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David Bowie Aberdeen Scotland Bbowserd@aol.com Of course you knew Be bop a lula if you were inthe Highland of Scollanr in the 1950's but you did not know much else. It is only because of the advent of the CD that the wider audience ,like,me could get to know the complete song book and what a song book it is. We must bracket together the oustanding youthful talent of the original Blue Caps because the first two albums contain such raw genius and talent that the are masterpieces in the jigsaw puzzle of Rock n Roll. Gene was a genius but unfortunately like us all he had flaws . That was a fantastic BBC TV documentary on the later days of Genes life . It was sad to see what had become of a giant who had been "screwed" by the Rock business. But through it all his humility and generosity of spirit shone through and this should be as fitting a tribute to the man as mmuch as that legacy in music that he left. |
-Chris Eber Witten, Germany EbnerWitten@aol.com Wenn ich an K?r wie Gene Vincent oder Eddie Cochran denke, ?mmt mich die gro? Wut. Den Generationen vor uns ist zum Rock'n'Roll nichts Besseres eingefallen, als von Affenmusik zu sprechen. Sie hatten nicht das Geh?um die zutiefst menschlichen, durchaus kunstvolle T?heraus zu h?. Vielleicht hat ihnen das alte Heil-Geschrei das Geh?erdorben. Es ist aber auch eine Aufforderung, neuere Musikenwicklungen nicht leichtfertig abzutun. Es gibt da elende Schei?, nur kommerziell und mit Berechnung produziert. So was gab es ja auch in der Rock'n'Roll-Zeit. Es gibt aber auch authentische Nuggets, die es zu erkennen gilt. Und gerade so ein Authentizismus ist es, der die Werke unserer Heroen ausmacht, Elvis, Eddie, Buddy, Chuck und Jerry Lee und, auf ganz besonders feine Weise: Gene Vincent. - Chris Ebner, Rockin'Fifties Mag, Germany |
Gene Brown Greenville MI USA becca2444@hotmail.com He was one of the 50s rockers, loved his music. |
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Daniel Gigot Itterbeek BELGIUM dragj.4712@belgacom.be In 1956 when I heard Bebop A Lula for the first time I was thrilled, shaken, upset and carried away in another world by the voice of Gene Vincent and the guitar of Cliff Gallup. Now I am 60 and listening to Gene Vincent today gets still the same effect on me. |
Irene Alicante, Spain Hi, I was born in 1987 so I never seen Gene but I´m in love with him!I think he´s God! |
Gerry O'Donnell Ramsgate, Kent, England, UK terranova@supanet.com In 1962 I went to a Little Richard concert in Brighton, Sussex. LR was backed by Sounds Incorporated, a much under-rated British band. During LR's performance he said he needed a rest - I bet he did - and said he'd got someone to spell him for a few minutes. He said the fellow hadn't been able to get a UK performing licence so he'd have to sing from the auditorium. Then LR asked us to give a big hand to "GENE VINCENT" The place erupted.The audience was about 80% male, the rest being girl-friends dragged along. We just went bonkers (US.Crazy) for about ten minutes. Then Gene came through the curtains in the centre aisle and limped down to where I was sitting. I was sat on the end of a row, where I always sit when I can, because of my 36" legs. "It's Gene Vincent," I gasped to my 16 year old date, Carol. "Who?" she replied. I should have dumped her then and there. He stood next to me, ME, and sang 'Be Bop A Lula'. Wow. The place went MADDDDDDDDD! So he did an encore. That evening was made perfect when Little Richard clasped my hand and said "Thank you," to me. I've bored all my eight kids with that story. |
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Jim Caldwell Pelzer, SC USA Never met Gene, don't have any records. But I always liked his music. Iwas In my teens when he was most popular.I had a friend who was suppose to have played with him for a while. Larry Orr from Easely SC. He played piano, and steel guitar. Still love to hear him sing .Jim. |
Christene Pacheco Irvine Ca USA christekay@hotmail.com Well I Love Gene. if it wasnt for my Daddy I wouldn't of known who Gene was. my daddy loved his great music and I love his great music and rockabilly wouldn't be what it is today if it wasn't for Gene. he was the greatest and may his legend live on and his Music live forever and there's nothing like it in the entire world. may Rockabilly continue one because its the heart and soul of the music world today. Long Live Gene and his Memory Forever Love you and the Time you were in it was a Wonderful time to be in!! Rockabilly Forever!! Christie P***** |
Herschel Ritzman Newbury Park, CA he and.she@verizon.net I remember Gene Vincent's haunting voice as if it were yesterday. I was 10 years old in 1958 and would have my ears glued to my parents radio, mezmorized by Gene's voice,and the background filled with the thumping drum and resonating guitars. Thank you Gene for the memories .. .rest in peace. |
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Pat Brown Belfast, Northern Ireland Plabennec Bretagne France squawwacipi@hotmail.com Gene Vincent was a great guy and was my pop idol as they would say to-day. I was fortunate to meet him in a Belfast record shop in 1960, he signed one of his records for me and also signed my autograph book and a photograph of himself. This I treasure and have always been proud of. Gene Vincent fan for ever. |
Howard & Joan Glansfield Kettering UK HJGlansfield@aol.com Life time fans there was no one else comparable...even the great Elvis ... no one else could sing so beautifully and so sadly those great ballards and when he rocked, the house shook! My wife and I were lucky enough to see him many times and when he was on stage the electricity in the audience was amazing. The last time we saw him he was with the Shouts, not THE best band but Gene's performance and voice were faultless. Long gone but remembered with joy. Howard and Joan |
Gabrielle Sherwin Herne Bay, Kent, England artography@gabriellegorna.demon.co.uk I was laughed at by friends when I was a teenager in the '60s as I had pix all over my wall of Gene rather than Cliff or Elvis etc. But even today, when I play superb vinyl pressings of his records, I know he was exceptional. There was a heartrending emotion in his voice that cannot be compared with anyone else. I saw him on stage at Stockport, England in about '63 clad in his black leather. He was brilliant of course. I wish I had known him. He must never be forgotten. His life was so short and tragic yet he had the voice of an angel. Today acknowledged as a true pioneer of rock n roll, sadly in his lifetime, he never received the fame he deserved. My favourite tracks are' My Heart,' 'The Night is so Lonely' and 'In Love Again' My Favourite albums are 'Sounds Like Gene Vincent', Crazy Times' and a Gene Vincent Record Date'. I have all his records. I am so glad so many people here keep his memory alive. He is often in my thoughts although I never met him, its as if I knew him |
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H .WILLIAMSON PARIS, FRANCE Plabennec Bretagne France hervewilliamson@yahoo.fr Gene's death left a big hole in our hearts. |
martin mitchell england mtch649@aol.com Gene Vincent, a true giant of rock n roll. What a joke! it took so long for him to be voted into the rock n roll hall of fame. His music will live forever! |
bill evans atlantic city, new jersey, u.s.a. yconfoeti@hotmail.com gene, you are a true rocker i hope you are up there singing a song with elvis. they dont make em like you anymore your friend, bill |
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Radio RCF Rivages Dominique Lemarechal Plabennec Bretagne France dominique.lemarechal@9online.fr Il est le plus grand des rockeurs. Il a su rester lui m? toute sa vie (de rockeur) Il est toujours dans mon coeur et toujours vivant en 2003 grace a un chanteur qui lui rend toujours hommage, j'ai nomm?rvin Travis que j'ai pu voir le 29 novembre 2003 ?oncarneau (Bretagne France) -Dominique |
Rick Burton London England rick@pumphouse.co.uk If anyone saw Gene at The Finsbury Park Astoria - please get in touch, I would love to hear your memories - for a book on the Theatre I'm writing |
Don DNA Lockwood Port Alberni, B.C. donlockwood@shaw.ca Gene Vincent was pure rockabilly when he did rockabilly. He also was true to blues when he did blues. His talent was natural. He didn't need artificial help. I model my own singing, firstly after Gene and secondly after Elvis and others like Ritchie Valens. For all of you who like Gene, Keep on Rockin'. I even put a little bit of Gene into my Biology teaching in Port Alberni.It keeps the students alive and enthusiastic. |
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TED EATON LINCOLNSHIRE, ENGLAND consul1959@btinternet.com SWEET GENE VINCENT. THE LEATHER CLAD REBEL YET YOU HAD A VOICE OF AN ANGEL. THE PAIN YOU MUST HAVE BEEN IN WITH YOUR LEG AND YET YOURE STAGE SHOWS WERE WILD, THERE WAS NO TAMIN THIS WILD CAT. YOURE DEDICATION TO THE MUSIC AND YOUR FANS WAS 200%. AS I PLAY YOUR MUSIC EVERYDAY MY FAVORITE BEING ... ''IMPORTANT WORDS'' YOU WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART. SWEET GENE VINCENT, WE LOVE YOU |
Valdo Portugal valpan2003@yahoo.com Saudades pelo grande Homen que era. |
Rockin Rick Bodoky Cudahy, WI. USA rockabillyrick@netzero.net From the first time I ever heard Gene's recordings I felt he was one of the best in the business. I don't think he ever recorded a clunker. I believe that Gene knew that rockabilly wasn't meant to be kept in a box. It's a music from the past, but also for today and the future. Two of the best examples of this I think are his recordings of "WORDS AND MUSIC", and "SLOW TIMES COMIN". Can you dig it? Much respect. Rockin Rick. |
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rob anderson scotland orkeast@aol.com I was born in 65 and brought up with gene. my father was and still is like me a loyal fan. i have lots of g.v lps, most of them original i'm sure. i say this for all gene's fans, he will live in our hearts forever keep rockin folks ... rob |
Gerald R. Smith Talladega, Alabama, USA gsmith123@bellsouth.net |
Tyler Last Buloxi nocompassneeded@yahoo.com Gene Vincent surpassed Elvis in every way. Although "Mystery Train" comes close, Elvis never really rocked like Gene. A song such as "Jezabel" can't be beat. Even Gene's personal style was tops: the sneer, the leather, the hair - all much more raw and raucous than Elvis. Gene hands down. RIP, but long live Rockabilly. |
