The (Jazz) Cellar Club, Kingston Upon Thames, southwest London

The (Jazz) Cellar in Kingston Upon Thames was an important music venue in southwest London from 1962-1966. Many notable local bands played there in their formative years, most notably The Yardbirds and The Nashville Teens. The Animals also played there regularly in the early months of 1964 after moving down to London from the northeast.

I have started to compile a gig list and would welcome any additions/corrections in the comments section. I would also welcome any memories and photos/flyers/posters.

1962

I have only a few entries for 1962 and would welcome any additions

14 July – The Nashville Teens (Surrey Comet)

21 July – The Nashville Teens (Surrey Comet)

28 July – The Nashville Teens (Surrey Comet)

6 September – Mike Berry & The Outlaws (Surrey Comet)

Ritchie Blackmore didn’t join The Outlaws on lead guitar until mid-October 1962

1 November – Screaming Lord Sutch & The Savages (Surrey Comet)

1963

I have only a few entries for 1963 and would welcome any additions

20 February – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

23 February – Dean Lincoln & The Topics (Surrey Comet)

 

8 March – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

9 March – The Avengers (Surrey Comet)

10 March – Neil Christian (Surrey Comet)

12 March – The Burnettes (Surrey Comet)

14 March – The Barron Knights and The Nashville Teens (Surrey Comet)

21 March – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

 

12 April – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

 

2 May – Johnny Kidd & The Pirates (Surrey Comet)

3 May – Neil Landon & The Burnettes (Surrey Comet)

25 May – Paul Danton & The Deputies (Surrey Comet)

26 May – The Laurie Jay Combo and Barry St John (Surrey Comet)

28 May – The Topics (Surrey Comet)

30 May – Sounds Incorporated (Surrey Comet)

 

20 June – The Solitairs (Surrey Comet)

21 June – The Jet Blacks (Surrey Comet)

 

2 July – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

17 July – The Roosters (with Eric Clapton) (Surrey Comet)

24 July – The Roosters (with Eric Clapton) (Surrey Comet)

Confusingly, there were two local bands called The Roosters. The first, led by Ben Palmer, included Eric Clapton and future Manfred Mann guitarist Tom McGuiness between January-August 1963.

The second (less celebrated one) featured Pete Jeffries (lead guitar), Del Turner (rhythm guitar), Ron Jefferies (bass) and Jim Strachan (drums). The other gigs below are by this version.

 

8 August – The Hi-Fi and Tony Kaye (Surrey Comet)

10 August – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

13 August – Colin Shane & The Shannons (Surrey Comet)

29 August – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

 

7 September – Alex & The Blues Strangers (John Warburg research – see comments section below)

8 September – Screaming Lord Sutch & The Savages (John Warburg research – see comments section below)

12 September – The Rolling Stones (Surrey Comet)

 

12 October – The Stormville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

 

21 December – Steve Marriott & The Moonlights (Surrey Comet)

28 December – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

1964

I don’t have a complete listing for 1964 so would welcome any additions

The Pieces of Four performed at the Cellar Club during 1964. Photo: Keith Read. Keith lists the personnel as Keith Read (lead guitar), Ian Duffell (lead guitar), Robin Clements (bass) and Ian Clements (drums)

5 January – Screaming Lord Sutch & The Savages (Surrey Comet)

11 January – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

15 January – The Shifters (audition) (John Warburg’s research – see comments section below)

28 January – Neil Landon & The Burnettes (Surrey Comet)

 

3 February – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending – Monday evening – see comments section below)

5 February – The Animals (first regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research – see comments section below)

7 February – The Druids (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

8 February – The Senators (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

9 February – The Fortunes and The Clifton All Stars (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

10 February – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

11 February – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

12 February – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

14 February – Im & The Uvvers (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

16 February – Gene Vincent & The Shouts (Surrey Comet)

17 February – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

18 February – The Presidents (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

19 February – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

21 February – The Mastersounds (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

22 February – The Cracksmen (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

23 February – The Nashville Teens (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

24 February – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

25 February – Wayne Gibson & The Dynamic Sounds (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

26 February – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

28 February – The Zephyrs and Rob Storme & The Whispers (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

29 February – The Presidents (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

Photo: story on Cellar Club, Clapham Advertiser, 6 March 1964, page 4

1 March – Grant Tracey & The Sunsets (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

2 March – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

3 March – The Stereos (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

4 March – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

6 March – The Moquettes (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

7 March – The Pentagons (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

8 March – The Nashville Teens (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

10 March – The Beat Syndicate (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

11 March – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

13 March – Steve Marriott & The Wandering Ones (Surrey Comet)

The Kingston & Malden Borough News says that Steve Marriott’s backing band are called The Frantics. The Clapham Advertiser also has this listing, but with Jimmy Powell & The Dimensions in support.

14 March – The Senators (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

15 March – The Gamblers (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

16 March – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

17 March – Ronnie Webb & The Phantoms (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

18 March – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

Photo: Clapham Advertiser

20 March – Bridgette Bond (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

21 March – The Cracksmen (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

22 March – Wayne Gibson & The Dynamic Sounds (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

23 March – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

25 March – Unit 5 (Teddington, west London band) (Kingston & Malden Borough News) Kim Chester says The Animals played a regular Wednesday residency

Photo: Norman Sheers. Jerry Lee Lewis, 26 March 1964

26 March – Jerry Lee Lewis (backed by The Nashville Teens) (Norman Sheers’ recollections)

Photo: Norman Sheers

Jerry Leech (see comments section below) confirms that Jerry Lee Lewis played on 26 March

Photo: Norman Sheers

The Kingston & Malden Borough News lists Jerry Lee Lewis for this date with The Nashville Teens and The Original Checkmates

Photo: Norman Sheers
Photo: Norman Sheers

27 March – The Stormsville Shakers with Jerry Lee Lewis (Surrey Comet and website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

