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18 Oct 06 - 05:39 AM (#1861982) Subject: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu Although I was brought up right on the outskirts of Brum, I wasn't born there (we moved there when I was two) and was forced to move away when I was sixteen. I still consider myself a dyed-in-the-wool Brummie though. Brum still feels like home in a funny sort of way (although it's changed beyond all recognition in many places), and Brummie culture feels right to me. Am I right or self-delusional? Up the Villa! |
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18 Oct 06 - 05:45 AM (#1861986) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Youm roight our kid :-) Glad there is one more Villa supporter besides myself on Mudcat :-) |
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18 Oct 06 - 06:06 AM (#1862001) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Villa fans are well known for being a bit rough. Up the Blues! |
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18 Oct 06 - 06:08 AM (#1862004) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Just gone off you Al LOL :-) Les |
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18 Oct 06 - 06:24 AM (#1862010) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Just pointing out a fact, Les. Villa Park is situated between strife torn Newtown and the demilitarised zone of Aston. Whereas St Andrews is not far from the gay comspolitan area of the Coventry Rd; the spa facilities and atmosphere of Ballsall Heath are at hand; plus a friendly welcome awaits all round the corner in the Irish pubs of Digbeth - where traditional music and dancing provides a lighthearted backdrop to much of the high spirited behaviour. |
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18 Oct 06 - 07:16 AM (#1862035) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener My Grandfather used to run a pub in Deritend (part of the Digbeth area) back in the 1920's. I have tried to find out info on the pub, but can't seem to come up with the info. The pub was called "The Sailors Return". Strange that - I have researched endlessly on the internet and the Central Library in Brum, all to no avail. May be somebody might help me there!!!! >>Whereas St Andrews is not far from the gay comspolitan area of the Coventry Rd; the spa facilities and atmosphere of Ballsall Heath are at hand; plus a friendly welcome awaits all round the corner in the Irish pubs of Digbeth - where traditional music and dancing provides a lighthearted backdrop to much of the high spirited behaviour.<< You do make it sound lovely Al LOL |
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18 Oct 06 - 07:31 AM (#1862044) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle well, it takes your mind off the football.... |
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18 Oct 06 - 09:23 AM (#1862109) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Dave Hanson How can al those Brummies have the same speech impediment ? it's not normal, someone should do a ' study ' eric |
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18 Oct 06 - 09:43 AM (#1862133) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Its the in breeding. When I left Birmingham I didn't go back very often. However many years later, I had to do an emergency vist to Brum, becuase my mother was pretty ill. I was living in Amsterdam then. I flew into Elmdon Airport and got the train from there to new Street. I had the shock of my life. There was this burly black porter, belting out some orders. I creased myself up in laughter becuase he had the broadest Brummie accent. When I left Brum, they all had West Indian/Jamaican dialects. So it was quite a culture shock to hear him speaking. It was nice to hear it though and I guess I could say he was well integrated. :-) Not sure if he was a Villa or Blues supporter though :-) |
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18 Oct 06 - 09:59 AM (#1862145) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu "Glad there is one more Villa supporter besides myself on Mudcat :-)" Heady days at the moment Villan! I went to my first Villa match for over 25 years in August, sat with me dad just above where we used to sit when we were kids, in the Trinity Road stand, close to the Holte End (to get the Villa ROAR in full effect). It was like coming home - walking down the road in my '82 cup winner's shirt without fear of some thug getting leery - approaching the ground on matchday in the crowd etc. And we beat Newcastle 2-0. Bostin! Can't stand the new Bull Ring though (the bronze sculpure is goo though). Wonder what they did with the big 60's style bull that was on the outside of the original? The Gas Stret Basin (a favourite of school trips) is all nice and clean now - what happened to the dead cats and muggers? Up the Villa! Right up the Blues! |
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18 Oct 06 - 10:09 AM (#1862154) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA I was born in Small Heath but got transported to Dublin at 6 months, came back when I was 4. I agree these Villa fans can be a bit dodgie, better class of Brummie up at St Andrews. We're now out in the sticks. Real Brummies are easy going and friendly - and I may add, proud of their accent. |
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18 Oct 06 - 11:20 AM (#1862225) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener I think I am a bit older than you Stigweard. 61 to be precise. I used to stand in the Aston end in 1956 (when ther wasn't a stand) with me claret & blue airraid shelter rattle. Watched Villa win the FA cup on Telly in 1957. That was luxery in those days :-) Cried my eyeballs out when they won. That was such a proud moment when Johnny Dixon held the cup aloft. We had just beaten the Busby Babes and that was some feat. Became a steward in the Trinity Road stand around 1966. Had to stop playing foorball myself, due to a serious eye injury sustained from playing football. That was a great time when Villa won the European Cup. I was living in Amsterdam and it was my wife's birthday and all her family had come round. 26th May. I had to watch the match on telly even though my mates had got a ticket for me. It would have been a divorce if I had gone. Been a bit in the doldrums since then. Lets just hope they are on the upward spiral now. I think the shopping centre is very nice now. |