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B. Simpson Orkney Islands, Scotland orkeast@aol.com Great singer. |
Mark Hamilton Hindley, Wigan, England The one & only true king of Rock 'n' Roll / Rock-A-Billy. Taken from this world in his prime. He will never be forgotten. |
wildcat smcc mad dog daz york england Your records lift me when im low and always take me back to the good times. your stage act was wild a real wildcat. Remembered always, my favorite tune is Wedding Bells because it tells you how life really is - rock on forever |
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Janice Lowe Kidderminster Worcestershire England lowe_jan@hotmail.com I saw Gene in England several times he was well what can l say the best l lived his music and best of all l loved him. I will never ever forget him. Jan |
METZ (France) cezard.christian@wanadoo.fr Bravo pour ce site afin que Gene vive ?amais comme le R'n'R.Il restera le meilleur rocker que le monde est vu naitre. Sa voix me tire encore des soupirs depuis qu'il s'est ? int. VIVE GENE VINCENT, BUDDY HOLLY ET EDDIE COCHRAN THE THREE STARS!!! |
Asko Varjorinne FINLAND asko_varjorinne@hotmail.com Thank you Gene, we don't forget you ever! |
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Deltour Patrice FRANCE gene.vincent@free.fr continuez c est SUPER pour gene |
Marc Marseille, BDR, France Marc0568@aol.com Just Thank you Gene. |
Jason Martinko Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania USA Tinkotalk@aol.com Gene Vincent is the saddest, sweetest voice I have ever heard. A voice that still makes me cry sometimes. He will always be my top favorite rock'n'roller. No one else can touch him. He could rock harder than anybody and then sing a song like "Weeping Willow". To me, Gene Vincent is the purest singer I have ever heard and I must say I even put him above Elvis. He is truly real. I will always love Gene Vincent. |
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JIM WEHMEYER DAVENPORT IOWA AVONDIA@MSN.COM GENE VINCENT WAS ONE OF THE BEST, TO BAD HE HASNT BEEN RECOGNIZED MORE FOR HIS MUSIC & TALENT. |
Richie Clift Columbus, Indiana, USA richieclift@hotmail.com I saw Gene live in London on several occasions at places like the London Palladium,East Ham and Tooting Granadas. Wallington Public Halls and on a show with Brenda Lee at Lewisham Gaumont called The King and Queen of Rock and Roll. I also remember some TV appearances especially one for the BBC with Jerry Lee Lewis. I moved to the USA some 15 months ago and have been to the Little Opry in Nashville Indiana to see Brenda Lee and also a guy called Blair Carman who does some Jerry Lee and Gene Vincent songs in a wonderful act. To the English Gene was truly the King of Rock and Roll simply because Elvis never appeared live in England but I find it hard to imagine Elvis being anywhere near as good as Gene was live. I have 202 tracks that he recorded in my collection and there just isn't a bad one amongst them - next week (Sept. 14-21, 2003) I am going on vacation to visit Norfolk Virginia where Gene was born and I will always be his biggest fan - Richie Clift - Columbus, Indiana |
Bill "Doc" Dunn Griffin, Ga. USA docfromga@aol.com ROCK ON GENE |
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Dixie Dan Beaconsfield, England jo_and_paul_danbury@hotmail.com The first time I saw Gene was in about 1967/1968 at the Northcote Arms in Southall. I remember him singing Hank Williams' "Lonesome Whistle". He was holding on to those notes and looking skyward, he was just fantastic. I will NEVER EVER forget him. God Bless you Gene. RIP |
Rick Rae Conyer, Georgia rick.rae@gcslink.com I was born and raised in Ontario, Canada. In the spring of 1957 we scored some tickets to a rock and roll show in Toronto. It was held at the Casino Theatre and we all piled into a buddy's '41 Cadillac and headed for the big T.O. The show opened with Marty Robbins who still was trying to find his way and couldn't decide if he wanted to be a country singer or a rock and roller. Then came the Drifters and finally, the top billed act, Gene and the Blue Caps. Gene had his leg in a cast from the recent motorcycle accident but that didn't stop him from rolling around on stage like nothing we had ever seen before. This was also one of the last times that Cliff Gallup would tour with them and his crystal clear guitar riffs sent shivers up your back. I only wish I had some kind of recording device that afternoon so I could share the moments with everone who missed it. Rick Rae, Conyers, Georgia |
The Crazy Caps France, now England crazycaps2@aol.com Hello all. Have you heard of the great band The Crazy Caps? as you must already know us! we will always play and love Gene music for ever and ever! We grew up in the sixtees in Germany (Reutlingen) and French schools. Strange you may think, but so much memory of these days!!!! And Rock and Roll and Gene, Elvis, Duane Eddy etc. were the beginning of The Crazy Caps! The Crazy Caps started in 1978 in sunny south of France near St Tropez. Some of you probably recognised the name I am sure of that! We played big concerts in many places in the 1980s then in Port Grimaud (South of France) between 1984 and 1987 and now (in England). We were singing some beautiful songs from Gene almost like he would or the Crazycaps would do!! We played once at the Golf Druot in Paris in Paris in 1981, just like Gene would perform in the sixtees. We had to do that of course! Rock and roll is here for ever and we will continue like Gene would have done! We have a new cd coming soon in October! If you want more infos about the Crazy Caps. please email at crazycaps2@aol.com |
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Jiri Simon Prague, Czech Republic guitarman@seznam.cz I guess that Gene was the greatest rockabilly singer of all the time. He inspired many rock'n'roll bands in our country and he always will be remembered. |
Weskm241@aol.com Gene Vincent or Eugene Vincent Craddock was the best rock & roller ever. It`s a lifetime shame, that no magazine no charts and no discjockey noticed it. But in my heart Gene is the greatest musician ever and forever. |
Ian Dunbar Parksville, B.C. Canada iandunbar@shaw.ca Gene Vincent was always my idol, not Elvis, Jerry Lee or Ricky Nelson. I wore my hair like his, dressed like him and most of all tried to sound like him. I remember taping a song (LOTTA LOVIN') using his background and dubbing my voice and playing it for my classmates back in 1958. I was very proud because my classmates thought it was Gene and it actually was me. Gene Vincent will always live in my memories and my thoughts. I never did get to see Gene perform in person but I will bet he was DYNAMITE. |
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julien benin ayocolejulien@yahoo.fr je tiens à avoir un emploie à l'extérieur. |
TIMETRAVELJ16 I THINK GENE VINCENT IS THE GREATST ROCK-ROLLER IN THE WORLD. I WISH I COULD HAVE KNOWN HIM REST IN PEACE. |
manfred goerke cuxhaven, germany haddock7103@msn.com er war einer der ganz großen,die die rock`n roll ära geprägt haben. sein beeb babe luba,war der schlachtruf einer ganzen generation. |
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Bruce Johnson Langhorne, PA bj1019@aol.com I almost feel sorry for today's youth, because they didn't get to grow up with Gene Vincent, Eddie Cochran, Buddy Holly, Jerry Lee Lewis, Elvis Presley, Joe Bennett, Chuck Berry, Little Richard ... and on and on. I still have my original 45 of Be-Bop-A-Lula ... and nothing beat the intro to Lotta Lovin' (except maybe Lou Reed's Sweet Jane). There's no question that the early rock 'n roll is still the best. Beatles, Stones (with Brian Jones), Springsteen, Van Halen ... all good. But give me Gene and Eddie and Buddy any day. |
tadaght batna, algeria code postal*05000* nono@caramail.com cd muisic gratuit |
QUARESMA, ANTONIO ADEL RIO DE JANEIRO, BRASIL ADEL@HIGHWAY.COM.BR IN THE FIFTIES, IN RIO DE JANEIRO, GENE VINCENT WAS SO POPULAR THAN ELVIS, LITTLE RICHARD, BILL HALEY AND OTHER GREATS. I LEARN TO LOVE ROCK N' ROLL MAINLY WITH GENE VINCENT. THERE WAS IN SIXTIES A BRAZILIAN GROUP NAMED RENATO AND HIS BLUE CAPS. THEY SANG BEATLES SONGS WITH VERSES IN PORTUGUESE, BUT GENE VINCENT WAS THE INSPIRATION TO THEM. ADEL |
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John Gaston Ft. Worth, TX jgbg1@yahoo.com LONG LIVE ROCK N ROLL, LONG LIVE GENE VINCENT |
Carlos Manuel Reus Lima, Peru carlos_reus@hotmail.com I was born in 1972, so I was not even alive when Gene Vincent passed away. However, I like his music. I think he was a great rock and roller. He is the King of Rockabilly. He was influential to Rock and Roll, and even The Beatles were influenced by him. Up to today I listen to Gene Vincent. He was really a Wild Cat! His image and sound were great. Long Live Gene Vincent! |
Roy London, England roy@phillipsdrum.freeserve.co.uk I have been a pro rock musician for 25 years simply because of Elvis & Gene. Thanks for everything guys. |
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Norman Abjorensen fernelmont, BELGIUM Queanbeyan, NSW, Australia The greatest of them all ... a bluesman trapped in the hype of the times. The three-octave voice range is breathtaking; the life tragic; the joy he gave eternal. Rock on, Gene baby. Love you forever |
Hollianne Roberts RobertsHol@msn.com I am new on the computer and did not realize a Gene Vincent Club existed. Can you please write me back and tell me how I might join. What can you say about someone who was so cool that one can not describe in publishable words? |
Gary B Boise, ID USA gbores@rmci.net I don't think Gene gets enough credit for all his contributions to the Rock n Roll movement. Still think many of his records are some of the greatest of all time. Saw him in person in Fruitland, Idaho in the later years. He was still fantastic. Anyway, Gene rocks on forever. |
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Pallavisino Claudy fernelmont, BELGIUM claudy-nadine@skynet.be I have 50 years old and in my heart GENE VINCENT is always the king of rock'n' roll !!! |
