All the latest news from

THE MERSEYBEATS

Copyright

Photo's, content, text and information provided on this site is for your personal view only.

You may not copy, download, reproduce from this site.

Any other use requires prior permission from the administrator.

for permission please contact

Jenny

Tel: 01264 323708  Mobile: 0781 064 5140

email: admin@themerseybeats.co.uk

I will keep you regularly updated with news from The Merseybeats, information, reviews & photographs will replace archive ones as they become available.

Jenny

January 31st

Below:

Butlins - Minehead

photos sent in from Toni Baker - (not sure of copyright origin)

Below:

Butlins Minehead

Review email & photos from a fan who was there!

Obviously THE MERSEYBEATS were one of the highlights.
We even queued up to see them in the venue downstairs (REDS) to get the front table which we hate to do !! So hope they appreciate it. They barely did 45 minutes but its true to say nearly all the bands did 45 minutes or even 40 minutes. Apart from a couple of exceptions.Your boys were great and the photos are very nice. I apologise for the head and arms that are in a couple of them. ITS ME !  Obviously it was a shorter set, so more like a solid silver tour type show. There were a lot of groans when TONY said we are nearly at the end of the show and we all looked at our watches in disbelief. There was a clock on stage would you believe and we were told it was so they did not overrun ! A barrier was put up at the side of the stage as some people wanted to get up and stand in front of the stage so they were stopped from that. Can't think why they would want to do that can you?  The Dakotas were on that afternoon so we saw Toni and Pete twice. We were disappointed THE MERSEYBEATS were only on once. The Animals, Dave Berry and The Dreamers were on twice. Well it was a good weekend and the surprise package was The Dakotas new singer. I am going to look him up in a minute. Had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand. Charisma in bucket loads. You can tell Toni if you speak to him. Great act. Also I went to see The Allstars as did not know who they are, and had a lovely surprise. Its Tom and Paul from Union Gap, Ray Martin from The Dreamers and Karl who organises these things with Ray.

A lot of fun.
ROSE

January 30th

With special thanks to Toni Baker (top left) The Dakotas

for sending me his review below, on the John Walker charity night, Arden Hall.

Congratulations to Toni, and The Dakotas who have worked tirelessly in perfecting three charity shows, in memory of the gifted and beautiful man,  and thanks to all the artistes and helpers who have given of their time in celebrating the music, the legendary voice, and wonderful memories of a dear and special friend.

John Walker

Arden Hall ... 
The final John Walker charity night at Arden Hall on thurs 26th Jan, was the best ever!  Special guests, Jog the Memory opened the proceedings, followed by the wonderful  Sandy Newman doing a solo unplugged set. A particular highlight was his amazing version of "Norwegian Wood".  Auctions and raffles followed - thanks to Tony Sherwood - auctioneer supreme! (we will let you know the final totals of moneys raised very soon) The Dakotas took to the stage next and delivered their usual varied fun set, with frontman Ronnie captivating the audience with his charm. Next up, Alan Lovell (Swinging Blue Jeans) joined the Dakotas in a set of great Rock n Roll classic hits. Tony Crane joined Alan & the Daks on stage and took everyone on a trip thru the Merseybeats' hits and also doing a stunning rendition of the Walker Bros "No Regrets". Next up, Geoff Turton (Rockin Berries) joined the throng and treated everyone to some wonderful classics like "Blackberry Way" and "Young Girl". With no more time, and a load more material still to be played,  it was getting closer & closer to the witching hour, so with the whole crowd still on their feet after "Rockin' all over the World", the night ended with the whole company coming back on stage to sing the Walker Bros classic anthem "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore". The show really couldn't have been any better, and to put the icing on the cake, John Walker's lovely wife Cynthia had flown in from California especially to be with us on this final show. She smiled through every minute of the whole evening, and we're so glad she was able to come and experience the amazing feeling of love in the room from everyone who was there especially for John.  Our special thanks go to Michael Troy Cartmell again for capturing the whole evening's events on camera: to Martin for organizing backline and all logistics: to Ann & Joy for looking after the raffle: to Tony Sherwood: to Lizz, Paul and gang for running the stage, lights and sound: and to Chris Beebee and family for arranging the venue and providing a wonderful backstage picnic!  And lastly, our thanks to YOU the audience, who came along to all 3 venues, to remember, and to celebrate the music of a legend, and a wonderful man - John Walker. 