28 March – Micky Finn & The Blues Men (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

29 March – The Paramounts (John Warburg’s research – see comments section below)

The Kingston & Malden Borough News lists The Zephyrs for 29 March

30 March – The Yardbirds (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

1 April – The Animals and The Originals (Kingston & Malden Borough News/Harrow Weekly Post)

3 April – The Presidents (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

4 April – The Black Jays (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

5 April – The Druids (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

6 April – The Yardbirds (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

8 April – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

10 April – The Cardinals (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

11 April – The Bumblies (Kingston & Malden Borough News) Harrow Weekly Post has Val Foster & The Senators

12 April – Jimmy Stevens & The Exciters (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

13 April – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

15 April – The Animals (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

16 April – Tommy Quickly & The Remo Four (Record Mirror)

17 April – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

18 April – Kal Foster & The Senators (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

19 April – The Nashville Teens (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

20 April – The Yardbirds (Surrey Comet)

Record Mirror confirms that The Yardbirds play every Monday

22 April – The Tridents (Surrey Comet and John and Paul Lucas’ diaries)

The Kingston & Malden Borough News lists The Animals for 22 April

27 April – The Yardbirds (Record Mirror)

30 April – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

2 May – The Plebs and The Original Topics (Surrey Comet)

3 May – Micky Finn & The Bluesmen (Surrey Comet)

4 May – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

6 May – The Nashville Teens (Surrey Comet)

8 May – Steve Marriott & The Frantic Ones (Surrey Comet)

9 May – Micky Finn with The Black Jays (Surrey Comet)

10 May – Micky Finn & The Bluemen (Surrey Comet)

11 May – The Yardbirds (confirmed by Gus Smith who attended)

13 May – Tony Colton & The Crawdaddies (Surrey Comet)

15 May – The Moquettes (Surrey Comet)

16 May – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

18 May – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

20 May – The Pretty Things (Record Mirror)

23 May – The Micky Finn (Surrey Comet)

24 May – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

25 May – The Yardbirds and The Grebbels (Surrey Comet)

27 May – The Tridents with The Plebs (Surrey Comet and John and Paul Lucas’ diaries)

29 May – Phil & The Stormsville Shakers (Surrey Comet)

30 May – The Karnells (Surrey Comet)

31 May – The Micky Finn (Surrey Comet)

 

1 June – The Yarbirds (Surrey Comet)

3 June – The Animals (regular Wednesday residency) (Kim Chester research)

Record Mirror says that John Lee Hooker played on 3 June supported by John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers and with The Plebs opening. Surrey Comet confirms

5 June – The Pitmen (Surrey Comet)

6 June – The Road Runners (Surrey Comet)

7 June – The Satins (Record Mirror)

8 June – The Yardbirds (Surrey Comet)

10 June – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

12 June – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

13 June – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

14 June – Tony Holland & The Packabeats (Surrey Comet)

15 June – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

17 June – Group Four + One (Record Mirror)

19 June – The Henchmen (Record Mirror)

20 June – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

21 June – The Tridents (Record Mirror) replaced by The Vincents (Surrey Comet)

Lindsay Bex, who played drums with the band at the time, notes in his diary the following “Off – A O’Donnel”, which suggests that the gig was cancelled. Surrey Comet confirms as they have The Vincents.

22 June – The Yardbirds (Surrey Comet)

24 June – The Smokey Beats (Record Mirror)

26 June – The Countdowns (Record Mirror)

Surrey Comet has The Plebs instead of The Countdowns

27 June – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

28 June – The Playboys (Record Mirror)

29 June – The Yardbirds and The Grebbels (Surrey Comet)

1 July – Five’s Company (Surrey Comet)

3 July – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

4 July – Five’s Company (Surrey Comet)

5 July – Cops & Robbers (Surrey Comet)

8 July – Johnny & The Spirits (Surrey Comet)

10 July – The Echoletts (Surrey Comet)

11 July – The Laurie Jay Combo (Surrey Comet)

12 July – The Stereos (Surrey Comet)

13 July – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

17 July – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

18 July – Earl Sheridan & The Houseshakers (Surrey Comet)

19 July – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

20 July – The Yardbirds (Surrey Comet)

22 July – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

24 July – The Presidents (Record Mirror)

25 July – Mickie Finn & The Blue Men (Record Mirror)

26 July – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

27 July – Group Four + One (Record Mirror)

29 July – The Impacts (Surrey Comet)

31 July – The Original Topics (Surrey Comet)

 

1 August – The Web (Surrey Comet)

2 August – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

3 August – The Yardbirds (Surrey Comet)

5 August – The Animals and The Plebs (club flyer)

7 August – The Plebs and The Denims (club flyer)

Surrey Comet has Screaming Lord Sutch & The Savages on 7 August

8 August – Group Four + One (club flyer)

9 August – The Nite Shift (club flyer)

Jeff Beck was the band’s lead guitarist but would join The Tridents in early September.

10 August – The Mike Cotton Sound (club flyer)

12 August – The Nashville Teens and The Beat Syndicate (club flyer/Surrey Comet)

14 August – The Jet Set (Surrey Comet)

15 August – The Playboys (Surrey Comet)

16 August – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

17 August – The Mojos (Kingston & Malden Borough News)

19 August – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

21 August – Wayne Gibson & The Dynamic Sounds (Surrey Comet)

22 August – The Bumblies (Surrey Comet)

23 August – The Cheaters (Surrey Comet)

24 August – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

26 August – The Moonrakers (Surrey Comet)

28 August – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

29 August – The Presidents (Surrey Comet)

30 August – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

31 August – The Mike Cotton Sound (Surrey Comet)

 

5 September – The Plebs (Surrey Comet)

7 September – The Mojos (Surrey Comet)

9 September – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

11 September – The Druids (Surrey Comet)

12 September – The Bumblies (Surrey Comet)

13 September – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

14 September – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

This gig (and the remaining ones below) were performed by the second version of The Roosters and not the one that featured Eric Clapton and Tom McGuiness between January-August 1963 (see entries above from July 1963).

16 September – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

18 September – Linda Crane & The Cosmic Sounds (Surrey Comet)

19 September – The Profits (Surrey Comet)

20 September – Guest groups (Surrey Comet)

21 September – Group Four + One (Surrey Comet)

23 September – Two groups (Record Mirror) Surrey Comet has The Cheaters

25 September – The Cosmic Sounds with Linda Crain (aka Crane) (Record Mirror) Surrey Comet has The Wranglers

26 September – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

27 September – Two groups (Record Mirror)

28 September – Group Four + One (Record Mirror)

30 September – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

 

2 October – The College Boys (Surrey Comet)

3 October – Little Richard & The Objects (Surrey Comet)

4 October – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

5 October – The Mike Cotton Sound (Surrey Comet)

7 October – Rock ‘n’ Roll competition (Record Mirror/Surrey Comet)

9 October – The Roosters (Record Mirror)

10 October – Im an The Uvvers (Record Mirror)

11 October – The Jaguars (Surrey Comet)

The Orbits, 1964. Photo: Trevor Bennett. Left to right: Todd Tyrell, Ted Cunningham, Brian Edwards and Trevor Bennett.