phoebe Cornwall Bottomof Britain Hello all Gene Lovers. I've only really got into Gene Vincent, I'm 15 and walk around in DMs, Blue Jeans, White TShirt and a Black leather Jacket. I know it sounds stupid and commerical and i am sorry just i dont know any better. I'd like to say THANK YOU GENE!! because you have got me out of a whole of mods, punks and a**hole townies. |
Dean Prescott Bend, Oregon USA mirrortimes@aol.com I really got into Gene when I read the book "The day the world turned blue". Not sure but it seems Gene lived in Oregon for a while. What I would give to have seen you in concert. Reading all these messages makes me feel like I was there. I'm gonna go crank Gene up on the stereo right now! Keep the music alive. Rock on ... Bop till we drop. Missin' Eddie too. Dean |
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col gold coast, Be Bop a Lula did not impact on so much at first, as I was very much a Bill Haley fan (and incidentally, President of his Australian fan club) It was a different type of music for me. Then came Blue Jean Baby, still one of my very favorites, and I went back to Be Bop a Lula, seeing and understanding that rock was changing, and here was one of the great architects. Seeing him on stage at the Sydney Stadium, as they came on stage, and the drummer threw dozen or so sticks onto the snare so that they bounced out into the audience. This was great, and his show was phenomenal. I found some old stuff of his, like pistol packin momma, Peg o' my heart etc. badly recorded, but still good. I have carefulle taped them so I have a tape of his in the car at all times. Bill will always be my favorite, but Gene will stay in my heart as pone of the sadly gone immortals. His appearance in The girl can't help it was great. Col |
Gary Cartwright London, England postmaster@gcartwright.demon.co.uk I caught the Gene Vincent bug from my dad and my uncle when I was about 12. I'm 41 now. Older, wiser, and some of my tastes have changed, but when I hear the intros to those old Blue Caps tracks, the hair on the back of my neck stands on end. It doesn't get much better than that. LONG LIVE ROCK 'N' ROLL!!! |
MICKEY NORTON HOOPA, CA U.S.A. micnorton2003@yahoo.com I was very lucky to have gene vincent & the blue caps music in my life from a very early age. my eldest brother being married to his daughter melody. I also grew up with vince, calling their mother aunty Dee. I'm 35 years old now and teaching my 7 year old neice Emerald the words to Be-bop-a-loola. Not to mention singing it in the shower. So paying tribute to a good man with a great voice. Hollywood should really make a movie about his life!!!! |
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Queff lec lucky jean-luc paris 18 me FRANCE I STAY AND I WILL STAY A VERY BIG FAN ABOUT GENE. HE IS THE BEST SINGER FROM THE 50'S, 60'S AND NOW!!! We love you gene, GOD BLESS YOU! |
Roger Johnson
Devils Lake, North Dakota U.S.A. roguer57@stellarnet.com I can't believe that no one has commented on Gene's touring in the early 60s. I was the piano player with a band known as the Tornados, in 1960 & '61. Gene was in the Upper Midwest area doing shows for 300 dollars a night. Our band, the Tornados backed Gene as "The Blue Caps". Gene Vincent was a true pioneer in the world of real Rock and Roll. He was fun to work with too. I remember working a gig in Fort William-Port Arthur, Ontario, Canada. The Dance was held in a hockey arena and the kids wore their boots to dance on the ice. The worst part of the dance was Gene trying to get out to the stage with his braces. I will never forget the sight. We were stopped on the U.S. Canada border because the Canadian Government would not let us in without our posting bond on each band member. We were forced to stay at the border and went into the little bar there where we drank beer for about 5 hours while the booking agent from Canada drove down and posted the bond. We really needed the rest, as over night we had driven from Hancock, Michigan, around Lake Superior. It had been snowing heavily and I drove the Road Managers car, with Gene in the passenger seat. He had recently returned from England and Eddie Cochran's Death. The poor man was scared to death in the passenger seat all night long, while, the road manager, who was a Minnesota man, slept in the back seat, oblivious to everything that had been happening. There is a lot more to tell ... but suffice it to say that I am very honored to say that I worked with the man Gene Vincent. It is one of my pleasant memories of my time in Rock and Roll. I miss him very much! |
Philippe "Rocky" Dupuy France dupuy-philippe@wanadoo.fr Merci pour ce site trÈs bien documentÈ qui prÈsente un artiste du RnR inoubliable. J'ai eu le plaisir de voir son show ý Nice, vers 62 ou 63, je ne sais plus la date, mais je me souviens encore trÈs bien de cette soirÈe!! Gene est toujours vivant ! |
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sean wynne london, england wynne1956@hotmail.com I got into Gene Vincent back in the 1980's when I was 13 years old. I am now 35 and I still dig him. As long as I am alive he will still be the Screaming End. God Bless Sweet Gene Vincent! Please keep me informed of any news on Gene. |
Thorbjorn Hansen Trondheim Norway torbh3@online I have always been a huge fan of Gene Vincent. Ever since i heard him for the first time sometimes in the early sixties. His wonderful way of singing ballads is just great! He will never be forgotten! |
EVELYN BRIANCON. HTES ALPES. FRANCE. I'm the sister's ERVIN TRAVIS. I LOVE GENE. HE'S my life. All my life; AND when i sing the GENE's songs i've got tears in my eyes. THANK's to ervin for his interpretations of GENE. THIS MAN is in my heart forever and more and more ... |
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dave hendry liverpool england just glad to see we all miss him |
I R Jacobs 26 Norris Rise, Hoddesdon Hertfordshire EN11 8RF England Having accessed the web site for over the last couple of years, I feel it's my turn to tell you of my experience of Gene Vincent. I first latched on to Gene when I was 15 years old living in Sezsdom just outside London. I heard Be-Bop-A-Lula coming out of our local record store. I had a collection pf all his tracks until during the early seventies I could not pay the rent on my house so I had to sell my collection. I have since collected all his available tracks on CD I have seen Gene live on four occasions: The Civic Hall, Croydom Granada, Tooting Broadway Fairfield, Finsbury Park Astoria, all in the London area. I have read "Race With the Devil" and "Sweet Gene Vincent" - not happy reading but a must for any Vincent fan. I have tried to get a copy of "The Day The World Turned Blue", but have not succeeded. His music has brought me much happiness over the last 45 years and I feel his recording of "Sunshine" is one of his best. It gave me goose bumps when I first heard it. I know there is other material out there. Let's hope Magnum Force can get it out on CD for us. - I. R. Jacobs ! |
Bill MacDonald Elk River, Minnesota...USA LordRegnoff@excite.com I first heard Gene in the winter of 1956 while stationed at Itazuki Air Force Base, Japan. He was singing Be-Bop-A-Lula on the radio while I was eating a grilled-cheese sandwich and sipping tomato soup at the local PX. I have no idea why I remember those details but I do know that was my first exposure to true Rock and Roll music. I followed Gene through the years until his death of ulcers 15 years later. Long live his memory... |
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Christopher Giles Torquay, Devon, England christophercgiles@hotmail.com My cousin Bill Martin and I used to run a Rock & Roll dance at The Fishmongers Arms in Wood Green London in the 70s. Gene appeared once the second booking he didnt make. We were told he had had his earnings frozen in England by the courts. We heard later he had gone to northern ireland the day before crossed the border to southern ireland with his earnings and flewn back to the states. Nice one! Keep on Rockin. |
LARRY A. NELSON EAGAN, MN. USA larrynelson10@juno.com I AM 62 YRS YOUNG! I SEEN GENE & THE BLUE CAPS IN ABOUT 1958-59, I WAS ABOUT 18 ... ANYWAY THEY PERFORMED AT THE FIESTA BALLROOM IN MONTEVIDEO, MINNESOTA. I WILL NEVER FORGET IT!! I WENT ON TO PLAY IN LOCAL BANDS MYSELF AS A DRUMMER ... B BOP LULA WAS ONE OF THE SONGS WE DID FOR AT LEAST 25 YRS. HOWEVER NOBODY COULD DO IT LIKE GENE!! |
Brett Lowden NY brettlowden@hotmail.com I love his music. |
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karl may southend, essex, uk mchlmay@aol.com What can I say that hasn't already been said? I came to this site expecting a few dedications! This man has done more for music than most artists today combined. His energtic style of rock n roll/rockabilly music rivals the king, even if it didn't sell as many records. Gene was always one of the greatest in my eyes. |
arthur simmons (slim) southbourne w sussex england arfur@fsmail.net i saw gene at the rex ballroom bognor regis west sussex the last time he was in the uk a memory i allways cherish rock on gene |
Bob Robertson Glenrothes, Fife, Scotland boboshantyuk@yahoo.co.uk It is an honour to have an opportunity to express my tribute to a teen' hero! Summer for the past 20 years have included Gene and his Bluecaps without fail. The whole ensemble were genius ... LOVE the Rockin' times with Gene and my Friends through the years, long may they continue. The MAN is an icon. Praise be ... Big up to all who care. HE ROCKS , WHO ROCKS? GENE ROCKS. YEAH!!! |
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Babs* Mapleton, Maine bturner@ainop.com All music should be like this ... :) Niece to the original rythm guitar player "Wee Willie Williams". Great site. |
Athushi Misaki kobe japan misaking@hera.eonet.ne.jp Gene Vincent & Eddie Cochran !!!!!! |
Mike McKay Arnold, Missouri disp@msn.com Gene was my Rock & Roll hero when I was a teenager, surpassing even Elvis on my list. There hasn't been a band or vocal sound since Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps. I'm sure if Gene were still with us, he'd be still playing. Maybe even Vegas ... |
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Ralf Fahlstrom Helsinki Finland ralf.fahlstrom@suomi24.fi A true Gene Vincent fan. |