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18 Oct 06 - 11:34 AM (#1862233) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Crickey! He's nearly a professional. I remember standing for hours for tickets for Blues v Man U in the late '60's, and then going with me big brother and dad to see the game on Thursday night. I think we lost ! I left Birmingham (from work) 17 years ago to have my son and really havn't been back to the city centre since, but we were in Birmingham the night the bombs went off. I worked at the Centre hotel opposite the underground pub on New Street. A night to forget I think. |
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18 Oct 06 - 11:48 AM (#1862243) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener The PA >>I left Birmingham (from work) 17 years ago to have my son and really havn't been back to the city centre since, but we were in Birmingham the night the bombs went off. I worked at the Centre hotel opposite the underground pub on New Street. A night to forget I think. << Wow, I have never forgot that night. My father worked at Lucas in Shaftsmoor Lane on nights. He got the bus from great barr to New Street and then walked to the bus station. he had just turned the corner out of New Street (where New Street station is) then bang. A minute or so earlier he would have been blown up. As it was, he lived to the ripe old age of 90. For the next 6 months, whenever I heard an Irish voice the hairs on the back of my neck stood on end. |
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18 Oct 06 - 11:50 AM (#1862247) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Roger the Skiffler ...As a boy I used to support the Villa but no longer- they never came to see me when I was bad. I've now lived outside Brum twice as long as I lived there. RtS |
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18 Oct 06 - 11:53 AM (#1862249) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener So its Ascot FC now RtS or maybe Reading FC LOL :-) |
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18 Oct 06 - 12:01 PM (#1862255) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu "Crickey! He's nearly a professional" LOL! Me, me dad and brother were on several Villa programme covers in the 70s when we were kids; I remember the picture being taken as we waited to go throught the turnstile at Trinity Road, and they used the same picture on more than one issue. I loved going to the Villa, but my abiding memory (apart from one bloke shouting "Little's too big for his boots!") is of the cold in Winter. We used to get the pink and devour the Villa news. Listen to Tony Butler's phone in on the way home. I still love me Bov too! |
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18 Oct 06 - 12:14 PM (#1862272) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Leadfingers Perhaps someon ought to find a venue for a Brummie Mud Gather - I am only 100 miles down the road , having left Small Heath more than fifty years ago !! |
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18 Oct 06 - 12:30 PM (#1862302) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Desdemona My mum grew up in Brum--Acocks Green, to be precise--during the 1930s & '40s (she was actually a GI bride, which is how I came to be born in the States); although she left there in the 1950s, I know she remains very connected to her sense of herself as being from Brum. Even now, on family visits, it's amazing how she'll slip right back; last summer we visited the National Trust back-to-backs, which was very like the house she (and my grandparents) grew up in, it was extremely evocative; anyone been there? It's well worth a look if you're ever in downtown Birmingham with nothing to do! http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-birmingham_backtobacks/ My children, on the other hand, always clamour for my cousin to do her astonishing rendition of 'Black Country'...now *there's* a dialect if you like (and BTW, the Black Country Living Museum is a pretty cool place, as well)! ~D |
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18 Oct 06 - 12:49 PM (#1862323) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener I reported the match twice for the Birmingham Mail plus photo's of me (can't remember who the reporter was) Got paid for doing it as well. So that makes you 51 LF :-) Another brummie. Good idea about a mudgather in Brum. Would Villa Park hold us all? Nice post there Desdemona. My Father was born in Acocks Green. The stories are coming out the woodwork, slowly, and more mudcatters admitting to beeing a Brummie :-) |
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18 Oct 06 - 01:53 PM (#1862370) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Don(Wyziwyg)T According to Jasper Carrott it's more a state of NO mind, but JC is a Brummie, so, if he,s right, what would he know? Working that one out makes yer head spin. Zeno's Paradox variant? Don T. |
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18 Oct 06 - 03:53 PM (#1862468) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Leadfingers Don - NEVER tell anyone from Solihull that they are from Birmingham !! And Villan - 51 ? I can REMEMBER being 51 !! |
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18 Oct 06 - 04:42 PM (#1862560) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu Acocks Green - is the Bowling Alley still there? Another favourite on Birthdays. I lived outside Solihull between Knowle and Dorridge. At our school we all thought of ourselves as Brummies, no doubt about that. Jasper was our hero - he talked about the places we lived in. His dog used to sit outside the Chinese chippy in Knowle apparently. We were all big Tiswas fans too. No way some suit in London would have thought that work of genius up (instead they came up with multi-coloured Swapshop - which was about as entertaining as dried mud). This is what they want! |
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18 Oct 06 - 05:02 PM (#1862582) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond I was born in 1952 in Balsall Heath, my Mum in Moseley Street, by Digbeth, so I guess its sort of like in the sound of bow bells in London - Im definately a brum. lots of family all over Birmingham, including Acocks Green Small Heath, Yardley, Sheldon, and out at Kings Heath, and even Rubery. I went to Tindal Street Primary School, followed by Waverley Grammar, before leaving for uni, and never went back, except to visit family. I once went out with a boy who supported Villa, and went twice to a match! but mostly I went ice skating at the Silver Blades ice Rink. and oh yes, I was intimately acquainted with those museum pieces - back to back houses!!! BD |