12 October – The Mojos and The Orbits (Record Mirror)

14 October – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

16 October – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

17 October – Earl Sheridan & The Houseshakers (Record Mirror)

18 October – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

19 October – The Mike Cotton Sound (Record Mirror)

21 October – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

23 October – Neil Christian & The Crusaders (Surrey Comet)

24 October – The Challengers (Surrey Comet)

25 October – Guest group (Surrey Comet)

26 October – Little Eva, The Stereos, The College Boy, The Rockin’ Welsh Boys and Danny Storm & The Strollers (Surrey Comet)

28 October – Unit 5 (Teddington, west London band) (Surrey Comet)

30 October – The Exciting Stereos (Record Mirror)

31 October – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

 

1 November – The Group Survival (Record Mirror)

2 November – Themselves (Record Mirror)

4 November – The Roosters and XL5 (Surrey Comet)

7 November – Cosmic Sounds (Surrey Comet)

13 November – The Impacts (Surrey Comet)

16 November – Jimmy Reed, The Plebs and John Lee Groundhogs (Surrey Comet)

18 November – Carl Perkins and The Cosmic Sounds (Surrey Comet)

21 November – Themselves (Surrey Comet and Gus Smith recollections from attending)

24 November – The Yardbirds (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

27 November – Unit 5 (Teddington, west London band) (Surrey Comet)

28 November – The Jaguars (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

 

4 December – The Bo-Sneakers (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

12 December – The Roosters (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

18 December – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

26 December – The Roosters (Surrey Comet)

1965

I don’t have a complete entry for 1965 and would welcome any additions

The Impalas performed at the Cellar Club during 1964-1965. Left to right: Keith Read, Keith Mott, Tony Claiden and Oonagh Ellis. Photo: Keith Read.

2 January – The GTs (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

4 January – Alex Harvey & His Soul Band (Melody Maker)

9 January – The John Smith Group (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

 

15 February – Screamin’ Jay Hawkins (Melody Maker)

20 February – John Brown’s Bodies (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

 

5 March – Alex Harvey & His Soul Band (Melody Maker)

6 March – The Rising Suns (all-nighter session) (Gus Smith recollections from attending)

 

1 May – The Shondells (Surrey Comet)

8 May – Teddy & The Dymes (Surrey Comet)

15 May – The Shondells (Surrey Comet)

22 May – Davey Sands & The Essex (Surrey Comet)

29 May – The Tribe (Surrey Comet)

 

3 June – John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers (Surrey Comet) This may have been 2 June

5 June – The Shondells (Surrey Comet)

12 June – Ancient Britons and Twinkle (Surrey Comet)

19 June – The Just Five and The Exciting Rippers (Surrey Comet)

26 June – The RBQ (Surrey Comet)

 

3 July – The Stormsville Shakers (website: http://www.stormsvilleshakers.com/bandhistory.html)

10 July – Davey Sands & The Essex (Surrey Comet)

17 July – The Shanes (Surrey Comet)

24 July – The Dagoes (Surrey Comet)

31 July – The Lonely Ones (Surrey Comet)

 

4 August – Sugar Pie Desanto, The Shevelles and The Backbeats (Surrey Comet)

7 August – The Small Faces (Surrey Comet)

15 August – John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers (Surrey Comet) This might be 14 August

20 August – Unit 4 Plus 2 (Surrey Comet)

21 August – Davey Sands & The Essex (Surrey Comet)

25 August – Zoot Money’s Big Roll Band (Surrey Comet)

28 August – The Shondells (Surrey Comet)

 

3 September – The Small Faces (Surrey Comet)

10 September – The Moody Blues (Surrey Comet)

11 September – Heart and Souls, The Valkeries and The Right Track (Surrey Comet)

15 September – Lou Johnson (Surrey Comet)

24 September – The In Crowd (Surrey Comet)

1 October – The Artwoods (Surrey Comet)

2 October – The Valkeries and The Geordies (Surrey Comet)

9 October – The Lonely Ones, The Shakedowns, The Flashbakks and Kiko 6 (Surrey Comet)

15 October – Steampacket with Long John Baldry, The Brian Auger Trinity, Rod Stewart, Julie Driscoll and Next of Kin (Surrey Comet)

23 October – The Lonely Ones (Surrey Comet)

30 October – The Fetish Crowd (Surrey Comet)

 

3 November – Hedgehoppers Anonymous and Randy’s Incaras (Surrey Comet)

5 November – The Lonely Ones (Surrey Comet)

19 November – The Phil Wainman Sound (Surrey Comet)

20 November – The Lonely Ones and Junior Ervin and The Midnite Hours (Surrey Comet)

24 November – The Small Faces (Surrey Comet)

26 November – The Clayton Squares (Surrey Comet)

3 December – The Burnettes (Surrey Comet)

10 December – The Clayton Squares (Surrey Comet)

11 December – The New Breed (Surrey Comet)

17 December – Sons of Fred (Surrey Comet)

23 December – The New Jump Band (Bob Hodges’ diary)

1966

This is an incomplete list and I would welcome any additions

7 January – The Lonely Ones (New Musical Express)

8 January – The Anteeks (New Musical Express)

14 January – The Anzacs (New Musical Express)

15 January – Next of Kin (New Musical Express)

22 January – The Flashbacks (New Musical Express)

28 January – Big Jump Band (aka New Jump Band) (Bob Hodges’ diary)

29 January – The Anzacs (New Musical Express)

 

4 February – The Big Sound (New Musical Express)

5 February – Group Survival (New Musical Express)

11 February – Jimmy Winston & The Rebels (New Musical Express)

12 February – The Lonely Ones (New Musical Express)

16 February – The Small Faces (New Musical Express)

18 February – The Lovin Kind (New Musical Express)

19 February – Rey Anton & The Peppermint Men (New Musical Express)

25 February – Jimmy Winston’s Reflections (New Musical Express)

The Candles. Photo: Colin Stoddart

26 February – The Marvels (New Musical Express) Colin Stoddart says his band The Candles also played on this date

 

4 March – Pinkerton’s Assorted Colours (New Musical Express)

5 March – The Night Society (New Musical Express)

12 March – The New Jump Band (New Musical Express)

18 March – Jimmy Winston’s Reflections (New Musical Express)

19 March – The John Warner Sound (New Musical Express)

23 March – The Nashville Teens (New Musical Express)

25 March – Jo Jo Gunne (New Musical Express)

26 March – The New Jump Band (New Musical Express)

30 March – The John Warner Sound (New Musical Express)

 