Photographs below courtesy of Michael Troy Cartmell

Alan Lovell, Geoff  Turton, Tony Crane

Cynthia, wife of John Walker

with Geoff Turton, Tony Crane , Tony Sherwood, Sandy Newman, Alan Lovell

The whole Arden Team

January 29th

Available Now

60s SUPERGROUP CD

Featuring Twenty 60's Hits

" See our merchandise page for full details"

January 28th

'The All Star 60s Supergroup'

Gordon Craig Theatre - Stevenage

Not the best photography, but the photos show the excellent lighting effects

at the Gordon Craig Theatre.

WOW!  Yet again, the All Star 60s Supergroup excelled themselves, with an amazing production. 

My first visit to this theatre, what a splendid venue, excellent facilities, helpfull staff.

A brilliant auditorium, where a capacity crowd enjoyed a wonderful and entertaining evening, judging by the end of show ovation, the audience clearly didn't want to show to end.....nor did I.

24th January 2012

The legendary, Reg Presley from The Troggs announced his retirement today

As you all know I was taken ill whilst doing a gig in Germany in December. During my stay in hospital tests showed that in fact I have lung cancer. I am receiving chemotherapy treatment and at the moment not feeling too bad.
However I’ve had to call time on The Troggs and retire. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the cards and calls and for your love, loyalty and support over the years. A big thank you to Jackie for running the fan club and keeping you all up to speed, and a huge and special thank you to Chris, Pete and Dave.

I shall miss you all. Lots of Love

Reg.

Tony, Billy, Bob, Lou,

Tony Sherwood, John Foster and myself

would like to extend our thoughts,

and we're all hoping that Reg will be enjoying better health again soon.

23rd January 2012

'The All Star 60s Supergroup'

Worthing - 21st January

Excellent reports from the band on the Royal Leamington Spa, Buxton & Doncaster shows'

I attended the Worthing performance, sixth show on this tour.   Great to see these 60s icons, who have enjoyed phenomenal success throughout their musical careers, on top form at the Assembly Hall.  The chosen line up for the tour has worked out truly, splendid, Tony, Chip. Geoff, Toni & Pete working in quality musical unison.

Without doubt this tour is really one of the best 60s shows for sometime!

Looking dapper in black jackets, trousers, shoes, shirts, completed with red ties,

each individually announced before taking their places on stage. 

Their musical ability and harmonies are fantastic, everyone on stage working equally hard,

feel good 'sing-a-long songs' that ensure the audience go home having had a brilliant evening.

What I admire most about these legends on stage, is, not one is on an ego-trip,

each icon greatly respecting each others talents.  

The second half opens and sees the band more comfortably dressed in casual black shirts. 

All were so nervous on the opening night of the tour, now they are relaxed and thoroughly enjoying it!

There are two 'behind the scenes' men who must be congratulated for their extremely hard work, first Andy, the sound engineer, who is doing an absolutely amazing  job, the sound is faultless, and the smartness

of the stage monitors and equipment is very noticeable! John (pictured below) the full time sound engineer for The Merseybeats, working hard in all manor of tasks.

Chauffeur, helping Andy, to selling merchandise..........Oh nearly forgot, he is the show compere too,

and what a grand job he is doing!

I have been very impressed with the overall presentation of this tour

I am, quite honestly thrilled with it's success.

Notes & photos'  Website Administrator - Jenny Mussell

Below from Michael T Cartmell - Taken at Buxton

"Superb Photography"

Thanks Michael

4

16th January 2012

'The All Star 60s Supergroup'

The Atrix - Bromsgrove

Tony Sherwood

'show 2 on the tour'

A very impressive performance from the group, and quite definitely the best 60s show since ReelinandaRockin'

This Line-Up works very well together, you can see the results of all the hard work that has gone in to it.

"Robert Pratt the promoter has created a little gem"

The show has a terrific set list - real surprises, which will lift it out of the 'ordinary'

I always knew Tony was a great Guitarist , but now he has proved it beyond doubt.

Photo copyright of Jenny Mussell

14th January 2012

A triumphant opening night by

'The All Star 60s Supergroup'

Opening night of 'The All Star 60s Supergroup' Tour, at the Hampshire based, Concorde Club.

It was a team effort all round

lead vocalists

Tony Crane - The Merseybeats,

Chip Hawkes - The Tremeloes & Geoff Turton - Rockin' Berries

with Pete Hilton & Toni Baker - The Dakotas

singing timeless songs infused into a modern rock show

Opening the show with The Everly Brothers song 'Price Of Love'

the group waded through the vast repertoire of their hit recordings,

'Don't Turn Around'  'Poor Man's Son' 'My Little Lady'

'Mr Moonlight'  'He's In Town' 'I Think Of You'

and many more.... 