LONE WOLF, MICKY MALAGA, SPAIN ROCKIN RACE CLUB Saludos a todos los Fans del Principe de Virginia, en especial a los EspaÒoles. Hey GENE, no olvides el 9 ATTACK, ROCKIN RACE JAMBOREE, que tendra lugar en Torremolinos el Sabado 15 de Febrero de 2oo3, Malaga, EspaÒa. Toma tu nave espacial, y bajate con nosotros a disfrutar de ... MACARMA, Spain. MEGATONES, Spain. SPACE CADETS, G.B, Y los originales Rockabilly Rebels MATCHBOX G.B.Mientras, ya estoy limpiando tus viejos 45,s. para que suenen como tienen que sonar ........ KISSES FOR TEDDY GIRLS. |
Larry Devil France Gene my man, everytime I hear you rocking I feel my heart beat. |
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Jim Whittle jwhittle@studfold.freeserve.co.uk Hi to you all! Many years ago, in a different life to the one I have now, I was the bass player in a band called The Puppets. We backed Gene on a tour of Germany playing, among other venues, the Star Club Hamburg and the Star Palast in Kiel. We also were his band for 13 weeks at the Aquarium Theatre in Great Yarmouth and the following year at the South Pier in Blackpool (all in England for the Americans out there!). We rented a house which we shared with Gene and Jackie his girlfriend. Sadly, I have only one photo of those crazy days & would love to be able to find some more. Can anybody help? By the way, the other members of the band were: Dave Millen, guitar, Des O'Reilly, drums, and Don Parfitt on organ. Don wasn't with us on the Germany gig. I could write a book about those days - Gene's exploits with a bullwhip, poker parties, etc. We also backed him a couple of times on Saturday Club ( BBC Radio). I live in hope that someone might have a photo or two - and maybe a decent recording! Rock On, Jim Whittle |
Claude Chaluleau Pont-Aven France mimosa.rock@wanadoo.fr I've been a fan of Gene for 40 years now and I will always remember that dayin september 1967 when he came to Bannalec FinistËre France). The group who accompanied him was The Rock and Roll Gang. After the show, he asked me to drive him and Jackie Frisco to Quimper (Some 30 km away) where he had his hotel . Oh BOy!, of course I accepted! On the following day, we spent the whole day together talking, having autographs and of course sipping down a few beers .I have a few photos of those 2 days that I cherish and while writing this I can look at myself with Gene and the medallion he borrowed from me for his show . I still try to have as many records as possible from different countries (France, Britain, The USA, Japan, Germany, Spain, Chile, Australia, New Zealand ... GENE IS THE KING OF ROCK'N'ROLL! Claude |
Mike McKay St. Louis, Mo disp@msn.com I never had the chance to see Gene in person, even thou he preformed in St.Louis at the Casa Loma Ballroom back when. There was no way my parents would let me go and see him.I have several of his albums 45, 33-1/3. Gene was in "The Girl Can't Help It" which was cool but I saw him another movie at a drive-in. I forced 3 other friends to go and see it as the 3rd movie of the evening (after mid-night), the movie "Hot Rod Gang ". I have never heard or read anything about it again. It was the first time to hear Gene speak and just not sing. I've talked to other people, who are Gene Vincent fans but they have never heard of the movie. This movie left an impression on on my mind since I saw it. I collect VHS and DVD video. Does anyone know how to get a copy of this movie????. Please e-mail me. When I saw the movie I was in my teens, now I'm 59 next to 60. I lied to people older than me in my teens to see the movie. Now I am one of those (age) I lied to. Where do I go to get a copy??? Thanks Gene for your part of my life. Mike |
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David R. Edser-Lands Welling, Kent, England dave@be-boplands.fsnet.co.uk I was there at the Granada Tooting when they plastered Gene Vincent's name across the poster of Marty Wilde. He wore a red top and black peg leg slacks. I was mesmerised. I now live close to the property he lived in (112 Upper Wickham Lane in Welling). I think of him every time I pass by.He is the epitomy of a rock and roll singer and had a voice like no other. My one wish is to see the full un-edited sequence he did for The Girl Can't Help It. Gene Vincent was one of the rock and roll originals. Long may he be remembered. |
RUBI (Barcelona)-SPAIN jmatarinrodriguez@hotmail.com DescubrÌ al bueno de Gene, en el 60, y me fascinÛ, por encima de los BEATLES, ELVIS etc. A™n hoy dÌa, escuchar su m™sica es revitalizante, LOS CIMIENTOS DEL ROCK NO SE PUEDEN CONCEBIR SIN VINCENT. Estoy de acuerdo que perdurar· siempre. |
John Belsham Winchester Hants UK JBelsham@aol.com I was a teenager in South London in the late 70's early 80's, hanging around the Brixton, Streatham and West Norwood area, About 50 or so of us hung out at all the Rockin Clubs in London and further a field, we were all Gene Vincent fans, to this day the man moves me with his music,We would all get up and rock to Crusin, I flipped and so many other classic, I was lucky enough to see the Blue Caps in Caistor one year, I remember getting Gene Vincent tattooed on my neck,At 17 years old,( my mum went spastic !) he formed a big part of my life in my young days, a true wildcat to the end. Thank you Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps, your music and legends will never die. |
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andy bray leatherhead, surrey, england Bray@gv71.fsnet.co.uk A lot of things happen in life, and alot of things change! One thing I'll always have is Gene. I only wish I could have met you. May your name live on and rest in peace. |
Justin DeNova Florida Rockabilly_idol@yahoo.com Gene Vincent Rocks! & his Blue Caps roll. |
Mary Virginia Shrieves Va. Beach, Va. spoolman2@cox.net I knew Gene when we were in our teen-age years, so that was in the early 50's. We went to the same church and were really good friends. I was so happy when he made it in the music business for he truely deserved it. I was sadden to hear of his death at such an early age. I know he will always be remembered to me as one of the great rock and roll singers. |
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JESUS GOMEZ "BUDDY" ELEJIDO, ALMERIA, ESPA‹A buddyritchiebigrockers@hotmail.com GENE VINCENT ESPERO QUE EN EL CIELO ORGANICES UNA BUENA FIESTA EL DIA 12, SALUDA A TU AMIGO EDDIE Y DALE RECUERDOS A ***BUDDY HOLLY, RITCHIE VALENS Y BIG BOOPER*** , YO ME TOMARE UNAS CERVEZAS A TU SALUD AQUI EN LA TIERRA, NOS VEMOS PRONTO ... |
Dead Fred Essex, England octavelondon@tesco.net We were hard up, no record player in our house, but our radio was always on in '57, yard was full of dads old bike bits. Somehow my 10 year old mind fused Be Bop a Lula = Vincent Black Shadow. That was then. Now I put on Goin Home by G.V. That's ton-up music '60s style ... Later my wife found Weeping Willow and here was another side. G.V. and E.C. still get played in this house, on our own record player. Good luck to all of you. D.F. (Still biking after all these years) |
Tony Wilkinson Waxowilko@aol.com New Gene Vincent Book: At long last, and having been on my Christmas wants list for the past three times when Santa came a calling, the following book finally arrived yesterday - 'Sweet Gene Vincent - The Bitter End' by Steven Mandich and published in the UK by Orange Syringe Publications. A quick flip through reveals that the 180 page paperback book is in a diary format concentrating mainly on Gene's final years, describing event(s) that took place on certain dates and includes quotations. It also contains plenty of photographs. |
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Alex Ruiz SPAIN alru30@hotmail.com Gene,you was the best rock'n'roller. Since I first hear your voice I feel you was a great singer and something special, very different to the other rock stars. You're my idol, you was rockabilly rebel Gene. You're in heaven dressed in black. I sure miss you, Black Prince!! |
Mick Jones gravesend, kent, england wagloons@aol.com Gene exploded onto my consciousness in The Girl Can't Help It which i saw on holiday. Then Boy Meets Girls blew my mind. does anyone remember Gene & Eddie doing My Heart together? Eddie retuned his guitar before the song & it sounded so different! Since then i've been hooked! After that i saw him whenever possible & was never disappointed at a show. At package shows first & then at local shows where he would be feet away from me on the small stage. Once i got his autograph on my arm & had it tattooed in the next day! Never to be removed! His death was a great loss to me & still hurts, especially as 12th. oct. approaches. At least his music will never die, thanks for the rockin' times Gene. |
pablo cash almeria (spain) pablocash@hotmail.com quiero decir que gene vincent ha sido y es mi maxima influencia en el mundo del rock and roll ... es mi idolo musical he intento adquirir en todo lo que me sea posible discos y otros articulos de el ... viva gene vincent ... "importand word" |
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NORM JAGO SAN CLEMENTE, CALIF USA NRJAGO@AOL.COM I HAD THE PLEASURE OF MEETING GENE AND APPEARING WITH GENE IN THE 60'S IN U K AND GERMANY IT WAS A THRILL FOR ME .GENE WAS IN A LOT PAIN BUT WHEN HE GOT ON STAGE YOU WOULD NEVER KNOW IT. STILL ONE OF THE GREATEST ROCK AND ROLL SONGS BE BOPA LU LA |
John E. Maddison. Grimsby, England, N.E. Lincolnshire jokjmad@aol.com Back in '66 WATCHED A t.v. PROG. DONT KNOCK THE ROCK, FIRST UP GENE SINGING BE BOP A LULA. AT 15 YRS OLD I WAS HOOKED ON TO R.N.R. NOW AT THE AGE OF 51. STILL PLAYING R.N.R. IN A BAND. STILL SING AND PLAY AT GIGS, BE BOP A LULA, SAY MAMA, BABY BLUE, DANCE THE BOP, ROCKY ROAD BLUES. LOVED AND STILL LOVE GENE'S MUSIC AND SONGS HOPE TO KEEP PLAYING HIS STUFF FOR LONG TIME YET. IN THE WORDS OF D.J. EMPORER ROSKO, ROCK ON. JOHN (JOHNNY VINCENT) MADDISON. |
Kathie Walters Modesto , CA USA K12Walters@aol.com My encounter with Gene Vincent's music came to me by way of his children. I am the ex-sister-in-law of Melody Jean Vincent Craddock Genes eldest daughter. He has a son Vincent Gene Craddock. Both of his children have children and granchildren and they keep his memory very much alive. And they are the most giving people I know. Their mother Darlene has done a good job at raising their kids and has helped keep their fathers legacy alive. |