1 April – The Lonely Ones (New Musical Express)

2 April – Jo Jo Gunne (New Musical Express)

8 April – The Lonely Ones (New Musical Express)

9 April – The Beat Syndicate (New Musical Express)

10 April – The Silence (New Musical Express)

15 April – The Sons of Fred (New Musical Express)

16 April – The Night Society (New Musical Express)

17 April – Screaming Lord Sutch & The Savages (New Musical Express)

22 April – The Silence (New Musical Express)

23 April – The New Jump Band (New Musical Express)

29 April – The Protest (New Musical Express)

30 April – The Silence (the group changed name to John’s Children) (New Musical Express)

 

5 May – The Pages Five (New Musical Express)

6 May – The Troggs (New Musical Express)

8 May – The Jaguars (New Musical Express)

13 May – Jimmy Winston & The Reflections (New Musical Express)

13 May – Jo Jo Gunne (New Musical Express)

20 May – The Voyd (New Musical Express)

21 May – Time-Flys (New Musical Express)

27 May – The Legend (New Musical Express)

28 May – The Void (New Musical Express)

 

3 June – The Daisys (New Musical Express)

4 June – John Brown’s Bodies and Jesse Hector (New Musical Express)

10 June – John Hilton Starr & The Savages (New Musical Express)

11 June – Jo Jo Gunne (New Musical Express)

12 June – Froy Talbert (New Musical Express)

13 June – The Small Faces (New Musical Express)

17 June – The Voyd (New Musical Express)

18 June – The Anzacs (New Musical Express)

24 June – John Hilton Starr & The Savages (New Musical Express)

25 June – The Rick ‘N’ Beckers (New Musical Express)

 

1 July – The Lonely Ones (New Musical Express)

2 July – The Anzacs (New Musical Express)

8 July – The Troggs and The Wild Uncertainty (their debut) (New Musical Express)

16 July – The Wild Uncertainty (New Musical Express)

22 July – The Wild Uncertainty (New Musical Express)

23 July – The Flashbacks (New Musical Express)

29 July – The Night Society (New Musical Express)

30 July – The Subjects (New Musical Express)

 

6 August – Jo Jo Gunne (took part in London Palladium competition around now)

12 August – Jo Jo Gunne (New Musical Express)

13 August – The Missing Links (New Musical Express)

19 August – Cream (New Musical Express)

20 August – The Night Society (New Musical Express)

26 August – The Graham Bond Organisation (New Musical Express)

27 August – Four Plus a Bit (New Musical Express)

The Kingston & Malden Borough News ran an article on the club’s closure which was published in its 9 December 1966 issue on page 4 with the headline: “Cellar club ‘killed by drugs’ is sold to bingo syndicate”.

Copyright © Nick Warburton. All Rights Reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted in any from or by any means, without prior permission from the author.

 

106 thoughts on “The (Jazz) Cellar Club, Kingston Upon Thames, southwest London”

    1. I saw the Rolling Stones at the Cellar Club. I had only heard that they were supposed to be very good from a work colleague (Bentalls) who saw them in Richmond. They arrived in an old Bedford Dormobile and looked very strange. They did not wear a uniform – pretty much compulsary for bands until then and their long hair and bad complexions made them seem to belong to a different society and culture from middle class Kingston.
      When they started I could hardly distinguish the sounds because of the high sound volume in the low roofed club. I managed to tune in by about the third number which was one of my favourite Chuck Berry songs : Jaguar and the Thunderbird. I remember that throughout the performance Keith and Bryan continually broke their strings and cursed at the poor guy who didn’t restring the guitars quickly enough for them.
      I wanted to see more of them after that but they moved on away from clubs and toured cinemas with the Everly Brothers.

      1. I remember listening to Clapton at the Celler in Kingston in the 60s – standing room only and so steamy the walls were running with condensation. Brilliant.

      2. I was there as well, plenty effing and blinding as I recall. Saw them at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford also. Great days.

    2. Originally I was lead guitarist in a group called Bobby Angelo and the Tuxedos. We had a hit record we recorded in 1960 when I was 16 in Abbey Road when it was know as the St Johns Wood Studio, long before the Beatles. It was called Baby Sitting. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUo3Q0Bc_i0) Such was the impact it made the charts in 1962 and other musicians wanting a piece of the pie because we were on Juke box Jury/Saturday Club came to the town. Clapton moved there, and Jimmy Page was a regular and jammed with me and the band in the Swan, a pub in Kingston. Later at St Peters Hall run by the Tuxedos’ managers. Two shysters. I was at most of those Jazz Cellar gigs when I joined another band “The Keymen” as we never got paid in the Tuxedos. We used to rehearse there and the owner Hugh O’Donnel used us many times as a warm up band. Was on with Gene Vincent and many others on that list. Great memories. Originally the Jazz Cellar was in a different place down the road beside the main post office in Eden Street . As a pro musician I have lived in Ireland since 66 and toured everywhere there. I am 75 now.

  1. I used to go to the Cellar Club (owned by “Dad” was his nick-name) most weekends in the early to mid 1960’s. I met lot of people and still friends with Julian (used to be in the cleakroom). Ray & Mike Piercy. Iloved the Yardbirds and Heinz (very blond!) was great too!

    1. I worked at the Jazz Cellar Club between 1963-1965 when at College.
      It was the best music venue at that time south of London, Hughie who ran the club got most of the best Bands around including the Animals, Yardbirds & great American artists such as Gene Vincent & Gerry Lee Lewis. Missing from the lists already mentioned are Brian Poole & the Tremeloes & Freddie& the Dreamers. They were both great bands & had a big following at the club.
      One evening while I was working the iconic Dusty Springfield came to the club & Hughie was trying to arrange a gig for her, however as far as I remember she did not appear at the club. Great loss for us all!
      I was fortunate to often look after the bands needs while they were resting so got to speak with the likes of Eric Burdon, Gene Vincent & many others & get them there refreshments as well as anything else they may need while they were in between sets.
      Great days, fond memories!

    2. I knew Ray Piercy in the 50s and 60s as we were at the same primary school, but never saw him and his brother at the Cellar. I think the last I heard of him was on Friends Reunited some years ago.

      1. I was definitely there Christine it was just my regular visits were stunted by boarding school. saw the animals the roosters Screaming lord Such the Baron Knights, and quite a few others .Shame its all gone I live in Bedfordshire now

        Ray

        1. Found this page whilst researching clubs we went to in the 60s! Remember the Cellar (and the Island, Crawdaddy, Attic) for amazing music and acts we were lucky enough to experience. Yardbirds, Animals. Ginger Baker………………………….