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18 Oct 06 - 05:55 PM (#1862643) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,ibo Yes,bring a brummie is a stste of mind,and i would never bring a brummie anywhere that didnt want one |
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18 Oct 06 - 06:21 PM (#1862666) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST |
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19 Oct 06 - 03:15 AM (#1862918) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Anyone remember Henrys department store. Seeing Father Christmas and Uncle Holly at Lewis's at Christmas. Waiting on the stairs for ages. The circus at Haymills. Weekend day trips to the Lickeys and the trams past the 'Austin'. The old BSA works at small heath and the 'original' Bull Ring market. My dads address when he was a boy began 'back of 36 ......' in Bordesley Green, that was truly 'back to back' A brummie gathering is a great idea. |
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19 Oct 06 - 04:12 AM (#1862943) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle I believe, in the 1930's, there was an ice cream factory somwhere between Erdington and and Stechford (on the 11 route) which (to the amusement of locals) advertised itself as being 'in the heart of the Warwickshire countryside'. Mind you, Erdington has apparently calmed down a lot since then - they say policemen used to patrol that area in groups of six. |
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19 Oct 06 - 04:31 AM (#1862954) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu Sledging in the Lickeys! I loved the old Bull Ring Market - we used to make a beeline for the toy stall when we were kids, and my mate's brother had a stall in the indoor section underneath the Bull Ring. We went watching wrestling in Digbeth Civic Hall. Ice sakating at the rink in Hob's Moat. Acocks Green used to be home to the the joke shop that supplied Tiswas. It was called Lynex I think and we'd badger my dad to take us up there on Saturdays. Anyone know if it's still there? My first gig was ELO at the NEC - Brumtastic! In 1986 it was the Heartbeat concert - a gathering of Brummie bands with George Harrison coming on for the finale. There was another charity gig at the NEC I went to a year or two after that, ELO Part II, Woody, Tom Robinson and Edwin Starr all played at it - I think it was in aid of aids charities. |
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19 Oct 06 - 04:50 AM (#1862974) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond PA said anyone remember Henrys department store. Seeing Father Christmas and Uncle Holly at Lewis's at Christmas. Waiting on the stairs for ages. The circus at Haymills. Weekend day trips to the Lickeys and the trams past the 'Austin'. The old BSA works at small heath and the 'original' Bull Ring market. yep sure do loved Lewis's altogether, but especially that queue to see Santa. and the annual Sunday School trip to the Lickeys. my sister worked at BSA. hated the new improved Bull Ring. I think it might be a good idea to get permission to have so many Brummies together in one place!!!! and are there any Brummies left in Brum?? BD |
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19 Oct 06 - 06:30 AM (#1863021) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Black Diamond - my dad was a motor cycle frame checker as the BSA, in the days when they lead the world in motor scramble, would have been in the early 50s. Digbeth Civic Hall: Remember seeing, Sonny Terry and Brownie McGee. The Mayfare Suite : Led Zep The Odeon : Pink Floyd amoungst others. All the in the early 70's. Remembers Carrotts joke about Spaghetti Junction and the 'Birmingham Crawl' - did that round the Sideslow Island this morning ! |
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19 Oct 06 - 06:41 AM (#1863024) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST "Is it a state of mind" More a catastrophic accident of birth. |
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19 Oct 06 - 06:44 AM (#1863026) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Yeh right - so where are you from. Is the Irish Centre still in Digbeth? |
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19 Oct 06 - 07:27 AM (#1863040) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Is there marmalade for tea...? |
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19 Oct 06 - 08:29 AM (#1863085) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,Harvey Andrews Brummie and a Blues man through and through! used to watch the Villa too in the days when footie was an entertainment and not a tribal madness. The musical play I wrote the songs for (script malcolm Stent) has been on five times in Brum, last time doing sell out business with Jasper Carrot and Dave Willetts ( who took over from Crawford in "The Phantom..") Could we get anyone from London agencies to come and see it? "Oh, that terrible accent!" was the response. One agent even suggested we re-write it in Cockney. However, it won't lie down and goes on tour for 9 weeks next September, mostly in the greater West Midlands, but it may escape farther. We'll keep right on to the end of the road with it and fight the prejudice against us as well as we can. Sometimes it feels like racism. Any road up,keep out a the 'orseroad, tek the busz, and I'll see ya rounf the back a Rack'ams. |
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19 Oct 06 - 09:57 AM (#1863180) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Harvey, any chance of it coming to that new theatre/arty sort of place in Bromsgrove? I think its called the Atrix or something like that, failing that can you do a mini version at Bromsgrove Folk Club. |
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19 Oct 06 - 10:05 AM (#1863189) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Harvey how is Malcolm Stent? I'd heard he'd had an operation. |
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19 Oct 06 - 10:28 AM (#1863211) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Did anybody remember the pelican (not sure if it was a pelican) with the glasses on, by snow hill station. Some opticians. That used to be our landmark when we came home on the bus from our grans in accocks green. The old man used to say "half way home" Harvey is a nice bloke, but I knew there was something wrong with him. Fancy being a Blues supporter LOL |