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ANDY QUY SOLIHULL jimquy@hotmail.com (CONTINUING MY TRIBUTE!) I REGARD GENE AS FAR-AND-AWAY THE GREATEST OF ALL THE ORIGINAL ROCKERS, AND ALTHOUGH MANY OTHERS WOULD (AND HAVE!) DISPUTED MY OPINION, I WILL FIGHT GENE'S CORNER FOR EVERMORE! (ITS MY CORNER AS WELL) THE "UPS AND DOWNS"OF BEING A GENE VINCENT FAN BECAME A MAJOR PART OF MY LIFE'S PATTERN,I REALLY LIVED IT ALL! IN CONCLUSION I CAN ONLY STATE THAT ON REFLECTION HOW GLAD I AM TO HAVE BEEN SUFFICIENTLY BORED AS TO GO INTO A PIER POP PACKAGE SHOW NEARLY 40 YEARS AGO, - WHAT I SAW AND HEARD THAT NIGHT HAS REMAINED WITH ME EVER SINCE. |
Mel Atkinson Worcester, England Melatkin@aol.com The first record I ever bought was the Hot Rod Gang E.P. After all these years I still have this record. I remember when we first heard Gene was to perform in our local theatre/cinema, in 1960, we tried to buy tickets weeks in advance. When we finally managed to get them we payed six shillings {about 30 pence) for the best seats in the house. It was well worth the wait. Nowadays my passion is for American cars (it was then, but I was too young to drive) and at our shows the D.J. always plays a good selection of Gene Vincent record. Even young people stop to listen, although many of them have no real idea who Gene Vincent was. |
Arnold Vinkeles Berlin, Germany avi@concertidee.de This cat was really jumpin'. He's one of greatest rockabilly singers the world has ever witnessed. |
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Malcolm Stacey Tenby, South Wales, Britain perkins.stacey@btinternet.com I was a local reporter in Yorkshire, England in l964. I had to cover a Little Richard show at the local theatre. Gene Vincent was in the audience, but was not allowed to perform because he did not have a visa to appear in Britain. He came back stage and watched Little Richard perform. I was by his side. He was captivated by Little Richard's performance, almost falling onto the stage in his excitement. He was incredibly polite, called me sir, though I was only sixteen, and said his favourite recording was Be-Bop-A Lula. A real gentleman, and obviously extremely dedicated to rock n' roll. I met all the greats of Rock n Roll at that theatre over the years - but none more exciting a singer than Gene Vincent. If he'd had a few more really good songs to record, he would have been extremely famous today. |
gene davis ashland ohio usa gene@ohioradio.com When you think of the early pioneers of rock you think of elvis, buddy, little richard, the killer, fats, eddie and gene and thats it. they were the roots ... the tree has grown and now has many branches. Gene and the Blue Caps made a huge impact on me and the rest of my generation. Now thanks to Capitol's re-release of Gene's early work, new generations will be able to experience the music. I also want to thank Gene's great drummer..Dickie Harrell. I met him at a radio station I worked at when he came in for an interview in the early 70s. What a great guy and rightfully proud of his part in rock history. Gene's legend and his music live on. |
Andy Quy Solihull West Midlands jimquy@hotmail.com August 1964 a hot summer's evening in Great Yarmouth with nothing to do but go to the Pier Pop Package Show,not then realising that my life was about to be changed forever! Although not originally scheduled to appear Gene was announced as a last minute "Special Guest Star", and he was on stage,accompanied by The Shouts, midway through the first half. The second half of the show featured the likes of Mark Wynter, The Applejacks, etc. but no matter,-I had been captured for life by what I had seen and heard for those all too brief minutes earlier in the evening! For the next 40 years I have been a true Gene Vincent devotee,-rarely a day goes by without my playing some of his wealth of material. |
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Mike Vincent Summerville, SC. USA MikeVincent999@aol.com or comcast.com IT WAS 1957 AND IT WAS THE ARAGON BALLROOM IN CHICAGO MOSTLY FAMOUS FOR BIG BANDS AND BALLROOM DANCING..BUT TONIGHT IT WAS STARTING A NEW VENUE ROCK N ROLL WAS REPLACING THE GLENN MILLER AND THE HARRY JAMES..IT WAS NEW AND IT WAS WILD. IT WAS A LATE SEPTEMBER NIGHT AND IT WAS GENE VINCENT AND THE BLUECAPS TO DO THE FIRST ROCK N ROLL SHOW. I WENT WITH MY BEST FRIEND RED AND WE GOT THERE TO A WILD SCREAMING CROWD. NEWS CAME THAT GENE AND THE GUYS WOULD BE THERE BUT BECAUSE OF A PLANE DELAY THEY WOULD BE LATE...THE CROWD WAS ANXIOUS. WE WERE UP NEAR THE FRONT OF THE STAGE, THE PART THAT LED TO THE DRESSING ROOMS. THIS ALSO WAS MY FIRST OF WHICH WOULD BECOME MANY OTHER CONCERTS BY MANY OTHER ARTISTS. WE OVERHEARD A GIRL TALKING THAT SHE KNEW WHERE THE DRESSING ROOMS WERE AND WAS GOING THERE...WE FOLLOWED, THEY CHICKENED OUT..WE KEPT GOING. A DOOR WAS OPEN AND NO SECURITY, I GUESS BECAUSE HE WASN'T THERE YET OR SO WE THOUGHT. WE PEEKED IN THE DOOR AND ON THE LITTLE TABLE WAS A PICTURE OF A GIRL THAT LOOKED LIKE MAMIE VAN DOREN. AT THAT MOMENT WE HEARD A VOICE SAY CAN I HELP YOU FELLAS AND WE TURNED AND THERE HE STOOD ..RIGHT BEFORE US. IT WAS GENE BY HIMSELF. DAMN WERE WE EMBARRASED WE THOUGHT HE'D GET MAD...NOT AT ALL. WE SAID HUMBLY.. GENE COULD WE GET A AUTOGRAPH ( NOW PICTURE THIS ) THE BLUE CAPS HAD JUST TAKEN THE STAGE AND BECAUSE OF THE ANTICIPATION THE CROWD WAS GOING CRAZY...HE ACTUALLY TOOK TIME OUT TO SIGN OUR AUTOGRAPHS I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT, HE WAS SIGNING AS THEY WERE ANNOUNCING HIM ON STAGE AND AS HE WENT OUT THE WINGS HE TURNED HALF WAY AROUND WITH THAT FAMOUS GRIN OF HIS AND SAID HEY FELLAS YOUR STAYING TO SEE THE SHOW AREN'T YA....RED YELLED HECK YA. WE COULDNT BELIEVE HE ACTUALLY TOOK THE TIME TO DO THAT AND THEN HE WALKED HURRIEDLY OUT TO THE STAGE TO A WAITING THRONG OF PEOPLE, THERE HE WENT WITH HIS FAMOUS CURLED FRONT POMPADOUR AND A BLACK WESTERN PEARL BUTTON DOWN SHIRT WITH A CROSS SHOWING AND ORANGE DRAPES WITH A WHITE PLEAT DOWN THE SIDE STITCHED ( CAN YOU DIG IT ) DRAPES FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT DONT KNOW ARE PANTS WHICH WERE BAGGY AT THE TOP AND TAPERED NARROW AT THE CUFF OH AND DONT FORGET THE THIN BLACK BELT...WHAT A MAN ..WHAT A SINGER... HE WAS MY FAVORITE THEN AND HE STILL IS TODAY. I SAW HIM ONCE MORE LIVE ABOUT A YEAR LATER AT A LOCAL CHURCH CONCERT WHICH WAS SHUT DOWN BY THE POLICE BECAUSE OF ( DIG IT ) LOUD NOISE. MANY HAD THAT FEAT IN THE 50S, ALLEN FREED AND MANY OTHERS INCLUDING GENE PAVED THE WAY FOR THE LIKES OF THE MULTI MILLION DOLLAR CONCERTS TODAY. GENES CAREER WANED ESPECIALLY WHEN THE BEATLES CAME OUT CAPITOLS SOLE POSESSION WERE THE BEATLES LEAVING GENE AND OTHERS IN THE WIND. BUT I BOUGHT EVERY GV RECORD I COULD GET MY HANDS ON AND WHEN GENES RETURN CAME IN 68 I WAS ECSTATIC ... DAMN A NEW GV ALBUM IT WAS DFFERENT BUT IT WAS GREAT AT LEAST TO ME AND HIS TRUE FANS. I READ HIS ROLLING STONE INTERVIEWS AND SAW HE WAS BOOKED FOR 69 AND 70 WOW GENE WAS BACK AND PROUD. THEN AS GOOD AS IT GOT ..IT WAS SOON TO TURN UGLY...GENE PASSED ON AND IT TOOK A GOOD DEAL TO GET OVER IT AND IT STILL HAS NEVER REALLY LEFT ME. THE GUYS SUCH AS BOB TIMMERS AND RONNIE WEISER WHOM DEVOTEDLY PRESENT HIM IN THEIR ROCKABILLY DEDICATIONS ARE TO BE COMMENDED TO THE HILT, I TOOK THE NAME VINCENT AS MY LAST NAME BECAUSE HE WAS AND ALWAYS WILL BE MY FAVORITE I HAVE PRESENTED HIM IN MANY OF MY SONGS AND IS A PART OF MY EVERYDAY LIFE AS HE IS TO THOUSANDS OF YOU OUT THERE AND THEN HE WENT INTO THE ROCK N ROLL HALL OF FAME ( ABOUT TIME ) HE SHOULD'VE WENT IN THE FIRST CLASS WITH JERRY LEE WHERE HE SO DESERVEDLY BELONGS, ROCK ON FOREVER GENE WE ALL LOVE YOU, MIKE VINCENT |
Marc "Elvis" Hohenadel CH-8055 Zurich Switzerland rocking.daddy@hispeed.ch For every real Collectors Gene is one of the Top 10 Rockabilly I call him in the same Time like Elvis, Eddie C, Carl P, Johnny B, and some others Kings of the Best Music in the World! Rockabilly the Best, ..... the Rest. I miss him, Gene is always in my Dreams Off Corse in few Years we are all in Rock&Roll Heaven forever, and all gone still Rocking for 24 Hours all Days. |
Maria Sheidy Lancaster, PA USA mcsheidy@aol.com It breaks my heart that someone who gave so many people the greatest gift, his talent, should have had such a difficult time in life. He lives on every day at my house through his words and music. (My husband and seven year old are big fans too.) Thanks Gene and rest in peace. |
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LONESOME ROCKER MONFORTE-GALICIA-SPAIN diego.arias.arnaiz@sergas.es Contigo descubrÏ el rock `n roll y desde entonces mi vida cambiÚ.Tu estuviste ahÏ para hacerlo. Gracias GENE YOU`LL NEVER DIE BECAUSE YOUR MUSIC LIVES IN THE HEART OF THOUSANDS ROCK AND ROLLERS ALL OVER THE WORLD. |
DIEGO diego.arias.arnaiz@sergas.es Thank you GENE, listening to your songs changed my life, since then rock'n roll is on my mind and in my heart. You died 30 years ago, but me and thousands of rock 'n rollers all over the world won't forget you. YOU ARE SIMPLY THE BEST. |
William Pereira Neves S“o Caetano do Sul-SP.; Brazil willpn222@hotmail.com Gene "Be bop a Lula" Vincent, you're the best of the best. In other words, you are the real "king of rock and roll". |
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Matt T. Stafford, VA, USA mvaldmar@aol.com I am only 21 years old, so obviously, I was never able to see Gene live, and remember him the first time around. To be honest, it was not until I heard the Stray Cats cover of, "Race With the Devil," that I ever heard of Gene Vincent. Once I heard that song, I just had to find the original source. Gene is the man. As soon as I heard "Be-Bop-A-Lula" for the very first time, I fell in love. It is a constant hunt for every recording I can get of his, and always will be. After all these years, he is still able to make new fans. Here's to Gene, the Blue Caps, and all of his fans. |
Norman Johnson Blackpool Lancashire England simplynorman@hotmail.com Always been a great rock n roll fan. Loved Gene's records, Summertime, say mama, pistol packin mama. His tour over here with Eddie Cochran and all the British rock stars was the best rock n roll tour ever. I still have the programme. Still read the reviews. Gene's memory will live. |
gene rearick williamsport , pennsylvania bger10080@aol.com I have (2) of his disks and I listen to them a lot. I really liked his singing and I miss not hearing any more from him. I made cassetts from the disks so I can play the cassetts in my truck. I am truly sorry that he is no longer with us. |
