1960s at The Troubadour
The 1960s was a defining decade in the Troubadour’s history. But as the old saying goes ‘if you can remember the ‘60s you weren’t there’ and as a result we have very little in the way of hard facts, dates and photos.
We are frequently contacted by people who used to hang out at the Troubadour at this time and the personal anecdotes are always a pleasure to come across. Many people were so drawn to the uniqueness of The Troubadour and everything that it embodied that they practically lived here. They’d do a bit of washing up or odd jobs in return for an endless supply of coffee and soup, good company and great music. It was a place for free thinkers. The Troubadour encapsulated the spirit of the time.
Help us piece together the past
If you have any information, anecdotes, stories, photos, or any memorabilia relating to the Troubadour in the ‘60s (or indeed any other time) then do please get in touch by emailing susie@troubadour.co.uk. The Troubadour is the Troubadour because of its history. As its current custodians, we feel that documenting its past is as important as ensuring its future.
Currently we do know that:-
1962 - Bob Dylan played his first impromptu gig at the Troubdour. He was a guest of Richard Farina who was a regular musician at the Troubadour. Amazingly, Alison Chapman McLean's photo of this has found it way to us via [Richard Farina's website] (http://www.richardandmimi.com/troubadour.html)
The above photo shows Fariña, Dylan, and von Schmidt living it up. Off to the side are Ethan Signer (back turned) and Martin Carthy. This photo also appeared in Positively 4th Street, but was not credited to Alison Chapman McLean, and Martin Carthy was not identified
We also know that:- 1961 – Paul McNeil played
In 1962 the following played: Davey Graham, Martin McCarthy, Jeanie Robertso, The McPeakes, Nigel Denver, Dick Farina, Louis Killen all played.
Paul Simon played in 1963/64.
Michael Van Bloeman founder of The Troubadour. Photo taken in 1964.
London '60s week
For the next decade we will be collaborating with London 60s week. This is a celebration, 50 years on, of an extraordinary decade when London led the world in a new cultural and social direction. During the week of 16th to 25th July 2010, there’ll be live performances, talks, fashion shows, films and loads more all in aide of The London 60s Week Trust.
London 60s Week’s primary purpose is to celebrate the creative explosion of London during the 60s. They believe the only way to do this is by bringing generations together. Intergenerational activity is the key to promoting mutual respect between people of all backgrounds by providing opportunities to learn and exchange experiences, knowledge and cultural traditions.
London in the 60s was the city of the decade because the young made themselves heard through their energy, creativity and spirit. London 60s Week embraces this legacy and passion while looking towards the future.
This annual event is a city wide celebration of year long activities bringing generations together highlighting the importance of intergenerational working with Age Concern, Help The Aged, The WI, The Bobby Moore fund to name a few who all know the value in building understanding, respect & pride in the London generation of the 60s and the London generation of the now. Read more