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19 Oct 06 - 11:24 AM (#1863252) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener I remeber well standing at the bottom of Lewis's taking hours to see Father Christmas. We must have been bonckers. Anybody ever work at GEC Witton in the 60's ? Leadfingers nowt wrong with your memory then :-) Anybody ever get to do net practice at Warwickshire Cricket Club in their indoor facility. Anybody remember Deadly Doug when he had a travel Agents in Witton ? Anybody dare to admit that they were involved in the Jamboree at Sutton Park ? Anybody ever go to the Roebuck in Erdington for the Jazz Club. Anybody used to know my dad who ran for Birchfield Harriers? Anybody used to watch the speedway at Birchfield harriers when Wacker Hunt was the superstar ? Anybody ever work with my twin brother building the Rotunda ? |
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19 Oct 06 - 11:34 AM (#1863262) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA They're turning the Rotunda into really, really expensive appartments. I remember the Birmingham Show at a park in Perry Barr? I think, and when Handsworth was safe! Steam trains at Snow Hill Station, and the Queens Hotel where the big shopping centre is now over the top of New Street Station. |
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19 Oct 06 - 11:43 AM (#1863276) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Does anybody know the name of the Roller Skating Rink, if my memory serves me right somewhere past Digbeth. I used to love roller skating there and was pretty good at it. |
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19 Oct 06 - 11:46 AM (#1863281) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle yes remember jazz at the Roebuck - trombonist Bob Brookmeyer. Also Rita Timmins country n western club on Fridays, and Dave Sampson's folk club. remember the explosion at Witton on the day Princess Anne got married. |
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19 Oct 06 - 12:00 PM (#1863297) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Villan it was the Silver Blades! Wish my dad was still alive he'd be on here himself !! Anyone go to the Boggery in the 70's! (Does that count as Birmingham - perhaps not) |
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19 Oct 06 - 12:58 PM (#1863368) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond nooooooooooooooooo the ice skating rink was called Silver Blades I learnt to skate there and went every Saturday for years. There was a roller ink futher out along the Stratford Road, or was it Warwick road, its been a long time!! and I cant remeber the name of the area either, although I used to go see my Aunt and Uncle there I used to go dancing on a Saturday night at The Rainbow Suite, tight in the middle of town. and PA my sister in law would have worked there in the 50s and 60s I think too!!! I used to set up my "Guy" at Bonfire Night time on the junction of Moseley Road and Vincent street, right outside the bus stop - a very good palace indeed! BD |
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19 Oct 06 - 12:59 PM (#1863371) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond ah it was by the Mermaid Pub = the roller rink |
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19 Oct 06 - 01:03 PM (#1863376) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Amos I don't know about Brummies but I think being a Rumsfeld is a sorry state of mind indeed. A |
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19 Oct 06 - 01:26 PM (#1863402) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener The silver blades - yes I think it was that one - where exactly was it. |
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19 Oct 06 - 02:04 PM (#1863436) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,harvey andrews To answer the questions. If Bromsgrove folk club will get in touch via my website www.harveyandrews.com we'll see what can be sorted, and malcolm has had a serious operation from which he has now fully recovered and is back to his usual top form. Thanks for the "nice bloke" Villan, but I never get involved in slagging off a City club. I honestly say if the Blues can't win it I hope the Villa do. That's how it was when I was a kid. I remember derby ganes with an integrtaed crowd and lots of good crack. It doesn't happen today because it's a different world and i think that's sad. as the play says; "We're all Brummies ain't we?" Anyway, here's the anthem I wrote for the show. MY FINE OLD CITY I WAS BORN AND RAISED TO LOVE MY FINE OLD CITY IT'S ALWAYS BEEN A JEWEL IN ENGLAND'S CROWN OUR TERRACED HOUSE CALLED HOME WAS LIKE A PALACE ONLY MINUTES FROM THE CENTRE OF THE TOWN NEIGHBOURS WERE ALL FRIENDS AND LIFE WAS EASY WITH BOYS OUT PLAYING FOOTBALL IN THE STREET GIRLS HAD HOPSCOTCH SQUARES DRAWN ON THE PAVEMENT AND THEIR MOTHERS KEPT THEIR DOORSTEPS NICE AND NEAT CHORUS AND IT'S MY PLACE, MY FOLKS, MY LIFE LONG MY JOY, MY LOVE, MY LIFE'S SONG THE SOUND OF BELLS ON SUNDAY FROM ST MARTIN'S THE BULLRING ALWAYS BUSTLING WITH ITS NOISE PROUD NELSON STEERING US THROUGH STORMY WEATHER AS WE LAUGHED WITH ALL THE CHEEKY BARROW BOYS AND IT'S MY PLACE, MY FOLKS, MY LIFE LONG MY JOY, MY LOVE, MY LIFE'S SONG I WAS BORN AND RAISED TO LOVE MY FINE OLD CITY IT'S ALWAYS BEEN A JEWEL IN ENGLAND'S CROWN SO IF YOU CALL THERE'LL ALWAYS BE A WELCOME FROM US BRUMMIES WHO WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN AND IT'S OUR PLACE OUR FOLKS, OUR LIVES LONG OUR JOY, OUR LOVE, OUR LIFE, .. OUR LIFE'S... SONG |
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19 Oct 06 - 02:04 PM (#1863437) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Desdemona LOL--"never tell someone from Solihull that they're from Birmingham"--'struth! Oh, my, but it *is* a small world, innit?! My kids & I spend a couple of weeks every summer with our cousins in Dorridge; they used to live in Knowle but moved a few years back---aren't the property values shocking around there (and *I* live near Boston!)? Anyway, the curry from Lloyd's in Knowle is the *best*, and there's that very good Chinese take-away right near the train station in Dorridge...some good pubs in the area as well. My whole family on my mum's side started out in Acocks Green and Yardley; some are still there, some have only moved away as far as Sutton Coldfield, while one auntie is now ensconced in Henley-in-Arden, which is a long way from Dolphin Lane! But there certainly is that certain ineffable "something" about being a Brummie, isn't there? My parents talk about the old Bull Ring in the '40s; I only knew it in its rather hideous '70s shopping mall incarnation, but they've improved things since then, and done some nice things down by the canal now. I was just at the art museum last summer for the first time in donkey's years, and it was just fabulous; gotta love those pre-Raphaelites! ~D |