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Graham Storey Essex England graham@storey73.freeserve.co.uk Too young to remember Gene Vincent first time around, but when I first discovered that fabulous voice 25 years ago, WOW! my record collection has never been the same since. Gene Vincent, "I'll always remember you with tears in my eyes". |
Jerry Butler Nokomis Florida USA jerrybutler@comcast.net Merely the best of the best - Gene was too neglected here in the US -- bless you all abroad for remembering a true talent. Also, his long-time producer has passed on - RIP. |
Michael Harvey Los Angeles, CA USA mikarvey@hotmail.com We all dug Gene in school. Rumor was..."Woman Love" had dirty lyrics: "F***ing and-a kissing and a goosin' all the time..." Song was banned on local radio for a while, as was "Rumble" by Link Wray ... can you believe that? Hood music. Them that was knows. Johnny Halliday did a bad, s-l-o-w version of "Be-bop-a Lula", very bluesy. Vincent certainly looked the part. |
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Sam & Meta Peacock Montello, Wisconsin, US sameta@maqs.net Loved you music buddy, never forget you, thanks for bringing in the strats. |
Rodrigo - Woodypecker's Santos, Sao Paulo Brazil rodrigo_aranda@zipmail.com.br Em qualquer lugar que ele esteja eu acredito q ele continua fazendo a felicidade de outras pessoas, com sua jaqueta de couro eo deu cabelo brilhante, È um dos maires astros do rockabilly. Ele È o Elvis bandido. Um abraÁo p/ todos rockers do mundo inteiro. |
stu (slappinstu) england cooky.boy@ntlworld.com gene i only foun you when you'd gone but you have given the music to my life. sweet gene vincent will never be forgotten from one of your biggest british fans. |
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david somogyi kent, england somogyi.fsnet.co.uk Gene we will walays love you |
serge vincent St-hyacinthe, Quebec, Canada serge.vincent@hotmail.com Je me souviens la premiere fois que j'ai entendu tes chansons en 1982 j,avais 16 ans aujourd'hui en 2002 je t,ecoute toujours GENE car tu chante avec ton coeur et avec passion tu es un vrai Rocker. Ma petite fille Daniela qui ý presque 3 ans danse deje sur tes chansons. On t,aime Gene. bye |
Peter Kuijpers Haarlem Nethelands Gibsones335 I heard Be-bop-a-lulla when i was maybe 16 years old. im a fan for 20 years now.Its nice to visit such a great site like this. Its a great lost that Gene is gone. Now more than 30 years ago. But i never forget his voice. I hope that i can meet some of his Familly to talk about him. There is a lot to say, But now im 36 years old and now i know that is very short. Gene i hope you have found your place in the chorus in the sky, God needs you. |
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Bopper Amsterdam, Netherlands Bopper@bopcats.nl Yesterday died a verry close friend of mine, Marc from Caddy`s diner. He was the biggest Gene fan in our group. I hope he will meeting GENE today (posted: March 27, 2002) |
mike spenser douglas isle of man silvercraigs@manx.net words fail me gene s music is the most exciting. just listen to sould i ever love again. thanks gene. |
Gene & Melody CALIF, USA CMELODYTIME@aol.com We know you are in Rock-n-Roll heaven, Forever Rockin. WE LOVE YOU |
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Dave Pamment Cleckheaton Yorkshire England willa_1@talk21.com A VOICE THAT PORTRAYS FULL ON UNADULTERATED RAUNCHY R+R TO THE SWEETEST BALLAD RENDITIONS I HAVE EVER HAD THE PRIVELAGE TO HEAR, Thank you, Dave P.XXXXXX |
Michael Wileman Plymouth, United Kingdom michael.wileman@lineone.net Gene Vincent was the greatest Rock N Roller of our time and is sadly missed by me even now 30 years after his passing. I was lucky enough to meet Gene 5 yimes when he toured the UK. I have designed a tribute page in pictures about gene on http://website.lineone.net/~michael.wileman - It is so nice to think he still has so many fans worldwide, and wherever Gene is now I bet he is still rockin. Remember his LP The Beat They Couldn't stop? Well, that sums it up. From one of Genes greatest fans to all his fans, GOOD Luck. Thanks Gene for all of those great records. |
Lusse Magnusson VingÂker, Sweden lussemagnusson@hotmail.com "How I love them all songs" |
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howard lee stockport cheshire england kev 2521 i went to school in didsbury manchester and a lot of us kids were invited every friday after school to the television studios to the telerecordings of a rock and roll show called boy meets girl i saw gene and eddie cochran some years later i met gene at the oasis club in manchester he was a fabulous r n r act long live his memory |
Mark Medina Los Angeles, CA. USA Markiemark112@hotmail.com First, I want to thank you for this memorial page honoring the late great Gene Vincent. I sing at different karaoke bars in my area during the week and weekends and everytime I belt out "Be-Bop-A-Lula" the place goes crazy. People always come up to me and say "Man That was a great Elvis tune, you sound just like him" But, I always remind them hey that wasn't Elvis that was Gene Vincent and the Blue Caps. I hope some day to do a complete karaoke tribute to Gene Vincent to keep his memory alive. Gene, you live in the hearts of so many people and are greatly missed. I will turn 43 years old this year and even my 11 year old daughter loves listening to your c.d's. Once again, you have made a difference in my life and this summer I plan on visting your burial site to lay some flowers you for. There will never be another like you. We all miss you man. |
ken sloan lakewood nj usa papamacksaw@aol.com thanx for the music |
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Jan Roberson Bolivar, MO drober44@yahoo.com As a young teenager, I was there for the birth of Rock and Roll. Gene has been my idol for 45 years. I have every record released in this country I think. All are scratched and worn, I have nothing to play them on, but I will never part with them. He was the very best, Ever!!! |
Andy Matthews Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland, England AMatthews3678173 Gene, I would like to thank you for the pleasure you have gave me over the last 25 years. Even now Gene, you continue to be an important part of my life, and you'll be a part of it right to the end. Even my parents used to say to me "Andy, when you die and come to the pearly gates, you'll probably walk straight past us and look for Gene."!! Well my mum and dad are both gone now, so let's hope they welcome me with a big hug, then point out where i can find you!! God bless Gene, Thanks a million. Andy Matthews. P.S. Always remember, heaven has a high stage, with a massive crowd so Gene, you've cracked it son...!! |
Joe Jurado Barcelona, Spain amarillokiller@hotmail.com Gene Vincent, la inmortalidad hecha realidad, tu eres el autÈntico rock & roll. Permaneceras tatuado en nuestros cuerpos hasta la eternidad. "Hot Rod Gang" |
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john william tillotson harrow, middx. uk jwtilly@supanet.com I saw him and the bluecaps at a local cinema. i think his miusic was a big part of rock and roll over here in the uk. his recordings were on the capital label and at that time were not available at all music outlets. a shop selling decca record players etc only stocked decca related goods and the same for other record labels. terrific music. |
franz ramos vienna austria ramos-f@chello.at When i was 13 years old (thats 44 years ago) i saw the movie "The Girl Can't Help It) here in austria and since this day i was gene vincent fan and started to collect his records until now. i have appxm. hundred lps and still looking fore rare covers etc... i'm also interested to get a video of the movie "hot rod gang" and other videos with gene. so if sombody knows don't hesitate to send a e-mail. thank you for this gene vincent memorial web page. franz |
LOUIS AMHERST, MA US LBROZO.COM HI, I REALLY LOVE LISTING TO GENE'S TAPES. HIS SONGS ARE SO NICE TO LISTEN TO. THE BEST ONE HE MADE WAS THE BLUE CAPS SONG. I GO AND LOOK FOR HIS TAPES IN MEDA PLAY AND CAN'T SEEM TO FIND HIM. I HAVE TO ORDER IT, YOU CAN GET IT, IT WILL TAKE ABOUT TWO WEEKS TO GET. THIS IS A GREAT SITE. DOES HE HAVE ANY CDS OUT? I WOULD LIKE IT IF YOU LET ME KNOW. THANKS, GOD BLESS. |
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Pat Oliver Whittle-le-Woods, Lancashire, UK TheOllies@ouvip.com My twin brother - John Culshaw, introduced me to Gene's music when we were in our early teens. I saw Gene perform live in Blackburn, Lancashire, UK, in about 1961 - he appeared dressed in WHITE leather, not the customary black! He possessed a unique vocal talent and was the embodiment of a 'rocker'. Reading the fans' comments we can say: "He's Back - And He's Proud" |
Tom Adams Paphos, Cyprus tdasma@spidernet.com.cy I never did get to see gene in concert. The first time I became aware of him was when I saw the movie "The Girl can't Help It". Then he was introduced on stage at a rock concert at the Hammersmith Odeon (London) in 1964 (that dates me!) but didn't peform. Did anyone ever do a better rock n roll song than "Race with the Devil"? Bless you Gene. |
Chris Davis Plano, Texas USA sccdavis@attbi.com Even though my earliest memories of recorded music are of Fats Domino, Rick Nelson, Ronnie Hawkins, Freddie Cannon, (Elvis was everywhere), I really didn't grow up musically until the sixties. A buddy and I discoverd Gene Vincent in 79, 80 or so. A Capitol Greatest Hits collection when vinyl was still king. I thank God that the fifties hits were recycled along with new stuff on radio when I was growing up, because I have a deep appreciation for that era. There was a magic and urgency that still reverberates a half century later. I recently heard a new rendition of "Blue Jean Bop" by Sir Paul McCartney. Although not the blistering version of young Gene Vincent, whenever I hear that tune I have visions of young ladies dancing across the landscape, and I remember the power of youth, and R and R. Long Live Gene Vincent. |
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VERBEKE Patrick Paris, FRANCE verbeke@magicblues.com GENE (or "Gegene" for his french fans) will always be the GREATEST SINGER in the world: not only the greatest R'n'R singer but the greatest bluesman ever!!! WE SURE MISS YOU GENE!!! |