These legendary pop idols gave two set performances, starting at 9pm,

as well as their own hits, they performed many other hits from the 60's.

including

Geoff Turton with a fabulous version of Gary Puckett's 'Young Girl' 

Chip leading the group in the awesome Tremeloes hit 'Silence Is Golden'

Tony took the lead in a fantastic set of Billy J Kramer & The Dakotas hit recordings

'Little Children' 'Bad To Me'

All the group in an outstanding medley of Beatles hits

The show concluded with Tony taking lead in The Merseybeats 'Sorrow'

with a group grand finale

of

'Rockin' All Over The World'

This tour has been titled All Star SUPER GROUP

my conclusion.......they were exactly that....a SUPER GROUP!

A full list of tour dates can be found on our LIVE page

Review & Photo's Jenny Mussell

7th January 2012

Kingsley House Publishers, Home Close, Teffont, Salisbury, SP3 5QY

Telephone: 01722 716 268        

www.kingsleyhousepublishers.co.uk

THE BEAT monthly music magazine......have published a voting form in their January issue,

asking readers to Vote for their favourites in the following categories:-

Best Group , Duo or Trio 60s

Best Group 70s

Best Female Solo Artiste 60s

Best Female  Solo Artiste 70s

Best Male Solo Artiste 60s

Best Male Solo Artiste 70s  

I  am very confident THE MERSEYBEATS will do well in the

60s favourite list,

but to secure them the top place they deserve,

they would appreciate

your Votes

and

Tony Crane would appreciate votes to secure his rightful place as

Best Male Solo Artiste 60s

If you subscribe to this magazine, make sure you get your Votes in by

the closing date, March 26th.

1st January 2012

New Year's Eve in Jersey

The famous Gala Evening held at The Mayfair Hotel, Jersey

A 450 strong audience said good bye to 2011 with a sensational Gala Buffet,

and hello to 2012 with THE MERSEYBEATS live on stage.

A sensational show, and a memorable New Year.

Above Tony, Billy & Bob with Toni Baker & Pete Hilton from The Dakotas

We are pleased to 'borrow' from The Dakotas, not only Toni on keyboards, but also the services of our good friend Pete Hilton.  Pete is standing in for Lou, who is taking a short break away from the group to recover from surgery, following hospital treatment. 

Pete will be standing in until Lou returns sometime early in the New Year.

The Amazing Seafood Cascade at the Gala Buffet

....A Happy New Year 2012....

November 23rd

Rose & Ken Kneil's memories from Brean Sands

Yesterday Once More Sixties Weekend - November 2011

.... THE MERSEYBEATS on stage ....

'Girls Galore'

Photo Session.......with Rose

and another!     Photo Session.......with Rose

Mustn't forget photo's of the band!

The 60s Icons with Graham Hunter - Compere, Singer & Music Journalist

and below

Tony in performance

October 27th

Yesterday Once More

THE MERSEYBEATS in Torremolinos 23rd October 

Photographs taken by Rose & Ken Kneil

October 26th

I hereby want to express my heartily gratitude to you of my fantastic night at the Cavern and the 50 Anniversary for The Merseybeats. We, my wife and a Liverpool friend had a great time watching and hearing the enthusiastic and good moody band play all their good old numbers. I hope it won't be long before I can hear them again. I will certainly try to be at the Cavern 7 september 2012 to experience this show again.
I was also so lucky to meet Tony out in Mathew Street in the morning same day.

All the best.
Regards, a fan from Norway
Cavern Photo's courtesy of Terje from Norway

October 14th

Celebrating The 50th Anniversary

The Merseybeats, along with their guests, The Fourmost

played two venues last weekend, in the LIVE From Liverpool 50th Anniversary shows.

Traveling from Liverpool to the Isle Of Wight, and the Shanklin Theatre for their first show, which was brilliant!

Tony Crane particularly happy of they way the whole evening went. 

An overnight stay on the island, before traveling via ferry and road to Surrey, and Botley Hill Farmhouse.

This show, staged in a marquee went off extremely well,

"the venue and the enthusiastic audience made it feel more like a family party"

The Fourmost, have to one of the smartest 60's bands performing today'

Identically suited, with matching ties, was excellent presentation as was their performance.

Professionally executed, a slick crafted show of great music, inclusive of the bands 60's hit recordings

"Hello Little Girl" & "A Little Loving"

After a short break,

"the masters of merseybeat"

with Toni Baker on keyboards took to stage,

September 25th

A summary of recent shows!