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19 Oct 06 - 02:30 PM (#1863458) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: eleanor c OK well I'm from Solihull but usually tell people I'm from Birmingham ( where I went to school) - parents still live there. I Worked at the Westley Arms Carvery restaurant in Acocks Green then at the American Food Factory in the centre of town. Anybody ever go to Musical Exchanges near Snow Hill? in the 80s it was one of the best guitar shops ever. I guess it's gone?? |
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19 Oct 06 - 02:42 PM (#1863476) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle yeh I bought my first electric guitar at the Music exchange - an antoria telecaster copy - 2nd hand £45. I remember there was great excitement in the shop that day as they had just managed to part company with a sitar that had been in the window for about three years. |
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19 Oct 06 - 04:51 PM (#1863575) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener I don't mind either Harvey, so long as we don't lose to the Blues. :-) I do agree with you, it isn't the same anymore. I can remember when you could mix with the other sides supporter and everybody would have a nice laugh and joke. It is a shame those nice days aren't here anymore. I used to go to a club under the arches of Snow Hill Station, where I saw groups such as John Mayall (Just after Clapton left and Peter Green came in) & Brian Augur and Judy Driscoll (Wheels on fire). Did anybody else go there? Also saw Tom Jones with his band (who in those years were absolutely brillaint) live in 66 at a club down by Digbeth, but can't remember the name of the club. When I left Birmingham in 72 to work in Scotland, I threw a do at the Opposite Lock for all my mates and work colleagues. About a hundred there. Is it still open ? |
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19 Oct 06 - 05:15 PM (#1863602) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,harvey andrews The Metro? Under Snow Hill. They had a folk club there too which I played often. The Eagle, Hill Street, had a Blues club run by young Spencer Davis who was a student then I think. The Holy Ground folk club in a pub at the back of the hall of memory,Irish based, where we sang rebel songs not really knowing their provenance and thinking they were history anyway. History later proved us wrong. MacDonalds folk club at the Australian bar Hurst Street, so named as a slap in the face to the Campbells and the Jug Of Punch folk club. I think the residents were dissident rejects from the Jug. Oh it was a ferment, a hotbed back them I tell you. Passions were high and we were young!!! |
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20 Oct 06 - 01:36 AM (#1863900) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener The Metro - thanks Harvey. I didn't realise that it operated a folk club as well. >>MacDonalds folk club at the Australian bar Hurst Street, so named as a slap in the face to the Campbells and the Jug Of Punch folk club. I think the residents were dissident rejects from the Jug.<< They just weren't able to sing new song each time, like a certain young Mr Andrews :-) >>Anybody ever go to the Roebuck in Erdington for the Jazz Club. << Well a very young student called Spencer Davis used to sing for now't in the interval - what did he sing - why Lonnie Donegan songs of course. He almost turned me off Lonnie Donegan :-) Harvey - you might know this one. At the age of about 15 when I started work, I never got to see anything of Steve & Muff Winwood who were neighbours (well 100 yards away) after that. Played football with them and went to same youth club etc. I knew of Specer Davis's existance through the Roebuck, but was really surprised when Steve & Muff joined up with Spencer Davis. Did that come to fruition through the Jug of Punch or The Eagle. It always intrigued me how they got together. Steve & Muff played skiffle at the youth club, and I know from what you told me, that Steve played at the Jug of Punch. Sounds like a daft question but with your wealth of knowledge and finger on the pulse on the scene at that time, thought you might just know. |
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20 Oct 06 - 04:24 AM (#1863944) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond The Silver Blades was (and still is I think) right in the centre of town, and I used to go to The Jug o Punch Folk Club, where I was very impressed by The Ian Campbell Folk Group and their young fiddle player Dave Swarbrick - you might have heard of him, and Mr Dunkerley on banjo (I cant remember his first name , was it Brian) was enough for a youg girl to die for. BD |
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20 Oct 06 - 06:03 AM (#1863996) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,harvey andrews As far as I know, Steve Winwood never played at the Jug. They started at the Eagle. It was John Dunkerley, who eventually left the Campbell's and we formed a duo for one year before he sadly passed away. |
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20 Oct 06 - 06:11 AM (#1864001) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Leadfingers I missed out on a lot of 'night life' in Brum , 'cos I left when I was eleven ! We passed through on the canal a year or so back , and I was intrigued to see The Ackers Country Park - Where we used to go in between collecting Engine Numbers behind the Labour Exchange and the Bombed out Sweet Factory at the top of Malmesbury Road ! And the Tram out to The Lickeys for an afternoon in the country !! |
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20 Oct 06 - 06:25 AM (#1864008) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST Boys playing football - jumpers for goalposts |
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20 Oct 06 - 06:41 AM (#1864017) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Cricket 'Stumps' in chalk (nicked from school) on lamp posts! Milk delivered down Green Lane Small Heath by horse and cart, the horse knew exactly where to stop! |
