The 10th Anniversary Prestatyn Soul Weekender Special
John Smith writes
With the 10th anniversary show fast approaching (10th – 14th March 2011), it’s the ideal time to look back on what has been achieved by the event so far. It seems like only a couple of years back that we were turning up for the first time to catch Ray Pollard, Tony Middleton, Shabazz and Gary Des’etages performing. But its obviously much longer than that, as a list of the acts that have graced the stages at the event quickly shows.
On the Northern Soul side of things there’s:-
Ray Pollard, Tony Middleton (as already stated), Gwen Owens, Lou Pride, Don Gardner, Baby Washington, Melvin Davis, Phil Perry, Cody Black, Bobby Hutton, Lorraine Chandler, Eddie Parker, Troy Keyes, Richie Pitts, James Bell, the Precisions, Nolan Porter, Lou Ragland, the Masqueraders, Donni Burdick, Dean Courtney, Dee Dee Sharp, Phillip Mitchell, Morris Chestnut, Roy Roberts, Pat Lewis, Gloria Jones, the Del Larks, Jerry Williams, the Volumes / Magnetics, Bobby Patterson, Eula Cooper, Lenis Guess, Benny Troy, Kenny Hamber, Sidney Barnes, Mary Love, Lovain Demps, the Hesitations & Ronnie McNeir.
Whilst the Modern Soul fans have also be spoilt, with Shabazz, Gary Des’etages, Ann Nesby, Lou Pride, Phil Perry, Adriana Evans, Melvin Davis, Barrington Henderson, the Masqueraders, Kenny Thomas, Meli’sa Morgan, Kathy Brown, Wade O Brown, Afro Elements, Pete Simpson, Melodious, Marcell & the Truth, Incognito, William ‘Smoke’ Howard, Kenny Bobien, Stephanie Cooke and Tortured Soul.
I make that 62 in all (if you count the acts that have appeared in both rooms twice), a truly impressive total for live acts. It has been a real pleasure hosting every one of these artists, but a select few just have to be singled out for a specific mention.
The ‘extra’ special ones include:-
The Precisions, who reformed especially to appear at Prestatyn in 2006 (& they’re still going strong today).
Bobby Patterson, who in 2009, celebrated his 65th birthday at the weekender.
The Volumes, who also turned out to be the Magnetics -- so we got two acts in one with them.
All the many artists making their UK debut at the event. Phil Perry was one and he not only performed in the Modern Soul room as booked, but also graced the Northern Soul stage for an impromptu performance.
Then there are the likes of Don Gardner, who found it hard to stay away after his first visit and Ronnie McNeir who went up on stage this March even though he had only dropped in for a quick reconnoiter of the weekender.
Most of the acts turned out to be really, really friendly people who greatly enjoyed the many hours they could spend in the company of Prestatyn attendees. All the Northern Soul acts have been more than pleased on returning to the stage to participate in the now familiar live show finale song. This ensemble number not only perfectly illustrates the great camaraderie that develops between the acts, but also presents some unique opportunities for the numerous photographers in the crowd.
Of course there are some regrets; since he played the weekender, we have lost Ray Pollard (he passed in 2005) and Lou Pride has had more than his fair share of medical problems in recent years. Our thoughts go out to them & theirs.
But suffice it to say, that just about every one (that is still able) would instantly accept an invite to return to play the weekender again. This speaks volumes for the ‘friendly atmosphere’ that pervades the Prestatyn Sands Holiday Centre for every soul weekender.
But the weekender is not just about the live main acts. There are all the many DJ’s who spend hours keeping the dance floors full and providing the shows that go out on Channel Six Radio. The record bar & merchandise sellers who tempt people into buying soul goodies of every kind. All play their own part in making the weekender what it is. Of course everything doesn’t just drop into place by chance. Many hours have to be spent ahead of and during the event to ensure things run so smoothly. The Midnight Hour crew and other production team members keep on top of such matters and deal with the many anticipated & unscheduled occurrences that unfold every year. Indeed there is a very large ‘behind the scenes’ team and without them things could quickly go amiss. One set of people that deserves a specific mention are the numerous backing musicians and singers that have provided the excellent support behind the headline acts during each live show. The Modern Room stage is manned by the best outside people that can be hired, whilst the Northern Room stage team is a more ‘in-house’ assembled ensemble. This gang has evolved greatly down the years but is in general held together and directed by the likes of Bernie O’Brien and Carl Barnet. These days, the regular backing singers are Joe Ankrah & Claire Pilling, who always provide first class vocal support to each of the front-line artists. The artists themselves also get directly involved with other aspects of the weekender, the judging of the dance competition being the prime example of this. In fact, all the artists who have performed at the event have numerous lasting memories.