      2. Hello Christine
        Ray Piercy was most definitely at The Cellar Club, although as he says he was at Boarding School so his visits were spasmodic!
        I think that I remember you as I worked at the Club from 1963 to 1965
        whilst at College
        Still very much in touch with Ray as he is my oldest friend now, spoke to him a week or so ago.
        Have not seen him recently due to the COVID 19 but hopefully we will meet up before too long!
        Take care & stay safe!
        Julian M

      3. I went frequently to the Cellar Club with a few mates in the early 60s. The first few times were when it was still in the basement of a house. Then it moved to the riverside building and we continued going there for a year or two. Does anyone remember when the move to the river building happened? I remember the Stormsville Shakers, the Impalas, several gigs by the Nashville Teens. Other bands whose names I can’t remember. I do recall seeing Neil Christian and the Crusaders there. They made a big impression, not least because of their outstanding guitarist who was playing a 3-pickup Gibson Les Paul Black Beauty through a blonde Fender Tremolux amp. Brilliant sound and playing. I had a very short chat with him during the band’s break and he introduced himself as Jimmy Page. He couldn’t have been more than about 18 then. I remember Hugh well and also Bob Xavior who always seemed to be in the audience to do at song or two at Hughie’s request. I was in a band at that time but I don’t recall us ever playing at the Cellar Club although we did play a few times at the Coronation Hall and also that big old church hall venue in Kingston. It’s good reading memories of the Cellar Club here and this is a great web page. Thanks.

  2. The owner of the Cellar Club was Hugh O’Donnell and I worked for him for some years. You will see my name mentioned among the other groups. I used to get Musicians together to play one offs. My best was getting Steve Marriott, John Entwhistle, (My favourite Bass player) and Ginger Baker to do a gig.

    1. Hello all,

      I am part of a small group that is currently investigating doing a project to collect the fascinating stories and history of music in Kingston upon Thames in the 1950’s and 1960’s – everything from the Cellar Club to Decca Records. We are in the really early in the thought process of this project and would really like to talk to anyone who was a part of the scene at that time to help us formulate the best way to run this project. If anyone would be happy to meet up for a chat over a beer then please feel free to drop me an email at yellyellyell @ gmail . com

      Cheers!

      1. Aniela.
        Has anyone yet mentioned to you the J&A club. It was run in a hall next to the then Liverpool Arms pub, at the north end of Kingston town just before you get to Kingston Hill. I recall it was a Friday night venue early 60s.

        1. That was St Peter’s church hall which is still there in London Road. It started with a youth club where I remember playing the Beatles first hit single, Love Me Do, on a small (Dansette?) record player in 1962 . The J&A must have started soon afterwards.

        2. That was run by “Bobby Angelo and the Tuxedos” managers when I was with them. Johny martin and Alan Taylor. Hence the J&A. They ran the Swan as well.

        3. Yeh, saw Joe Brown there, and he’s still playing in Eastbourne (got our ticket) after virus. Hopefully.

      2. That was run by “Bobby Angelo and the Tuxedos” managers when I was with them. Johny martin and Alan Taylor. Hence the J&A. They ran the Swan as well.

      3. Well I was certainly one of the first. Originally I was in Bobby Angelo and the Tuxedos and made my first record in Abbey road in 1960, way before the Beatles when I was 16. The record was called Baby Sitting and kicked off the Kingston music scene as it went in the charts and was a hit all over Europe . We were also featured on Juke Box Jury. As a result a lot of people came yo see us in the Swan including jimmy Page who was a friend at that time and sic months older than me . He would get up and we would jam together. He was with Neil Christian and the Crusaders at the time who also played at St Peters Hall and the Jazz cellar. Most of the record I made up on the spot as our managers J&A who run St peters Hall told us it was an audition and gave me £5 but EMI released it so they must have liked the sound. We were also on the BBC’s flagship radio program Saturday Club. Clapton in his book mentioned he moved to Kingston because the place was jumping. So many memories as a 76 year old now of those days.

        1. Nice to see you here Pete Cresswell , I was in the Impalas at Swan 65 – 70 .I remember you ,your Futurama 3 ,De armond foot pedal .Great player ,& I went to school with you brother Paul . All the best Keith Read .

      4. I probably know more about the Cellar Club than most people, I was the DJ there right up to when the club was sold and became a bingo hall.

        1. Hi John, I remember going to the KIngston Hotel about 1969 for reggae dancing with a girlfriend at weekends, I think the venue was then known as the Appletree Club but don’t remember it being a bingo hall. Can you throw any light on my memories. Kindest regards

          1. The Cellar Club was down the alley opposite the Police Station in high street. It was behind the old ritz cinema which was then a bingo hall. The original club was in the cellar of a house near to the old main post office.

      5. I was in a local band in the mid 60’s called the Impulse. We played at the Top Room in Eden Street and at the Kingston hotel. There were other venues but I can’t remember them.
        Gary Summers

      6. There is a writer in Ham, who was researching the Cellar Club . I was in correspondence with him 2020.

    2. I worked with Hugh in the late 70s at the holiday inn we used to clean the kitchen I didn’t even realise who he was I was only 18/19 .then he started chauffeuring and got back on his feet properly ‘ I wish I had known more about him at the time but he was a just another fella I worked with shame .

  3. Another of my regular Saturday night ‘drop-ins’ in 64-66…best all night tranny cafe outside of the Ace! I remember one night I was playing some vinyl when a punter asked the resident jock for ‘Al Capone’ – the reply was instant – ‘We don’t play jungle bunny cr*p in here mate’………..Hugh surfaced a bit later on, fronting Hatchetts in London…nice guy, ran a good venue.

  4. Was talking the other day about the days at the Cellar, and the night I was sent out by Gene Vincent to get him a crate of Brown Ale, not sure if he drank it all but what a memorable night, Hughie O’Donnell was a real gent as well. Great Club that was, I don’t think people believe me when I tell them the bands we used to watch, your list above is magic, proof at last?
    It started in the Cellar in Ashdown Road, must be 1962. Then moved to a upstairs club in High Street backing on to the River. Probably Late 63-64?
    Great Site.

    1. Yes you are right, it got it’s name because it was actually in the cellar of a house in Ashdown Road opposite the main post office. It transferred to the riverside site and became a bingo hall and casino in 1967.

      1. It was behind the Odeon cinema which later became a bingo hall, not the Cellar itself which must eventually have been condemned for safety reasons.