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20 Oct 06 - 06:46 AM (#1864020) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu The Pelican - was that the pub? We used to go there because we could get served, and they did Hedgehog crisps too. They used to have discos there on Friday nights that every creed and colour went to. You'd have Hassidic Jews dancing next to Sikhs, Hindus and Muslims and all the usual inner city crowd in the corners and propping up the bar. It was a real melting pot that reminded me of the Cantina scene in Star Wars for all it's colour and diversity. There was never any trouble and it was wonderful. The curry house in Knowle when I lived there was called the Elora, but the place has changed so much in many ways - many of the old pubs have gone, although the Greswolde was still there last time I looked. Does anyone remember the curry house on the Stratford Road called The Shirley Temple (cause it was in Shirley - geddit?)? |
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20 Oct 06 - 07:25 AM (#1864044) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Yeh, I remember the Shirley Temple, is it still there. Anyone remembr 'Mothers' in Erdington, and the music shop in Hurst Street. I think it was called Wasp. There was a massive painting of a Wasp on the wall, caused loads of complaints cos they said it would distract drivers and cause an accident. And when Broad Street was a shopping area, then it went over to selling textiles and every other shop was Asian, selling clothes and household linen and stuff. Not a bar or club in sight. Any Roy Harper at the town hall and most of Led Zep sitting in the audience and the banter back and forth between them and Roy on the stage. I wish I could print off the whole of this thread and keep it for ever. |
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20 Oct 06 - 07:38 AM (#1864057) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Thanks Harvey PA you can print the thread out. If you make sure you are at the top of the thread, you will see above the thread heading an option that says Printer Friendly. Click on it and you will have a printable version of the complete thread. I am assuming you don't mean that you haven't got a printer. Its a lovely thread and brings back many memories |
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20 Oct 06 - 08:01 AM (#1864073) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Thanks for that Villan, yep I've got a printer. Really wish Dad was still alive, we had loads of conversations like this about the war and living in Brum in the oldie days. Have a good weekend all and thanks to all who've joined in (eventhough it wasn't my thread) |
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20 Oct 06 - 09:05 AM (#1864140) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,Mr (Black country an' prod) Red Dear stigweard Dillousional is not the word. Brummie is definitely a state of mined. Just don't tread on the detonator. |
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20 Oct 06 - 09:18 AM (#1864155) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu "There was a massive painting of a Wasp on the wall" This is ringing a bell with me. When would this have been - in the 70's/early 80's? Anyone remember Midland Ed, which I think was on Corporation Street? I spent hours wandering around in there. What about the shopping centre in Sheldon? Reddington's Rare Records? |
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20 Oct 06 - 09:32 AM (#1864182) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Roger the Skiffler Actually all my class at school supported the Villa except one B'ham City supporter who we treated with ridicule. My dad, at 90 has always been a Baggies supporter though- triumph of hope over experience. His solution to the decline in English footballl is simple(!):no more foreign players, bring back the maximum wage (Jimmy Hill should have been hung drawn and quareterd!), make baggy shorts, centre partings and Brylcreem compulsory! |
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20 Oct 06 - 10:31 AM (#1864248) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Eh up some photies Birmingham Buses Anybody go on one of these LOL I remember this place very well. The local bonking site. Barr Beacon Have a look at this video. Not the best of film, but should stir a few hearts. Notice the real Birmingham accent. :-) The old bullring The redevelopment in the 60 of the bullring. Once again quality of video not great, but interesting. Listen to the Brummie passion of the presentor Revamp of Bullring Have a listen to these Part 1 Part2 Part3 |
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20 Oct 06 - 10:35 AM (#1864250) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Absolutely, they should have a dress code in folk clubs as well - aran jumpers and acne. a mate of mine used to teach Stevie Winwood Art at Great Barr Comp. Nice to hear John Dunkerley's name again. he was an ace accompanist. |
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20 Oct 06 - 10:41 AM (#1864255) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Does he remember the uproar when Steve left Great Barr Comp - Al? |
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20 Oct 06 - 04:24 PM (#1864548) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: eleanor c Oh I remember the Midland Ed. and '80s nightclubs called Faces and Xanadu which had paper mache Easter Island statues and glo in the dark flowers on the ceiling. My Musical Exchanges axe was a Les Paul copy, £85. Reddington's , yes. Most of my records came from stalls in the Rag Market - one day I found all the Grateful Dead's albums in a big box and bought the lot, very hard to carry 'em all home on the train. |
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21 Oct 06 - 06:24 AM (#1864944) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Black Diamond to Guest Harvery Andrews sorry to hear that about John Dunkerley, who sadly passed away. I would never have used those words I did about him if I had known that. I loved his banjo playing and I remember a lovely smile in a round happy face. I certainly do remember Midland Ed I spent many happy hours there wandering round wishing I could buy something!! I used to catch the no 49 and no 50 bus into town, and Im sure there were some of those single deckers when I was very young (in the 50s) and I seem to remember the stir of the first double deckers but memory can play tricks! my grandparents family all lived at Weoley Castle by the cemetry and me and my older brothers had to walk past it to visit them. I well remember them scaring me with tales of the dead rising when little girls went past!!! dont you just love older brothers. BD |