To quote just a few ………
Kenny Hamber ……“I just had to come over to the UK to check out the Northern Soul scene there. I first turned up at Prestatyn in October 2009 to learn what the scene was all about and to network. I returned to perform in March and it was just so exciting. The people were all so friendly (both on & off stage), so welcoming and knowledgeable. It’s sad that I had to leave the USA to feel that important. All I can say is that the warmth & hospitality I was shown was Top 10”.
Lou Ragland …. “I'd been to the UK before my trip to the weekender so already knew what to expect from UK soul fans. The weather in Wales wasn't exactly the same as that back in Vegas, but the warmth of the crowd more than made up for the temperature. The whole event was so professionally run. The backing band was great and so the rehearsals and show went just like clockwork. The acts worked hand in hand to ensure everyone felt at home and so we were able to give of our best. When we were on stage, the reaction of the crowd confirmed that things had been done just right. Whoever first thought of holding this event, had such a great idea. What a venue, what an atmosphere. I can't wait to come back again. Peace and music; take care”.
Bobby Patterson ….. The highlight of my life was when I did my birthday party in Prestatyn, Wales back in March. I really enjoyed that “.
George Hendricks (of the Hesitations) …… In March 2010 The Hesitations had the pleasure and honor to perform for many UK fans; it was an experience that we will never forget. From the first e-mail asking if we’d be interested in appearing to the weekender’s last night party it was wonderful …. that included everything in between. It was also a pleasure working with Bernie and the band, everything was very professional. We had been a little worried since we have gotten used to working with our own band but we were more than happy with the way things went. The entire staff was awesome and gave us the Royal treatment the whole time that we were there. It was obvious that this was a great group of people and every artist was made to feel right at home. We were always treated with lots of respect.
Marc Evans …. ''It was wonderful to be a part of an event that celebrates classic & modern soul music, the artists, and the culture'.
I’ve just about concluded this look back on the history of the weekender, but I couldn’t finish without making mention of a major element in its continuing success; the audience. These knowledgeable and enthusiastic regulars turn up each year to complete the picture. Without them there would be no weekender. day and night, rain and shine, they’re around. Meeting & greeting old friends, chatting & dancing, eating & drinking. Putting up banners to announce their location; taking photographs and getting autographs. They treat the acts with great affection and are the glue that holds the whole thing together. The Midnight Hour weekender wasn’t the first UK Northern Soul weekender by any means. But since its commencement back in 1992, it has established itself as just about the biggest and best event on the British Northern & Modern Soul scene. I could even go as far as to say that it has become a classic function that truly helps to celebrate the phenomenon that is the UK soul scene.
Fish writes
PRESTATYN 10TH ANNIVERSARY - MODERN SOUL
Who would have thought over 10 years ago, that a little town on the North Wales coastline would grow into the largest 'Northern & Modern' soul weekender in the country in a relatively short space of time ! - well indeed it has and we're delighted to be able to celebrate this landmark 10th Anniversary weekend with you.
It certainly hasn't been smooth sailing all the way however - with external politics and jealousies playing a continual part during that time. And the announcement at the end of last October that Pontins had gone into administration - thankfully that concern is all behind us now with the recent acquisition of the company by the Britannia Hotel's chain, and we can now turn our thoughts again to giving the the BEST VALUE for money weekender we can possibly offer with a stunning line-up of live acts and a simply un-rivalled selection of the countries top dj's across all five rooms in operation this weekend.
Also I think we've come along way in terms of technical specifications over that time, with top notch sound systems in all rooms - I'm sure you'll agree !
From a 'Modern' perspective we're very proud of the acts we've managed to bring over since the events inception back in 2001 with debut UK shows for PHIL PERRY, MARCELL & THE TRUTH, BARRINGTON SCOTT HENDERSON and WADE O BROWN + the first ever full live concert for KENNY BOBIEN & STEPHANIE COOKE. Other quality acts to have graced us with their presence over that time for live concerts include ANN NESBY, MELI'SA MORGAN, ADRIANA EVANS, INCOGNITO, TORTURED SOUL, AFRO ELEMENTS & TONY MOMRELLE. Plus some fine PA's too from SHABAZZ, GARY DES'ETAGES, HEADQUARTERS, PETE SIMPSON, KATHY BROWN, KENNY THOMAS, MARC EVANS, WILLIAM 'SMOKE' HOWARD, LOU PRIDE etc.
This year we have another exceptionally high quality package of live acts - all performing full concerts for you with backing band.
Friday night see's the revered Mr JESSE JAMES take to the stage for a 14 song performance of all his career hi-lights including 'If You Want A Love Affair', 'Cheatin' In The Next Room', 'I Can Do Bad By Myself', 'You Oughta Be Here With Me' plus the brilliant previously unreleased 'You Gave Me Love With An 'A' Plus'.
