Obit: Tony Goodacre Country/MOR singer (1938-2022)

Subject: Obit: Tony Goodacre Country Singer 1938-2022
From: GUEST,Rossey
Date: 24 Jun 22 - 04:45 PM

A stalwart of British country music of the old style has passed away, after a long battle with illness. Tony Goodacre rated mentions in a number of British music encyclopedias, and was known as Britain's 'Mr. Country Music' but has largely been forgotten due to the changes in country music and radio. In his heyday he toured all over the world and played many festivals. Tony had a huge variety of material in his repertoire, ranging from standard country to original songs and MOR/Folk/Pop classics.   He recorded and part published a number of songs written by my late father Stewart Ross (eg You've Made My Life Complete).

Tony ran his own record and publishing company, and did much to promote British country artists and song writers. He had retired some years ago, but would make occasional appearances at gospel festivals.

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Subject: RE: Obit: Tony Goodacre Country/MOR singer (1938-2022)
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 25 Jun 22 - 05:10 PM

Very sorry to hear that. I used to cross paths with Tony when I was trying to cut a dash on the Englisg Country music scene in the 1970's.

Tony was a really established act. He was always friendly, but we were from different eras. English country music at the time was stuck in a bit of w time warp.

He was a real gentleman, always friendly, always attired in perfect country music gear. He had a fine voice and played an Ovation guitar.
He'd been there from the skiffle era and even before and his presentation wa totally professional.

Subject: RE: Obit: Tony Goodacre Country/MOR singer (1938-2022)
From: GUEST,Rossey
Date: 26 Jun 22 - 04:40 PM

Thanks Big Al. It's slightly sad when a once well known figure of musical note gets a bit lost in the changes of music, particularly in the world of country. Back in the day BBC Radio 2 would play Tony Goodacre, and he recorded session material for 'Country Club'.

About 4 years ago a song my father wrote, which was recorded by Tony, was included in the background of an Australian TV detective drama 'Mystery Road', which was shown all over the world.   His approach to the song though was a bit dated, Gene Autry jingle jangle singing cowboy style, rather than torch ballad. It was still popular on easy-osey country request shows.

Tony recorded around 48 albums, many using recycled tracks - but was still recording up until Covid hit. He did do a lot to promote British writers and fellow country artists. using original material as well as covers.