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21 Oct 06 - 07:54 AM (#1864968) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle No my mate was only at Great Barr a year. |
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21 Oct 06 - 08:08 AM (#1864979) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener From my memory now, he dropped out of school at 14 which caused uproar. He proved em wrong though and has gone on to earn a lot of dough, I would think. |
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21 Oct 06 - 08:29 AM (#1864987) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle The 70's was really myperiod when I went round lots of folk clubs in Brum and environs My first floorspot was the Station in Sutton Coldfield There was midnight at The Rep The Campbells who moved from Digbeth to Hurst Street the Blackthorne at Coleshill Nuneaton Arts Centre The corner House, Bulkington The THree Barrels, Ampersand The coach and Horses, Castle brom The Harvesters at The Boldmere, Sutton The Fitters Arms, and Andy cavens place at Walsall the prince of Wales tamworth the Star at The Communist Club on the Rigway The Old crown, Digbeth The Prince of Wales , Digbeth Bob Lines Clubs - The Beggars Bush and The Manor in Sutton the Roebuck in erdington Drowsy Maggies Club in Bournville the Lion, wolverhampton the Hare andHounds, Kingsheath Probably some I'm leaving out. |
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22 Oct 06 - 07:51 AM (#1865551) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,Shimrod Reading this thread at least convinces me of one thing - there are bloody football fans everywhere - why don't you all piss off and form your own country? Then the rest of us might get a bit of peace! |
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22 Oct 06 - 08:13 AM (#1865560) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Mr Red What about the Grey Cock Folk Club? And the Cannock and Lichfield clubs run by a colleague at W& T Avery in Walsall. Then there was the Bush in Pelsall run by Baz Yates - Oh I remember the Pigsty Hill Light Orchestra one night - that was before CHris Newman joined them as part of a trio. And Wheatsheaf in Walsall - saw Martyn Wyndham-Reed sing a few sheep-shearing songs (about 60% of 'em as I remember). And what about Dave Sampsom's attempt at a Folk Club in Erdington in the 70's - PHLO again when Dave was annoying the artistes so the three de-bagged him on stage. The best laugh of the night. Of course I am only 29 now.............................. |
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22 Oct 06 - 08:31 AM (#1865569) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Yes of course the grey cock who had Charles Parker, think Radio Ballads rather than Yardbird, involved at some level or other. That was the place where they enquired my influences at the door - I was stuck for an answer but said, Ralph Mctell - the fisherman's smock selling tickets said very superciliously - sorry we DO have to draw the line somewhere....they booked decent guests though - I saw Peggy and Ewan there a few times. Are you say, The Old Crown in Bore Street Lichfield - run by a guy called Richard and somebody else playing the accordion. The Fighting Cocks in Moseley run by poet Nic Toczek. The guy from Magic lantern had a club somewhere Black Country side of the city. There was The Globe in Tamworth for a while. The Rose and Crown, Wolverhampton. as you say The Cannock club run by Laurie (sorry the name's gone!). His wife used to sing. I'm sure there must be some I've left out ... Of course.... The Boggery! Dave Sampson had rather better than an attempt at The Roebuck in Erdington. he booked Capstick, Brimstone, Waterfall, Jeremy Taylor....all the usual suspects! |
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23 Oct 06 - 03:10 AM (#1866228) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Spoke to my brother over the weekend, he's been in the music business almost all his life. The music shop in Hurst Street was called Wasp. Did anyone go to the free concert in Cannon Hill Park 69/70ish. Remember when the Oasis market opened. Was that at the top of Corporation Street?? |
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23 Oct 06 - 03:30 AM (#1866234) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: autolycus Stigweard, Re your original question,you're neither right nor self-delusional. The way you feel is the way you feel,it's your truth. Brummie culture feels right - that's just a fact. Ivor |
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23 Oct 06 - 04:10 AM (#1866251) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Stigweard, sorry I have only just picked up on this one. The Pelican - was that the pub? No it wasn't a pub. It was a big advertising feature in those days presumably above an opticians. From my memory, it could be seen just as you came round the corner by Snow Hill Station in the direction of Great Barr. It may not have been a pelican, but certainly some bird with a pair of glasses on. It was most noticable at night, due to it being illuminated. I suppose I was about 8 - 10 years old then which would have put it around 1955. Blimey now that does make me feel old :-) |
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23 Oct 06 - 05:08 AM (#1866271) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle I see, and has this pelican troubled you much of late...? If so, it might the pressure of work..... |
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23 Oct 06 - 05:19 AM (#1866281) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Hello Doctor Al :-) |
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23 Oct 06 - 06:02 AM (#1866295) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Just to trying get to the roots of why you wear a kilt and dance the can can in windy places... |
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23 Oct 06 - 06:38 AM (#1866313) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Stu Hmmm, I think the pub called the Pelican was closer to New Street Station then, under the flyover. |
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23 Oct 06 - 07:35 AM (#1866332) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: The PA Anyone remember Henry's Blues House, bottom of Hill Street. Can't remember the name of the pub, real dodgie place downstairs but the music upstairs was brill. Could only go with my big brother and his mates cos the place looked so rough! |