john culshaw knutsford, cheshire, uk jc@bridgewater-group.co.uk Just reading through the tributes to gene on the best site on the web! I first heard an unbelievable record on my friend`s dansette ... BABY BABY BABY ,,, NOW NOW NOW .... WHAT A RECORD! FROM THEN ON GENE WAS THE MAN. A YEAR OR SO LATER THIS TORTURED BLACK AND WHITE IMAGE APPEARED ON MY TV ... GENE SINGING THAT SONG `BABY BLUE` FROM THAT MOMENT ON I JUST HAD TO GET EVERY RECORDING AND AGAIN ON CD!!! I FIRST SAW GENE ON THE `KING AND QUEEN OF ROCK` TOUR WITH BRENDA LEE, IN BLACKBURN LANCS. AFTER THAT MANY OTHER TIMES WHENEVER HE APPEARED IN THE MANCHESTER AREA ... I EVEN GOT ALL MY LP`S AUTOGRAPHED. CAN ANY OTHER SINGER MAKE YOU SO HAPPY AND SO SAD? THANKS TO ALL AT ROCKABILLY HALL OF FAME AND IN PARTICULAR TO DEREK HENDERSON AND PALS FOR KEEPING THE MEMORY OF GENE ALIVE AND INTRODUCING THE MAN AND HIS MUSIC TO YOUNGER GENERATIONS. ROCK ON GENE AND THE BLUE CAPS ...... FOREVER |
Lynn Smith London, England lynnsmith53@hotmail.com Loved, repected and remembered eternally. Thank you Genie for your music, for your Bluecaps, for the memories. Sincerely Lynn Smith. |
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athonk yogyakarta-indonesia athonk@ganja.com first time i picked gene's vincent cassette, found it in Melbourbe Australia, and its labeled, "the wild rocker!", a live album!! i was shocked and then realize that THIS IS GUY!!! after that, i started colecting his stuff... |
carlos coimbra, Portugal camendes@mail.pt Thank you Mr. Gene bobbi cooley pearland, texas, usa vitz@worldnet.att.net "It's been real" |
PILIN MADRID, SPAIN PILIN59@yahoo.es "YOU'RE STILL IN MY HEART" Yonell DIAZ Vitry - FRANCE yonell@wanadoo.fr Gene, Une voix aussi pur qu'un diamant ... Je resterais fan toute ma vie. |
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Justin DeNova Palm Harbor, FL USA Rockabilly_Idol@yahoo.com I never heard rockabilly sound so good until I heard Gene Vincent. |
Jacques Bodlenner Casblanca, Morocco bodlenner@wanadoo.net.ma I love Gene Vincent since 1963 and I still hear all his songs and buy CD's, articles and books about his life. I met him personally while he toured in France in 1967. He is still my favorite singer. |
chris plese san diego ca theidey@hotmail.com i first heard of gene from joe leon, bass player from The Paladins. he had all this music i had never heard of, the collins kids, johnny burnette, carl perkins etc. he had the screaming end cd and i listened to it and man, i loved it. I bought it, and i pick up a copy for everyone i meet. Gene and his band are rockabilly. Thank you gene and the blue caps. you make music such a pleasure. |
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Robin Waterfield Virginia Beach, Va, US of A robinwaterfield@hotmail.com Gene and my father were first cousins, Gene's mother and my grandmother were sisters. Growing up in the fifties we all knew Gene as family, although he was never around, but believe me his music and pictures were plastered all over Grandmothers (and our) house. I really never knew the importance of his music and what he did for rock and roll until later, when I was in the Army stationed in Germany, you could buy his records anywhere at any music store, seems like we Americans are too quick to forget where we came from and who made us what we are. My mother told me many stories of Gene skipping school and hiding in the closet when Aunt Louise (Gene's mom) would come during the day and play cards with my mom, little did she know that ten minutes before Gene had been sitting in that very chair playing cards with my mom instead of being in calss, sometimes he would stay in that closet all afternoon waiting for Aunt Louise to leave so he could come out and hurry home before her. My mom and Gene were about the same age so they could really relate although my mom was raising a family at sixteen and Gene was supposed to be in school. The only memory of Gene I have is once in the late or mid sixties he came to our house, my brothers and myself were young but old enough to know who he was and that he was a famous man. I remember he took us kids for a ride in some type of convertable (with the top down) for a bunch of country kids that was something special. His kindness to me and my family is the memory I will allways have of Gene, I can still to this day allmost smell the lotion in his hair when he picked me up and put me in the seat of that great big car. GOD bless you Gene where ever you are, no one is perfect but YOU were a perfect rock and roll STAR. -ROBIN |
AMAURI CAETANO BARBOSA GUARULHOS, SˆO PAULO, BRAZIL amauricb@terra.com.br I have listened Gene's music is since my 13 years old and I love your voice, style, and the image in the classic CAPITOL albuns, and later your songs of CHALLENGE period. Today I like you complete recordings (CAPITOL, EMI-COLUMBIA, CHALLENGE, DANDELION AND KAMA SUTRA) and my message to Gene's fans around the world: NEVER FORGET THE BEST SINGER OF EARLY ROCK! Best regards to VINCENT family, friends and fans. Thank you. -AMAURI |
Bob Bowen Victorville, CA, USA chiripero@aol.com Aside from "Be-Bop-A-Lula", I still get fire in my soul listening to the hot guitar licks and soulful sounds of Gene's great voice in "Woman Love" and "Lotta Lovin'." I spoke to Dickie Harrell at VLV 2000 and you could just feel the pride in his voice as he spoke of those wonderful years as a Blue Cap. "Rock On" Dickie, as we old Rock 'n Roll Fans never lose sight of you first generation rockers while we continue to enjoy the music that has stirred the hearts of people all over the world. |
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William J. Burton Columbus, Ohio MBU39@aol.com As a Military Policeman in Camp Zama,Japan, in 1959, it was my pleasure to take Gene to Kishine Barracks to perform there. He had a broken leg at the time but we had a great time with him on our 30 mile trip. He will be missed by this old M.P.in Columbus, Ohio. Sp4 William J. Burton Hq & Hq Co. Military Police Det. Camp Zama, Japan |
Margie Vincent London, U.K. mandmbernstein@tinyworld.co.uk How wonderful to read the glowing tributes to Gene and to know that he lives on in the hearts and minds of so many people around the world. Despite his fame, Gene was often a lonely and vulnerable man. Deep down he found it hard to believe that he was admired and loved -- even by those who were closest to him. Although Gene only lived in the UK for a few years, I truly believe that he found happiness here -- at least for a short while until the "gremlins" got to work again and he began once more to believe that he didn't deserve such happiness. Gene left behind our darling daughter Sherri, who remains a source of pride and wonder. She has never wished to exploit her father's name nor has she shown disrespect by fighting over his legacy. His talent lives on in her and perhaps in little Jack Vincent, now aged 4 -- Gene's grandson! I would like to say Hi to all those fans out there who may have been around in those goldendays of 1962/63/64. We had such great times - the world of rock'n'roll was young then and we were full of hope. We have come along way since then - don't lets lose the hope. Stay Happy, Margie Vincent |
Noel Watts Melbourne, Australia wildman56@optusnet.com.au No Greater Artist, his music will go on Forever. LONG LIVE GENE & THE BLUE CAPS. |
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Alan Clark West Covina, Calif. U.S.A. aclarkarchive@earthlink.net Gene was one of my favorites from the beginning. I grew up listening to rock and roll in San Bernardino, Calif. When I first heard Gene singing "Be Bop-A-Lula", that was it for me. Gene, along with Eddie Cochran, were two of my idols. I had the pleasure a few years back performing with the legendary Blue Caps out here in California. What a thrill that was. I couldn't believe I was on stage with Gene Vincent's original Blue Caps. It's something I will never forget. I almost got the chance to meet Gene back in late 1969 or 1970. I am not sure of the date, but the piano player I was working with told me his girl friend lived at a apartment where Gene was the manager or something like that. We went there one day, but Gene wasn't there. To this day, I am still not sure if Gene was really there. I didn't go back and I dont know why. Gene Vincent's music will never die. |
Fabio Marconi So Paulo-Brazil Kool_Kat54@hotmail.com I became a Gene's fan when I was 14 y.o. and since that time I can not stop listening to his music. He will be always remembered by his great music,talent and attitude!!! |
Brenda K. California, USA BsKunky5@aol.com What can I say but that his presence in this world really made a difference. He will be very missed and always remembered in our hearts. |
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Anders Josefsson Gothenburg, Sweden Howl154@hotmail.com Gene Vincent was, and still is, a prototype of a rock and roller. His prescence was rock and roll epithomized. An archetypical mythic rebelic representant of the danger in the rock and roll context. One of the truly greatest, if not THE greatest. |
George Murch Jr. Hoboken,NJ U.S.A. gmurch@optonline.net I've been into Gene Vincent for about 10 years now. I just happined to find out that he was the singer and composer of Be-Bop-a-lula. I really dig his voice on the that track! What a voice! I started collecting some old vinal on Gene and found out that I love all his stuff. His voice has spunk, sadness, lust, love, everything. A true rock n' roller. Never to be forgotten! Rock on Gene! I know you're watchin' over us! |
Kenny Gill Nashville, Tennessee kenjean@home.com Gene Vincent was an inspiration to all of us during our first years of playing R & B and Rockabilly music. Also Gene was a kind of "trailblazer" for things and styles of music to come. He will be remembered for a very long time. Kenny Gill, Nashville |
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Karl Soliday Owasso, Oklahoma, USA mauikarl@mindspring.com My son Lance and I visited Gene's grave this past summer. The people at the cemetery were very gracious and were glad to help us find Gene's grave site. They said that a lot of the people who come to see it are from England. Please visit my online juke box which is dedicated to Gene Vincent at this time. www.mindspring.com/~mauikarl |