  5. Our Rock Band used to play here between 1964 and 1966. We were either The Original Orbits or The Beat System . At the time . Had a red headed singer called Ted. Well remember Hugh O,Donnell.

    1. Hi there, my name is Chris Mallet and Hugh was my uncle ( my mother’s brother ). My older sister was brought up with the Cellar Club vibe and so were we to a slightly lesser extent. We met all the bands and it was great fun. If you want to know anything more, just shout. Sadly Hugh passed away some years ago but his son Terence is still around.

      1. Sorry to hear about Hugh, he was a real gent, and he really loved the gigs. Probably earnt a few Bob as well, worth every penny. Where di he end up. Did he go to London after The Cellar? Thanks, (Probably catch up with him soon, we’re 76 now. Great memories.

  6. Re the Jazz Cellar
    I think you may have missed some events from your list.
    I’m sure I saw the Animals there some time early 60s. Chad Chandler was certainly there because I can recall him talking to my mother, who worked in the kitchen Saturday nights.
    There was also an evening when Screaming Lord Sutch split the seam in the rear of his silk trousers on stage a my mother did a ‘running repair’ on them.

    1. Hi Paul,
      Dads told me lots of stories about Nanny Mary working at the Cellar Club. Hope to hear from you soon. Joanna

    2. I’ll never forget the night we first heard the Animals sing House of the Rising Sun at the Cellar – the whole place was transfixed! I’ve just checked that the album of that name was released in October 1964 though the single probably came out first, so can’t pinpoint exactly when that night was. Still sends shivers down my spine!

  7. Hi Joanna
    Your note absolutely amazed me, and after all these years.
    Give me a call sometime on my mobile 07921 407684 a we’ll arrange to keep in touch.
    Great to hear from you and I hope all is well.
    Paul

  8. a few more dates for August 1964 taken from a flyer that is up for sale on ebay –
    5 August – The Animals plus The Plebs
    7 August – The Plebs, The Denims
    8 August – Four Plus One (Unit 4+1 ?)
    9 August – The Nite Shift (Jeff Beck ?)
    10 August – Mike Cotton Sound
    12 August – Nashville Teens

  9. Hi All,

    I played lead guitar with JoJo Gunne in the 60’s and we played Kingston Jazz Cellar many times. We played with the Nashville Teens and with Cream on I believe their first public gig.

  10. Jo Jo Gunne was a rock band, formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1971 by Jay Ferguson (keyboards, vocals and guitar) and Mark Andes (bass guitar and vocals) after they had left Spirit.
    Cream’s first gig was an unofficial performance at the Twisted Wheel Club in Manchester on 29 July 1966 before their full debut two nights later at the National Jazz and Blues Festival in Windsor.

  11. Jerry Lee Lewis played at the Cellar club on March 26 1964. Surprised it isn’t on the list. He was touring with Gene Vincent and the Animals but appeared at the club on his own + support band. Arrived well over an hour late and everyone was getting very agitated then suddenly walked in from back of club in camel hair coat over shoulders, enormous cigar. and went straight to the piano and played. Unforgettable evening!

    1. Didn’t see Jerry Lee Lewis but did see Gene Vincent. Had to get him a crate brown ale from pub next door. He dramk most of it!

  12. The Animals had regular Wednesday bookings in early 1964 until they joined the Jerry Lee Lewis and Chuck Berry tours and then found international fame. The booked dates were:
    5,12,19,26 Feb. 1964
    4,11,18 March (Possibly 26 March if anyone can confirm)
    8 and 30 April
    Possibly 3 June (if anyone can confirm)
    5 August with the Plebs. The Plebs were Jerry Lee Lewis’ UK back-up band as seen on RSG and included Danny McCulloch on bass, Danny joined Eric Burdon and the Animals in September 1966.

  13. Cellar – I think was at this gig – I am sure it was Graham Bond with maybe the first time Jon Hiseman played with Dick H-S perhaps even the first show for Coliseum

    1. Graham Bond also played at the Kingston Hotel opposite the bus station. Fondly known as punch-up night with Rock & Roll.

  14. I remember well the cellar club part of my many happy Saturday nights and having good friends to hang out with from 65 to 66 seeing all those fantastic bands

    Jean

    1. Saturday night at the Cellar Club was an all nighter. You used to see them staggering out at six o’clock on a Sunday morning stones out of their minds.

  15. Thank you very much for your work and effort, appreciate this journey down Nostalga Road. So glad to hear about this great club again, tried many times in the past to recall this great club, seemed to have vanished in the mists of time.
    My musical awakening as a young kid The Roosters and later the Yardbirds just knocked me out. Great days thank you.
    Sincerely Alec
    Montreal. Canada.

  16. I wonder if perhaps someone here can tell me what “Kingston Hotel’ signified, as a venue in the late 1960s? I run a site chronicalling the history of the band Yes. There is conflicting information about a show they played on Dec 21 1969, listed in some sources as ‘Kingston Hotel, Sheffield’, but in others as ‘Kingston Hotel, Kingston, Surrey’. Any details appreciated!

    1. Kingston Hotel was opposite the Bus station was hardly a prime site but lots of noise and booze etc. I think on the 1st floor. Graham Bond certainly played there around 1968. I don’t recall Yes ever being there as perhaps by then they were on the rise and gigging at the Revolution Club etc!

      1. Yes may have not been there, but quite likely that Mable Greer’s Toyshop with “Hans Christian Anderson” might have played there. After Yes formed from MGT – Clive Bailey ex lead guitar of MGT ran discos in the Kingston Hotel.

    2. Hi Steven

      So sorry for the very late response to this query. The Kingston & Malden Borough News throws some light on this.

      In its 19 April 1968 issue, it notes that Noel Simpson and Clive Bayley who is a member of Mabel Greer’s Toyshop, have opened the first Apple Tree Club in the Kingston Hotel (sorry don’t know address) in Kingston upon Thames. Pretty certain it was Friday (or Saturday) nights only but then from late April also did gigs on Sundays. They were largely local bands.

      However, I think they also expanded to included one in Putney (seen Apple Tree Club there) and on 17 August 1968, they opened Apple Tree Land in Staines Town Hall. Gigs here seem to be less frequent but local papers didn’t always carry every gig.

      I don’t know how long Clive was involved but there were still gigs at the Kingston Hotel into early 1970 and possibly beyond. I’ve noted down a few bands but they aren’t nationally known ones although the Downliners Sect did perform there.

