Introduction
My name is Bob Killbourn long time employee
and now editor of 'Blues and Soul' music magazine. It was inevitable
that I should meet Chris Brown who apart from having a keen interest
in R. and B. music. Was becoming one of the country's most influential
disc jockeys. By 1975 Chris and I had become close friends and I have
followed his career as a disc jockey with interest as it progressed.
When I was asked to document a few details on the musical background
of Chris I saw it as an opportunity to give some credit to someone
who has contributed so much to this music scene. Chris first became
interested in all aspects of Afro-American music whilst living in
Lancashire during the mid-1960's. Business had necessitated his father
moving North from Surrey with the family and Chris soon made new friends.
These friends were knowledgeable on blues, rhythm and blues and jazz
music. His interest developed into a passion that took him regularly
to clubs like the now legendary 'Twisted Wheel' in Manchester. In
1967 Chris's fathers work took the family back to Surrey. There were
few clubs playing music of the calibre that Chris had grown used to
and this motivated him to rectify the situation by becoming a disc
jockey himself. After two or three years of working in small clubs
and running a mobile road show sponsored by an electronics Company,
Chris decided to work in a club in Spain to gain valuable experience.
On his return to England in September 1971, Chris was offered a residency
at 'Pantiles' discotheque in Bagshot, Surrey. It was here that he
established himself as a first class disc jockey specialising in American
soul music. Chris soon found himself much in demand to do guest spots
at other clubs and venues.
In April 1977 Chris first got involved with soul all dayers when he
was asked to appear at the third 'Reading Soul Alldayer. He played
a major role in developing this regular Bank Holiday event into what
became known as the 'National Soul Festival.' in June 1977 Chris was
asked to help launch a new club with great possibilities. This club
was 'Frenchies' in Camberley, Surrey which has since proved to be
an unprecedented success. Chris has introduced internationally known
acts at concerts and regularly works alongside the top soul disc jockeys
in the country like Chris Hill, Greg Edwards and Robbie Vincent. Since
January 1978 Chris has been a regular guest on B.B.C. Radio London's
Robbie Vincent's 'Saturday Soul Show.' As Chris has been responsible
for helping to make many records chart successes most major record
companies, hoping to gain exposure in discotheques, keep him supplied
with forthcoming releases. Amongst his many contributions to the companies
Chris helped compile and segued a four track twelve inch record for
A. and M. Records in 1979. In 1980 Chris approached Mike Keam, the
owner of 'Flicks' discotheque in Dartford, Kent to finance a book
he was putting together, Mike agreed and together they formed a company
to publish the 'Family Album.' With his experience, dedication and
proven talent, Chris Brown can look forward to a promising future.
I for one wish him luck.
BOB KILLBOURN 1980
(EDITOR, BLUES AND SOUL MAGAZINE) |
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