"I Love The Sixties"

The Merseys

Suffolk - Boston - Stamford - Peterborough

In Billy's absence, Alan Lovell joined Tony on stage for this series of shows performing as The Merseys,

backed by Sounds Force 5.

Both Tony & Alan were on top of their game, like Tony, Alan was also playing a Gibson Firebird and both

really gave their all in entertaining the audience. 

Blackfriars Arts Centre, Boston

Stamford Arts Centre, Stamford

Henley In Arden

Tony Crane

Tony Sherwood attended the Henley In Arden gig on Saturday 17th, and reports: Although a little late in the year for an outside gig, the weather was reasonably kind!  Tony was backed by The NEW Dakotas line-up, and very good they were too!

Henley In-Arden

John Walker Benefit Show

Oldham - Uppermill Civic Hall

Billy joined Tony for this event, performing as The Merseys, backed by The Dakotas, in addition to the usual's

they did "No Regrets" and finished off with " The Sun Aint Gonna Shine"

"Terrific stuff that had the very big audience cheering"

The evening was a great success, and an auction on the night, a guitar with many named 60's autographs raised £700

for John & Cynthia's' charities. 

Other items - Framed LP. signed John Walker CD, a book written by John & Gary Walker raised more and added up to a very healthy contribution to the Charities.

September 14th

50th Anniversary The Cavern

"Nice photo of Lou"

September 11th

Tony & Billys 50th Anniversary 1961  - 2011

Tony & Billy's 50th celebration show with THE MERSEYBEATS at The Cavern Club, Liverpool, on Friday 9th September, was a fabulous sell-out event!  The Merseybeats performed two sets, travelling back in time to the early sixties for their first set, singing many of the songs they used to perform in the early days of their careers and many, many times in The Cavern.

Wonderful songs in their stock, sadly we never get to hear them perform enough these days!  

Including ....'Maybe Tomorrow' 'So Sad' 'Fortune Teller' 'Mr Moonlight' 'This Time'

"The second spot was their usual stage set, performed with a lot of energy"

So successful was the night, The Merseybeats will be making this an annual event

Note:  Friday 7th September 2012 for your diaries!

Cavern photo's courtesy John Foster, Road Manager to The Merseybeats

September 8th

Just a short up-date on news'

LIVERPOOL was in a party mood as 360,000  people flocked to enjoy the free Mathew Street two day Festival.

Claire McColgan, director for organisers Culture Liverpool, said: “Once again the Mathew Street Music Festival has proved to be one of the highlights of the city's events calendar for hundreds and thousands of people.
“The crowds flooded to the city centre and it was great to see so many families enjoy more than 60 hours of free live music and entertainment.”

The Merseybeats, appeared on Sunday 28th,

Tony's son Adrian joined on key boards, enthralling the thousands with a fabulous performance.

Tony Crane, said "the crowd was unbelievable" 

#

The celebrity interview with Tony in Cheshire Life, the North-West best life style magazine, was generally very good,

there were a couple of error's, one has been brought to my attention, and I would like to clarify, that Tony did NOT say he was the only original member left, which the interviewer got completely wrong, and has apologised for!

  Our Billy is of course, is an original member too!  Talking of Billy, he is now fully fit after operations on both his knees.

#

Tony has been invited to perform with other 60's artists in a series of shows called "All Star 60's" 

full details & diary dates can be found on the LIVE page. 

Tony is always keen to accept new challenges and is looking forward to working with

Chip Hawkes, Geoff Turton & John Coughlan. 

#

And last but not least.....IT'S PARTY TIME THIS FRIDAY....

WHEN TONY & BILLY CELEBRATE 50 YEARS IN MUSIC

with their show at The Cavern, Liverpool

12th August

Celebrity Interview

in Cheshire Life Magazine

Via introduction from a beloved fan, to the Editor of Cheshire Life, that it is the eve of

Tony Crane's forthcoming 50th Anniversary in music,

and that he, the founder of the group, The Merseybeats, lives on the Wirral.

Cheshire Life, the North West Magazine of the year, took a great interest in this amazing story, spending time & interviewing Tony at his home, the finished article will be appearing in the September issue.

(Please note: The above cover is their August issue)

7th August

The Dakotas & Friends ~ John Walker Tribute Shows

There are 3 tribute shows to John Walker

24th September Oldham - Uppermill Civic Hall

"TONY CRANE will be a special guest on this show"

....see our LIVE Page for more details....