I think of the guitar as a percussive instrument, when I play live I provide melody from my voice
Billy Bragg
Featuring Seth Lakeman
Thursday 26 October 2006
FREEDM Studio, Roundhouse, London
Photos
See live shots from the night
The legendary Bard of Barking (aka Billy Bragg) joined Gideon Coe for a chat and a run through some songs old and new in front of a frankly adoring audience that would probably have kept him there all night if they'd had half the chance.
Even though Billy forgot the chords to the opening 'Greetings To The New Brunette', no-one cared. "I only know four chords and I'm not very good at those", he remarked. Mixing up new songs (one, 'Farmboy', made its UK debut) and some classics, Bragg delivered his usual mix of wide-eyed romance and political protest; the missing link between Joe Strummer and Smokey Robinson.
Rising folk star Seth Lakeman joined Billy on two numbers to add some gutsy fiddle touches; the first a romp through 'John Barleycorn' (a traditional song enlivened by some extra Bragg lyrics involving Marmite sandwiches) and to finish, Leadbelly's 'Bourgeois Blues' (here retitled 'Bush War Blues').
Billy encored with 'A New England', dedicating a verse to the much missed Kirsty Macoll, then toasted his audience with a mug of tea. William Bloke, indeed.
Your thoughts on Billy Bragg
Tony Ward
Just watched the online gig, still a great performer one of the best lyricists of our time great stuff Billy Boy
Tracey Osborn
I absolutely loved John Barleycorn! I know the traffic and steeleye span versions, but this really touched home with it's message which I'd love to get across to some of the young people I work with (Youth Work) who are brought up in half english families, but who unfortunately with racism at the core of their thoughts. Go Billy!!!!, I saw you at Cambridge many years ago, but too much beer didn't lead to me appreciating your talent! - I'm going to listen properly from now on!!
Ryan Cordery`
It was brilliant just the thing i can listen to when i come back from work, and not have a headache! Well Done!
paul richardson
What a great place for a closeup gig from Billy,with a mix of old and new songs and with the fine addition of Seths fiddle playing.Billy's still at the top of his game,entertaining the audience with a slew of anecdotes and humour,mixed up with his well known brand of left wing politics.Great gig, more power to his elbow!
Chris
Just watched online. What a great show. The reworking of the Leadbelly track is fantastic.