From the age of 9, John Otway knew he wanted to be a pop star. But even at that young age, having listened to his sister's Beatles and Stones records, he knew he would never be able to do what they do...

Otway had to wait until 1977 and the rise of punk before his dream of fame and fortune would finally become a reality - and it certainly did. Having caught the eye of the producers of the BBC's Old Grey Whistle Test, Otway's performance on the show would grab the attention of the watching audience. Ever the showman, John decided to jump on to the amplifier of his colleague during a performance of Bob Lind's Cheryl's Going Home. (Un)fortunately for Otway, he misjudged his leap and sent Wild Willy Barrett’s amplifier tumbling as he crashed down straddling the box under the amp. The full force of the impact was absorbed by the most tender part of his body, but in doing this one simple act of recklessness and his wanton disregard for his own safety, Otway was the talk of everyone who watched that evening's programme. Not only did he see a surge in his audiences, sales of Otway's sixth single, the half-spoken love song Really Free increased dramatically and reached number 27 in the UK singles chart.

It was then that an appearance on the BBC's flagship music programme Top of the Pops, where Otway and Barrett were introduced by Elton John later, Otway became the star that he had always dreamed.

Now ready to take on Aldershot, irrepressible and eccentric John Otway and The Big Band are thrilled to be performing at West End Centre.

Tickets: £18 / £16 concession

Event: Friday 5 August, 8pm

We may carry out live streaming, photography and sound recording in the venue, and your consent for this filming may be requested. Please advise venue staff if you do not wish to participate. For more information please see our venue Terms and Conditions and the Hampshire Cultural Trust Privacy Policy.  

 

  • Band performing with seaside theme in background

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