Rickresource Rickenbacker Forum

Just saw this forum!
I have an interesting story to tell which illustrates my 1 degree of separation between myself and the lads. My old man played in a band from the U.K in the 60's called Sounds Incorporated. Sounds were managed by Brian Epstein and were basically the Beatles support act during all their tours of the U.S and Australia in the 60's. I have rare black and white footage of the Beatles Australian special with Sounds Inc opening for the Beatles. John Gillard, Sounds Incs guitarist (My uncle basically) had for many years, (which I myself saw before he sold it to a vintage guitar shop) a Gretsch Country Gent (Chet Atkins) which was given to him by George Harrison and was owned by George. Sounds Inc also being one of Britains greatest horns acts played on the Sgnt Peppers album and backed throughout the sixties people like Gene Vincent and Little Richard to name but two. In late 1989 I had the pleasure of meeting a good mate of my fathers, a chap by the name of Harry Nilson. Harry for those who don't know was John Lennons drinking buddy in New York and Johns favourite muso. I liked Harry allot and before he died (sadly) I talked with him about a wide range of topics, he and my old man got pretty drunk together quite a few times. I know for a fact that the other guys in Sounds have many photo's and personal recordings of the guys in the Beatles talking and being stupid on the tour bus' when they were travelling, most of which I have never heard. Anyway I thought I'd share a bit of personal info that may or may not be of interest to this forum.
Cheers...

Well I know that I am not just speaking for myself ,but bring on the photos and stories!

Yes, I knew Sounds Incorporated quite well. We (The Undertakers) shared the stage with them at the Star Club, in Hamburg on a couple of occasions. They were a funny bunch and we had a great time. Also on the bill with us, during a 1963 stint, was Gene Vincent and his group, the Bluecaps.

The drummer from Sounds Incorporated, Tony Newman, lives near me and we still get together. He is still active and plays with the Everly Brothers.

Chris!
Mate, I shall mention the Undertakers to JG as I see him not too infrequently, he's my old mans business partner. Tony (the Looney!) Newman was over here not so long ago with his wife I believe and even though the guys from the band got together I have never had the (dubious *smile*) pleasure of making his acquaintance. I suppose I don't have to tell you any stories about Tony as you know the man in person but I have heard some absolute howlers in the past, like the time he invited the lads from Sounds over to his apartment to show them his new Spear gun! (in London???) he then set about firing it through his refrigerator. I have also heard that when Tony was playing the Beckola days they wound up on a bill somewhere together with the Stones. The story goes that even the great Keith Richards had heard of Newmans reputation and was quoted as saying warily in passing Newman back stage "I've heard all about you!" *laughing* You might like to wish him all the best from Trevor Whites son, Simon, when you catch up with him next.

Tony Newman has the most infectious smile I've ever seen. You see him smiling and you just have to wonder what he's up to. I must say though, it's an honest smile...LOL! If I could post a photo on this site: I have the very one. It's Tony (with his insane smile) and me last Christmas. He hasn't changed, one bit.

There's great footage of Sounds Incorporated at the Shea Stadium concert. I f you haven't seen it, check it out- they're hilarious!