Late Saturday afternoon COOL MILLION make their worldwide debut appearance as a full live band showcase and with one of the biggest albums of last year under their belts, this is a show you simply won't want to miss.
The two 'Modern Soul' rooms themselves are being structured a little differently this time too, with a brief run down as follows to help you plan your weekend -
ALL THAT LEAVES ME TO SAY IS - HAVE AN ABSOLUTLEY BRILLIANT TIME AND THANK YOU FOR YOU UNRELENTING SUPPORT OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS - LONG MAY IT CONTINUE ! : - ))
FISH
Carl Webster from Starpoint Radio writes
STARPOINT RADIO @ PRESTATYN - Sunday Afternoon - ARENA 2
Now in it’s 26th year, Starpoint Radio continues to deliver a dynamic blend of classic and contemporary soul, boogie, jazzfunk, R&B and soulful house, 24/7. Amongst the weekly schedule you’ll find some of the UK’s most celebrated and talented DJ’s and presenters including Colin Curtis, Ian Dewhirst, Mark Randle, Bob Smith, Paul Goldsmith, Bigger, Terry James, Chris Box and Dimitry Soul.
Starpoint Radio also hosts the UK Soul Chart. Presenter JL delivers a weekly run down of the latest soul releases and is often joined for a chat by the people who make the music we love.
To tune into the station simply go to www.starpointradio.com or if you own an iPhone or android mobile phone listen through your radio app.
The Sunday afternoon session at this 10th anniversary weekender will feature a special Starpoint Radio showcase in the Arena 2's Modern Soul room that will also be broadcast LIVE with DJ's – Colin Curtis, Mark Randle, Ian Dewhirst, Chris Box, Paul Goldsmith & Dimitry Soul.
Ten Memorable Years
It seems hard to believe that we have reached the real landmark of our 10th Anniversary, the saying “doesn’t time fly when your having fun” really does apply to helping to organise what has become one of the scenes biggest events on a yearly basis.
Was really that long ago since Ray Pollard and Tony Middleton graced the stage at our very first event?
The attendance for the event was around the 800 mark. The event has certainly grown since then and many changes have been implemented.
Looking back at some of these it would be true to say that Prestatyn has indeed influenced the shape and format of weekenders that have followed.
The introduction of “Soul Night Showcases” at our second event gave the opportunity for many clubs throughout the UK to have a platform to promote their own venues.
The Saturday live shows in the Northern Arena being a “Showcase” where a number of artists would appear on the night performing the material that we all knew and therefore didn’t preclude artists who only had one or two numbers.
The introduction of the Free Thursday night pre event party some 5 years ago gave people the opportunity to avoid the traffic on the traditionally busy Friday and also provided the chance to extend their weekends entertainment.
The line up of artists is just unbelievable, who would have believed that we would finally have a chance to see these people perform in the UK having first listened to the songs back in the 70’s. Also having the opportunity to see their reaction to the crowd responding to songs which they had thought had been forgotten as they had gone unnoticed in their own country.
A quality line up of the countries leading DJ’s providing a range of music from the oldest memories to the cutting edge, truly something to suit everyone’s taste.
The production of a programme in a magazine style which not only gives the information on the weekends entertainment times but also included articles providing some background and history on the performers.
All of the above have helped Prestatyn establish a reputation for proving the ultimate weekend experience of quality soul music “all under one roof”
The weekenders would not have been possible without the help of many people, staff, management, dj’s, artists, friends who go out most weekends distributing flyers, and I would like to thank them for all their efforts and support but most of all I would like to thank all who attend the weekend because without your support none of the above would have ever happened.
Who knows how long we have left, many have been predicting the end of our scene for years but it seems very healthy to me.
This weekend we have decided to invite back some of the artists that have appeared at Prestatyn in the last 10 years to help join in the celebrations of our 10th Anniversary.
Andy McCabe has brought his Soultown crew again to start the weekend off in the Queen Vic on the Friday, Pete Roberts and his crew will get the Wheel turning again on the Saturday Afternoon, Carl and Maria will tempt you into their room delivering the promise of quality music in their Saturday All Nighter and Roger Banks has lined up the usual suspects to hit you with his R&B rhythm stick on Saturday in the Queen Vic and again on Sunday evening.
The weekend is jam packed full of entertainment. For your part just join in and enjoy what is really your weekend.
All the best
John Poole
Prestatyn 10 Year Review
On a scene that reveres past venues for their atmosphere and the music that was played there it’s interesting to consider that The Prestatyn Weekenders have outlived all those legendary establishments without being a centre for “new” musical discoveries itself. Instead its longevity has been due to a simple formula, keep most of the people happy most of the time by delivering an event that brings you every facet of the Rare Soul Scene under one roof with on site accommodation. The unique element of The Prestatyn experience has been the Northern Soul Showcases with their spectacular array of legendary Soul artists. When you were dancing away to your favourite tunes at The Wheel or The Torch, The Mecca or The Casino it wouldn’t have crossed your mind that some thirty to forty years later you’d be seeing them perform live with a full backing band in front of two or three thousand appreciative people.
