Living in England

It has been only 7 days since, in a small village of Surrey, Eric Clapton and friends had their annual gig dedicated to the AA. Since then there have been thousands of postings and articles on the net about it. This is, I believe, because this year there were some big names of the music world with Eric and his usual band..  Pete Townsend of the Who, Ringo Starr of the Beatles, Joe Walsh of the Eagles., as well as the usual top musicians who join Eric like, Andy Fairweather Low, and Gary Brooker. The internet news started from a blog posting of someone who was there and, because I was there as well, I want to also say that the evening was a fantastic gig. But, lets not forget the excellent supporting band that opens the gig every year.  It’s a fantastic band with many of the musicians coming from the same family, the Griffiths.  Dave plays fantastic guitar and his son Nicky is a great singer and performer on the stage.  This year, Dave’s wife (and Nicky’s mum), Jackie, even joined them playing guitar for one number.

Secondly, some articles on the net state that the event was made for some selected VIPs. This is not true at all. The annual event is mostly like a family event with a limited amount of tickets. This year was possibly a bit different because with Joe Walsh coming from the States he probably brought some friends with him. I did notice that several times when I went outside for a cigarette there was a fair amount of Americans out there too.  The side of the hall where we usually sat in past years,  was cordoned off this year with reserved tables for friends and family of the musicians. That was all, no VIPs or Celebrities. As usual many of us brought from home our new year’s eve food and soft drinks in  plastic containers and carrier bags like on a picnic. Of course you can  get hot food at the premises until 11.30 but most people bring their own stuff. Finally I want to thank all people that made that night unforgettable. Good Show Chaps.