What memories. I was fortunate enough as a young teenager to be mentored a bit by Francis…to go to his house and play the very latest Synclavier as a lad and for him to say ‘you can use my harpsichord at a gig if you want’ was heartfelt. Would meet the band after concerts (they were concerts not gigs😁)….they were all so generous. Francis arranged for us to record at Abbey Road. We were only 15 I think. Happy days. So sad that Kevin and Francis have passed away…..the music though to hear and play made a huge impact. The Albert Hall gigs in London were the very best. Very grateful and very very humbled to have known them….

@MahlerHolic1860

10 ай бұрын

That's amazing. His score for "The Long Good Friday" is so iconic

@michaelhiscox6873

10 ай бұрын

It was…..there was so much of his work that played (and still does) for so many incidental themes on TV…. Now you’ve got me reminiscing…. I remember just before Sky launched, he invited me and my Dad to one of his recitals in London. Front row, with John Williams turning Francis pages. That was the first time I saw him play. Queen Elizabeth Hall or Purcell Rooms about 1979 I think. Scarlatti was a favourite of his. Then he would give his time freely when I went to his house studio. The cupboard full of every kind of te imaginable. I think as 15 year olds we were pretty fearless and didn’t see fame. I still play keys to this day because of him I think. I spoke to him 2 or 3 years ago I think, and he gladly sent me some cd’s of just some demo’s he was doing (harpsichord work). Again always so generous. I have signed copies of SKY1’s white label test press, and the other first albums….but it doesn’t mean much really, at the time I was just so grateful they took the time to inspire us as young musicians. Very sad at Francis passing recently…..

Loved this band at the time! Monkman is a criminally underrated keyboard player!

@MahlerHolic1860

2 жыл бұрын

I agree! His score for The Long Good Friday is a classic.

@blastfromthepast8344

2 жыл бұрын

A criminally ripped-off composer, too! See Yes - The Ice Bridge!

@paulroberts1867

2 жыл бұрын

@@blastfromthepast8344 Yes have credited him once they realised the error.

@jasonsttarkus

Жыл бұрын

So very sad to hear of Francis's passing. A true giant of music!

@stuartwaby3081

Жыл бұрын

​@@jasonsttarkusReally? Hadn't heard this, so sad 😢RIP Mr Monkman.

Wonderful memories of Sky, and incredible musicianship! Excellent work guys, and excellent music, thank you!

@MahlerHolic1860

Жыл бұрын

I agree Mark. Saw them perform live twice. Unforgettable.

These guys ignited my desire for an Ovation Classic guitar... a desire that still burns unquenched! Brilliant band - saw them several times during their reign, and through the transition between Frances Monkman to Steve Grey - different feel, but still brilliant.

First viewing of these, thank you for posting, one of my favourites from way back, what a talented bunch of musicians.

@MahlerHolic1860

2 жыл бұрын

You're welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Great too see these, never seen them before. Thanks for posting.

@MahlerHolic1860

3 жыл бұрын

You're welcome!

RIP Francis Monkman

@MahlerHolic1860

Жыл бұрын

A brilliant musician. I love his score for The Long Good Friday.

Check out Val Doonican jamming with the band! Great links - thanks for posting

@MahlerHolic1860

3 жыл бұрын

My pleasure Rhys!

Val Doonican's guitar is out of tune at the start of Carillon. Why they didn't go for another take on the night is strange!