Let’s take the opportunity then, to wind back the clock to March 2002 and take a journey year by year through to March 2011 to recall the artists who have graced the Prestatyn stage.
2002 – The promoters were a bit nervous for their first foray into the weekender format. Would people want to see live artists? Could the artists still sing? could the band hold a tune? Their fears were allayed on all three counts as first Tony Middleton and then Ray Pollard wowed the crowd with renditions of their Northern hits. Tony Middleton took us to the “Ends of the Earth” before telling us all about his “Paris Blues” and Ray Pollard crammed all his emotion into the story of “The Drifter” to close out the show.
2003 – Encouraged by the success of the first showcase Messer’s Poole, Fletcher and O’Brien expanded the line up from two to three artists. From the Windy City came Don Gardner, out of Texas came Lou Pride and from the spiritual home of Northern (yes that’s Detroit) came a youthful Gwen Owens. To see Don perform Cheatin Kind was an honour (given he couldn’t remember singing it in the first place this was only the second time he had uttered those lyrics). Lou Pride truly did “Come home in the Mornun’” and Gwen (with her son and daughter on backing vocals) found that she really was “Wanted and Needed”
2004 – For this instalment the artist roster had expanded to five, with Montclairs frontman Phil Perry performing in both the Northern and Modern arenas. Phil’s pitch perfect rendition of “Hey You” was followed by a barnstorming “Hung Up On Your Love”. Detroit’s most soulful postman (Melvin Davis) opened the show but he couldn’t find a “Quiet Place to be Lonely”. Cody Black was “Slowly Moulding” the night in to a frenzy before the crowd “Lent a Hand to Bobby Hutton” and refused to “Leave Baby Washington Alone”
2005 – A landmark year for me with two of my all-time favourite artists appearing. When the crowd heard Lorraine Chandler “They couldn’t hold on” and when Eddie Parker hit the stage “I was Gone”. Troy Keyes delivered a “Love Explosion” the returning Melvin Davis dueted with his son Brian on “I Need My Baby” and James Bell told us of his “Love of His Girl”.
2006 – The joy of Six for 2006. Two great groups, four male vocalists but no ladies this time. It was evident from the audience’s reaction that Lou Ragland wasn’t “Travelling Alone”. Dean Courtney found that “We’d Always Need Him” and the crowd “Opened The Door To Their Hearts” for Donni Burdick. Nolan Porter “Kept The Night Keeping On” and whilst the Masqueraders found out that playing at Prestatyn wasn’t “The Same Thing” the Precisions observed that “If This Was Love” they wouldn’t be lonely.
2007 – The glamour came back this year with two spectacular songstresses performing. Pat Lewis realised that she wouldn’t have “No One To Love” and Dee Dee Sharp showed us “What Kind Of Lady” she was ( an awesome singing one of course!). The evergreen Morris Chestnut showed us that he truly was “Too Darn Soulful”, Roy Roberts “Knew What To Do To Satisfy You” and Phillip Mitchell was “So Happy” (most of the time!).
2008 – Saw a “Job Opening” for the Del-Larks and Gloria Jones encouraged the assembled masses to “Come Go With Her”. Jerry Williams said “If You Ask Me”, which we did and he delivered! Gwen Owens and The Precisions made return visits due to popular demand from the discerning Prestatyn crowd and a great time was had by all.
2009 – When the promoters signed up the legendary Volumes to appear they didn’t realise that two of their members were also in The Magnetics. The fans found they “Weren’t Gonna Give Us Up” before they told us about “The Lady In Green”. Eula Cooper “Let Our Love Grow Higher”, Lenis Guess “Just Asked Us” Benny Troy “Gave Us Tomorrow” and Bobby Patterson told us “I’m In Love With You”.
2010 – Sidney Barnes found that when you’re on the Prestatyn stage you really are “Standing On Solid Ground” Mary Love “Turned Any Bitter Into Sweet” and Kenny Hamber gave us “Anything We Wanted”. Those Soul Superman The Hesitations appeared to the delight of the crowd and evidenced that they are “Built That Way” to deliver an awesome performance.
2011 – So bang up to date then and what can we expect. Well with this year’s line – up included we will have seen an amazing total of forty artists! To help us celebrate our tenth anniversary we will have the returning talents of Lorraine Chandler, The Volumes and Benny Troy along with first time appearances from Jesse James, Rita Graham and James Bell. Here’s looking forward to another spectacular Northern Soul Showcase and long may they continue!
All the best
Dave Tidswell