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23 Oct 06 - 08:02 AM (#1866349) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle Clubs came and went. there was one called Prohibition at Dale End. Malc Stent had a residency there. Also I forgot to mention Derek Grinell's club in Edgbaston - The Bell and Pump. |
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23 Oct 06 - 09:36 AM (#1866423) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,Mr (nostalgia is not wot it used to be) Red Oh! the Old St Phillipians - eh? I remember 1812 there one night. And the Boldmere in Sutton Cfield. And the Gifford Arms in W'ton. Saw Gerry Lochran there with Rod Daws accompanying him - and Muckram Wakes. Ron Taylor, who part ran the club, is down here now in Gloucestertshire. - Oh! and wot was the the name of the big pub on the Dudley Road that had a regular club? Got the name of "Rainbow" on my brain! - saw Labbi Sifri - went there with Pixie (it's a long story). |
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23 Oct 06 - 09:51 AM (#1866440) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST "Ship and Rainbow" according to a Raymond Froggat Fan |
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01 Nov 06 - 10:34 AM (#1873850) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,iggy Well hello from sunny Acocks Green. Am amazed to find this thread on a US site. Mind you, Brummies and Americans have a lot in common. Most of us are from somewhere else originally. Anyway if you aren't near the city is doing fine though I can't say anything about the folk clubs as I haven't played in ages. The last gig I went to was Alison Krause at the Symphony Hall which is an amazing venue acoustically and you can order your interval drinks in advance! Still not a patch on the old Town Hall which they are still debating about as regards restoration. I remember Roy Harper appearing at the Pentangle gig in 60 something and seeing him at Mother's too. Used to be a regular there in the late 60's so I got to see a lot of fine performances including one by John Fahey. Used to get the yellow and blue /black last 11 from Erdington after midnight to the garage at Kitts Green. [BTW , the old routemaster that the WMPT take out is Yellow and Black. I'm not certain of dates but I can remember the colour of the buses. Please tell me I'm not wrong.] I grew up on the Meadway in the 60's and can remember when Musical Exchanges was Yardley's. It's now Sound Control. Got a 12 string in 65' from Yardley's. Warped neck made me sell it eventually but strengthened my fingers no end. Eventually got an Eko Ranger which my son plays now. Roy wood lived downstairs from us and the Spencer Davis Fan Club secretary lived opposite so we often shared a lift with one or more of them. Downstairs was a guy who eventually developed the LCD screen display. My brother gave him our first guitar so maybe he will see this site sometime. The city is always changing but it's a lot cleaner air than it was, the buses are more reliable and we are now the Balti capital of the world..apparently...We have no major brewery. Ansells and M&B disappeared into the maws of the new beerage and it's all alcopops and cider down Broad Street, [which has to be seen to be believed on a Saturday night]. Gigs come and go. Fortunately I got to play Ronnie Scotts and the much missed Fiddle and Bone and some of the other rock gigs around but I still miss the immediacy of the folk scene. I'll try a post again if the thread continues and try to answer if you have any questions. I don't get out much but my son gets around and I'll ask him Good Luck to you all |
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01 Nov 06 - 02:48 PM (#1874066) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Thanks for posting iggy. I don't know if you can find out if the pub called The sailors Return existed in Deritend, and if so, when it closed. Also I am trying to trace when my grandad ran it and when he stopped running it. I do know he wasn't running it after about 1930. Some 76 years ago. His name was Thomas Worrall I have tried very hard to get some info, but my only acheivement is that the pub existed. Don't worry if you can't. Cheers Les Worrall |
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01 Nov 06 - 05:02 PM (#1874182) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Big Al Whittle How about that Captain of the West Indies cricket team, was he a distant relation? |
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01 Nov 06 - 05:51 PM (#1874213) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Yu got it wrong pinky mon. :-) Sir Frank has his surname spelt differently - Worrell - a different breed. Oh to be as gifted as him. What a player. |
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01 Nov 06 - 05:52 PM (#1874214) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Has Brimmo been in touch WLD? |
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02 Nov 06 - 03:42 AM (#1874483) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST Villan re your grandads pub, I suppose you have tried contactng the local brewery's records perhaps they would have records of employees, local businesses, or the corporation records. Maybe Carl Chinn can help I think you can contact him through the university.I recently began tracing my family history and found that my great great grandad was from a place called Duck End in Essex. And there was me thinking I was a brummie, when I'm really an Essex girl - Ill just fetch me white stiletto's. Good luck. |
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02 Nov 06 - 05:03 AM (#1874508) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener Hi Guest (essex girl LOL) I have tried the pub route but no success. I also tried the central library in Brum, but they couldn't find anything. I haven't tried Carl Chinn - thanks for that. |
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02 Nov 06 - 07:40 AM (#1874566) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: GUEST,The PA Villan re the pub try this: carl@brummagem.fsnt.co.uk or 0121 414 6971. |
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02 Nov 06 - 12:38 PM (#1874827) Subject: RE: BS: Is bring a Brummie a state of mind? From: Rasener I have left a message for him PA. If he doesn't ring back, I will e-mail him. Thanks a lot |