      Hope that helps

  17. I grew up in Kingston and recall, as a child spending one Boxing Day in the early sixties with my family inside the Cellar Club. No music obviously. There were only 8 of us in there that day and I only recall that it was dark, and there was a stage with a drum kit which my brother had a go on . My uncle, David Harriman worked there…something to do with management perhaps? He was a shortish fella with a spivvy moustache. Does anyone remember him?

  18. Thank you all for reviving memories of that wonderful era.
    A group of us used to go to the Jazz Cellar in the 60s. I saw several bands but our main interest was the Yardbirds – I went to nearly all of their gigs. We would stand, soaked in sweat, absolutely mesmorised – particularly by Clapton. Even now his guitar playing on the Five live Yardbirds LP is astonishing – listen to Too Much Monkey Business!
    We were always crammed into the small “main hall” at the Cellar with little or no ventilation; it would no doubt be illegal these days.
    I’ve detailed below gigs I went to additional to those already listed. Also, the 11/5/64 gig of The Yardbirds is shown as not confimed – I CAN confirm it.
    1964:
    3 Feb, 10 Feb, 17 Feb, 24 Feb, 2 March, 16 March, 23 March, 13 April, 4 May, 24 Nov – all The Yardbirds.
    21 Nov Themselves
    28 Nov The Jaguars
    4 Dec Bo-Sneakers
    12 Dec The Roosters
    1965:
    2 Jan The G.T.s
    9 Jan John Smith Group
    20 Feb John Brown’s Bodies
    6 March an all-nighter session with The Rising Suns.
    3 July an all-nighter session, group not recorded by me but the film “Kong Creole” was shown in the adjoining room.

  19. I remember going to the cellar club with my uncle Jim one day . The Nashville teens where rehearsing there . My uncle worked there as a barman . I thought it was great meeting a well known band . I recently mentioned it to a friend of mine and it turns out he played there too.

  20. Hey, i’ve Been speaking to a guy called Terence O’Donnell who’s dad owned the club. If you want to know all about the history he’s got loads of stories about it. If you mail me then I can put you in touch with him.

    1. I remember Terry well, I worked at the cellar for some time and visited Hugh’s flat in Fyfe road when Tery was young.

    2. Hatchetts in Picadilly was a joint venture between Hugh and Don Arden, father of Sharon Osbourne, wife of Ozzy. I was DJ there a couple of times a wek.

      1. I played at Hatchetts with my band the Impulse, regularly during 1968. We supported Tim Rose on one occasion who had The little known then John Bonham on drums who went on to join Led Zeppelin

    3. Hi Mark, I would very much like to know more about the Cellar club for a project I’m researching on the Kingston music scene …,
      Many thanks,
      Paul

    4. I remembered Terry as a youngster. I visited their flat in Fyfe road when I worked as a DJ at the cellar. I sometimes drove Hugh up to the west end where we used to have a drink with Paul and Barry Ryan, along with their father Fred

  21. Hi Nick

    Found one more gig.

    Wednesday, 15 January 1964 – The Shifters
    This was an audition.

  22. I have some photos of when I played at the Cellar ( Pieces of 4 ) but I later I joined one of Kingston’s top groups – ” The Impalas ” Who did the Cellar & the J&A .Tony Claiden played guitar like Eddie Cochran ( Jimmy Page was a fan of his ) he could sing like Elvis . The Impalas were well respected but unambitious & turned down offers from some top USA producers. Their main venue was Sunday nights at the Swan ,Mill St ,Kingston 60’s & 70’s

      1. Just heard the sad news today that Tony has passed away.
        He was great. I last saw him sing/play in the early nineties on a Monday night at the Western Rooms, Archway, N. London. He shared the stage with Sonny West (of Sonny West & the Rythym Kings).
        Condolences to Lorraine and the rest of the family.

  23. One of my school-friends was married to Terry Crowe, the Plebs’ singer.
    I still see her regularly. Another band member was Mickey Dunford who went on to considerable success with Renaissance. Both sadly no longer with us.

  24. I was at the Rolling Stones gig in 63 and have an image of the manager on the stage at the end saying something like ‘that was a great night, come back next week and we’ve got a group from Newcastle called … er, the animals ‘ and me thinking … what a dumb name.

  25. The 17 th of April date with Screaming Lord Sutch had Jimmy Page on guitar. Reading that I played with a few of those bands as I was always on call to dep’. Neil Langdon for one when I was asked to stand in for Noel Redding who was their guitarist then before he got the job with Hendrix on bass. Please check for spellings on the original post as if there is an edit I cannot find it.

  26. Hi Nick

    I found two more gigs for 1963.

    Saturday 7 September 1963 – Alex and the Blues Strangers

    Sunday, 8 September 1963 – Screaming Lord Such and the Savages

  27. As a mod I remember my first allnighter was at the cellar don’t know what band was playing I seem to remember some records being played to many pills so cant remember much except it was a regular venue after that night and spent many a Sunday morning watching the sun rise over the river after dancing or talking the night away. This was a too smooth to move venue and remembered with a fondness and would love to experience it all over again. It is a great shame that the simple type of venue no longer exists.

  28. I went to loads of the gigs mentioned including Screaming Lord Sutch who arrived on stage in a coffin. Pretty sure John Lee Hooker played there as he signed some albums for me. Might be wrong. Memory is a little hazy.
    We used to drink in the nearby Morning Star ( Apple Market ) or the Crown
    and then one in The Ram, just in front of The Cellar before climbing up the steps to the club..
    Swan in Mill Street mentioned was another popular place. Lots of Trad in those days. Clapton used to busk on the wall by the river there as well as playing in the interval.
    Kingston was a great place in the 60s/70s with Tolworth ( Toby Jug) Richmond ( The Station ) or Twickenham ( Eel Pie) just a bus ride away. All had great venues for live music.
    Still see friends from those happy days.

    1. This is an amazing trip down memory lane. My father was the licensee of the Morning Star and from 1964 (age 18) I often helped out behind the bar.
      How lucky we were to have the Cellar Club in Kingston and how great was Hugh. I was there the first night the Animals played and I think every time the Stones were there.
      Fabulous memories.
      Thanks to all the people that have put this site together.

  29. Ah yes Eel Pie Island! What a fab’ venue in an old barn like property. Many (now very famous) bands played at that time, including Rod “The Mod” Stewart with Long John Baldrey and The Steam Packet. I recall all manner of strange clothing worn at that time, with lots of ex policeman’s capes done up with lion head chain clasps (well we used to sell them in our shop in KoT). I recall you could either pay a little old lady on the bridge to go across I think she you to say “It’s a penny dear”. Or you could take your chances by rowing across (after coming out of the local ale house)… Those were the days!

    1. I am a friend of Geoff, we met first when I was working at The Jazz Cellar In Kingston on Thames 1963-1965. We have been friends since those days.
      I recall my nights on Eel Pie Island & the penny to cross the bridge which was to help maintain it from falling into the river Thames below.
      It was eventually bought by Mr Snapper who had businesses in Kingston & elsewhere, my Dad knew him well, he was a successful businessman & I remember visiting his house on Kingston Hill near to an entrance to Richmond Park.
      It was on the Island that I first saw The Stones, they performed there before they had cut their first records & were simply terrific!
      I believe that they were there for many months I certainly saw them regularly for a long time I think it was Monday nights although the memory plays tricks. I remember the ginger beer as they had no License, we used to go back to the mainland “Twickers” to a nearby Pub for a Pint! in the interval.
      There where many other bands who performed however as I was really only interested in The Stones I cannot recall the names now.
      I think I also saw them at the Wooden Bridge Guildford & possibly the Crawdaddy in Richmond at the Athletics Ground, & of course one night they played The Cellar Club in Kingston when I was working there.
      My other recollection is when I saw the great Jimi Hendrix which I am sure was at the Cafe des Artistes in Fulham. I believe that he first performed at the “The Scotch at St James” club in Mason’s Yard near Jermyn Street Mayfair, when he first came to London from the USA after he left the Army. Perhaps someone can confirm this for me, as the memory plays tricks over the years. Wherever it was he was quite amazing & certainly never to be forgotten, just sad that he died so young!
      Living through those days were the best & never to be replaced again. Very lucky to have been there & seen it all!

      1. You can find your answer in the following book:
        JIMI HENDRIX – 50 Years On: The Truth (Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll – I WAS THERE) by Rod Harrod , Terry Ellis,

        1. Thanks Terry for the info
          Cannot find a copy of the book you quote, so could you tell us all who are interested the answers to my recollections.
          I am sure we would really like to know!

          1. I believe that the Base player from “The Animals” Chas Chandler managed Jimi Hendrix & brought him to UK & first Gig was at the”Scotch at St James” club in Masons Yard off of Jermyn Street W1 If anyone knows different please post your info

  30. The Kingston & Malden Borough News ran an article on the club’s closure which was published in its 9 December 1966 issue on page 4 with the headline: “Cellar club ‘killed by drugs’ is sold to bingo syndicate”

  31. Used to be one of the singers with the group the PROTEST we played all round Kingston at the jazz cellar, three fishes, surbiton assembly rooms, search light in New malden. Have some great memories of them times.

    1. Hi Roy !
      I was your drummer !
      Still actively involved in music, but playing keyboards these days.
      I’d love to get in touch. Find me on facebook…

  32. Anyone remember if Freddie Fingers Lee was the piano player with Screaming Lord Sutch when at the Cellar? I met him in Hamburg later when we were a support band to him in the Star Club about 1968/9. Wonderful stories about Sutch and stabbing members of the band on stage as part of the act.
    Mark

  33. Hi,
    Thanks to John Warburg for the email reminder. What a difference to compare the music, the venues and the type of people to those of the Cellar Club days. l lived in New Malden (at Sandal Cottage in Sandal Road) at the time. I met Julian, Ray & his brother Mike and I think Spencer as well at the now legendary venue. I’ve lived in Brighton for over 40 years now and we have (had) some fantastic venues as The Zap Club, Concord, The Green Door etc. not including the raft of discos. I go to (pre-lockdown) the Brunswick on Tuesdays for the jamming cont…

    1. and The Neptune on the weekends for the live rock bands. I’m very sad to note that not all of them are very good, but hey I’m biased and a very spoilt but also a very lucky person to be able to compare the bands we all saw on stage at what we thought was a grubby run-down venue in those days! Eat you heart out Fat Boy Slim! (no offence). So Viva the Cellar Club!

      1. Thanks Geoff for reminding us once again of that incredible period during the 1960’s, especially the first years when surely the best bands were performing in Clubs like “ The Jazz Cellar” in Kingston-on Thames
        The variety of Bands like The Animals, Yardbirds, Nashville Teens, Brian Poole & The Tremeloes, Freddie & The Dreamers, Rolling Stones, & I could go on & on.
        To be able to see & hear those great British Bands all performing at “The Cellar” for a few pounds entrance was quite amazing, and there is no period since then when that has been possible! Let’s also not forget that Hughie brought some of the great American Artists like Gene Vincent & Jerry Lee Lewes to the Club as well !
        Sure there have been other clubs but none to offer such pure delight for the young person to experience & surely it will never be repeated again!
        For those of us that were lucky enough to live through those times let’s say a big thank you to people like Hugh O’Donnell who ran the Club during those incredible few years & without his foresight surely it would never have happened !

        1. Oh you’re so right on Julian. We were all so incredibly lucky as post-war Baby Boomers!
          PS I think I saw Heinz (If I had a hammer) there, yes?

  34. I remember going the Cellar Club with some friends in 1964.
    The opening act was Davey Sands and The Essex, followed by Carl Perkins, and then an excellent band called The Quotations, who had a superb lead guitarist.

  35. Really good memories of the jazz cellar I was a regular there from 62
    till I got married in March 66 great times saw nearly all the above mentioned groups chatted with Dusty Springfield the night she was there and several other singers or band members , No egos in those days .
    I also hardly missed a Friday night at the J n A used to have our regular spot
    At the front left hand side and our regular chairs which were along the walls either side but most of the night we would stand or dance the place was packed solid then in the break next door to the pub for a black velvet . Also went to the Coronation Hall the Searchlight the RAF camp Chessington also Chessington Youth club and a venue in Esher
    In part of a school of which the name escapes me but all had some
    good groups or music, fantastic memories thank you all.

  36. I was there for the Steampacket show with Long John Baldry, Rod Stewart, Brian Auger Trinity and Julie Driscoll – great night, used to go every Saturday night but this night and the Small Faces stick in my mind the most – Happy Days and no drugs for me 😍

  37. Monday 6th June 2022 – 16.18
    My name is Colin Stoddart, lead guitarist of The Candles. I have entered in my diary that we performed at the Cellar Club on 26 February 1966, and were paid £20.

  38. Hello, I am the primary researcher on Brigitte Bond and I am hoping to connect with anyone who was present on the night of her gig on 20 March 1964. If you were there or saw Brigitte perform at any other venue during 1963-1966 (including her striptease acts in Soho), I would love to chat with you.

Leave a Reply to Gus Smith Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.