Scott Simpson Vancouver, BC, Canada brianrocker@hotmail.com When I heard the song The Day The World Turned Blue, I immediately put Gene's voice up there with Elvis, Roy Orbison, and Carl Wilson. He defined rock n roll, from his soul, lifestyle, and music. Many immitate Gene, but the sad thing is they don't know who they're immitating. There will never be another Gene Vincent. |
MARCELO LESGART ROSARIO, ARGENTINA GENE VINCENT, EL MAS GRANDE DE TODOS. SOY HINCHA DE GENE DESDE 1975 CUANDO TENIA 10 A‹OS. VAMOS GENE, TODAVIA! |
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John W. Lobb Ashburton, New Zealand jwlobb@paradise.net.nz GENE, ELVIS, CARL -- THE THREE GREATEST ROCKERS EVER. |
Andrew Smith Essex England Bettajive@aol.com Gene Vincent's Greatest Hits was the first single artist rock 'n' roll vinyl record I bought (the others were compilations as I was a youngster in the mid-70's) Rock 'n' Roll clubs from the 1970's onward would play Gene regularly and floors would fill to I Flipped, Pink Thunderbird and Dance to the Bop. No other artist quite had that appeal, virtually everyone loved a Gene Vincent track. For me, listening to his music, it seemed he could almost lull you with a ballad with that perfectly pitched voice, and in the next breath blow you away with a tune like Cat Man. I never saw Gene live in concert, born too late as they say, curses. Thanks to a true legend, Gene Vincent, for some of the greatest rockin' tunes ever. |
rocky arreola santa ana, ca usa rockabilly69@hotmail.com As a young rockabilly myself i have always looked up to gene vincent especially when i first heard "Race With the Devil" the song that started it all for me not to mention the all time classic "Be-Bop-A-Lula" which for me will never be forgotten. But for rock n'roller lifestyle, many of our favorites have gone on to a better place which is refered to us as "Rockabilly Heaven." Gene Vincent will live on with the older generations that viewed him on television and will also live through younger generations such as mine who have discover great music. I may only be 19 but i know good music when i first hear it and "The Man in the Leather" and Blue Capped band backing him up will forever live on. I will remember Gene Vincent not only as Rockabilly, and Rock n Roller, but icon, legend, and forever to me as one of the original pioneer of the great decades of the 50's. A special message to the man up stairs, "May you always rest in peace, and may you always rock n roll along side your great friend and hero to me Eddie Cochran." |
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Robert Whidbee Norfolk, Va USA rwhidbee@juno.com Although I did not know Gene personally. I loved his music and still do today. I am a life long friend of Dickie Harrell who was Gene's drummer. We still stay in touch with each other today. When we lost Gene we lost one of the best - it was truly a sad time. |
MARK THORNE NORWICH NORFOLK ENGLAND markthorne@mtxnet.co.uk,br> Its been twenty two years since I first heard the Bluejean Bop album. From that moment I was hooked .Gene and the Caps sound was so far advanced compared to most of the other rock acts of the 50s. Thanks for the great music. |
Mike McCarthy Philadelphia, PA. USA mickey1@netcarrier.com I was about thirteen years old when I first heard Gene singing Be Bop a Lula. Already a fan of Rock n' Roll music and as a boy growing up in the northern part of New York State, I loved his music. I decided that I wanted to sing like him so I found a friend who could play guitar and we performed that song one night at a High School dance. After that I joined a band and started to learn how to play guitar myself. We stayed together until I was eighteen in 1961, playing rockabilly music and a lot of Gene's tunes in bar rooms and at High School dances. I'll never forget the way he sang with so much emotion and soul. He will always be alive in my heart and on my stereo. |
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Emiliano Salamanca (Spain) rockymonroe_2000@yahoo.es Hey Gene, thanks for taking care of rock'n'rollers from up above. We keep on caring about your Be-bop-A-Lula down here. |
G÷STA JANSSON BORLŸNGE, SWEDEN GOSTA JANSSON@IOGT.SE THANKS FOR WONDERFUL MUSIC AND MEMORIES, I BUY "BE BOP A LULA" - RECORD OCTOBER 1956. I SEE AND HEAR GENE IN STOCKHOLM OCTOBER 1963 AND HE DEAD IN OCTOBER 1971 ... TWICE I HAVE VISITED GENE'S HEADSTONE AT NEWHALL, CA. I HAVE MEET "THE BLUE CAPS" TWICE WITH HELP FROM DEREK HENDERSON, THANKS DEREK AND SHIELA FOR SUPPORT! THANKS GENE AND ALL BLUE CAPS ALL OVER THE WORLD. |
PAULO ROCKER Lisboa, Portugal paulorocker@hotmail.com Nunca te esquecerei, tu deste for'a a tudo o que eu sinto, no meu modo de vida. Keep on Rockin. |
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Colin UK rockinhepcat@aol.com The first time I heard Gene's unique sound was when I was a little kid back in the sixties, my dad kept playing (much to my delight!) the same songs over & over, 'Say Mama', 'Race With The Devil', 'Be Bop A Lula' and 'Wildcat' I thought they were WILD! Gene's music still thrills me now as much as it did then. I was still a kid when I heard the news of his passing, and I still feel the loss today. My 14 month old Grandson brings a ray of hope for Gene's legacy in that when the record finishes he says very clearly Again! Again! |
Ake Roos Ostersund, Sweden ake@roos.as My first memory of Gene Vincent is his 1962 hit recording of Be-Bop-A-Lula (a number one hit in the Swedish Top-10 in 1963), but I was only three years old at the time. When I started to buy rock 'n' roll records in the mid-70's I didn't know he had died and, in fact, I didn't learn about it until 1978! In the 50's Sweden's best rocker, Rock Ragge, recorded many of Vincent's 1956 songs and if you like to you'll find his discography at my page at http://medlem.tripodnet.nu/SvenskRockandRoll/ - I have a link to Gene Vincent's pages because of his importance and I hope that's OK. |
Tony Flores Ramsey, MN & Anoka Country tony_flores@msn.com Before the first time I saw Gene Vincent in Nov. 5th 1957 at the Anoka Theater, Elvis Presley was my favorite. But as soon as I saw him preform I quickly changed my mind. I don't mean to take anything away from Elvis but this was my personal opinion. After returning from the army I came home to find out that Gene Vincent was here preforming and left and then came back and did another week at the Frontier Club. I talked to him, and asked were he had been for so long, he said Europe. To me he sounded every bit as good as he did the first time I saw him. I know alot of friends that play in bands dating back to the late 50's and they all pretty much said the same thing about him after watching him numorus times. I tried to get him to come back after that but was unable too. I even had Buddy Knox try to get him to come back here, but was unable to make it happen. In 1971 on Oct. 12 or 13th a friend of mine told me at work that it was on the radio that he had died. I didn't hear any more about that day so I called Bill Deal, he was a disc jockey back in the 50's. He was responsible for having Gene and many other R&R singers preform at the Prom Center in St. Paul. Bill Deal said he checked the wire service and could not find anything else and said it must be a mistake that he was to young. Then the next morning about 5:30am I heard on WCCO radio that Gene Vincent had died. They did name alot of his songs and they did say that he had just came back from England. That was a very sad time for me, and I'm sure many others had the same feeling about him as I did. It was a great musical lose. -Tony Flores |
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NACHO Barcelona, Spain calamityman@hotmail.com GRACIAS GENE!!! |
Lloyd Coombes London UK lloydredrd@hotmail.com Without Gene rock'n'rock would not have had it's dirty image. Then there would not have been any Rolling Stones, MC5 or Sex Pistols, etc. What a boring youth I would have had, instead it was a rocking one. As a so called middle aged man I'm still into the music Gene gave us. |
Nick Wilde Bedford England nick.wilde@ntlworld.com I heard Gene live a number of times in Nottingham and very memorably in Grantham where he sang "Over the Rainbow". At the Co-op ballroom in Nottingham I got his autograph and later saw him in Bristol and London. I am slowly building up a CD collection in order to preserve the LP's for posterity and have a treasured 78 of Be bob a lula. Forever Gene Vincent. |
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Damian Johnstone Melbourne, Victoria, Australia damianjohnstone@yahoo.com Gene Vincent has a special place in the hearts of Australian rockers. He knocked us out with his tour of this country in 1957 and has continued to do so to this day. The history books sadly only ever mention 'Be Bop A Lula' but as great a song as it was, what about all his other classic songs ? Gene had one of the most incredible voices I have ever heard. I don't believe any of the other great rockers (and lets face it there were many) sang with the sheer passion of Gene Vincent. If anyone needs any proof of that, I'd suggest they listen to 'For Your Precious Love' on the new Rockstar release. It will just blow you away. Long may your music live Gene. You will forever be in our hearts |
Colin Glazebrook Batley, Yorkshire, UK colin_glazebrook@iprimus.com.au I still have his first hit record Be Bop a Lula on 78 release and it still sounds great. Gene could handle a ballad as well as the wildest rock song. His music is his legacy. |
Mike Tobin Bristol, England mikeboppintobin@netscapeonline.co.uk For me, Gene is up there alongside Elvis, Eddie, Chuck, Fats etc. as one of the true greats of 20th century music. For a brit, he ipitomised what AMERICAN music was about. I had the pleasure of seeing him perform at all of his appearances here in Bristol, U.K. including the week he appeared with Eddie before the terrible car smash that took Eddie from us and injured Gene. I am proud that because I covered many of Gene's songs in my act, I was known around Bristol as Mike "Be bop a lula" Tobin when I had my band The Magnettes. |
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Bert Bretherton Stockport, Cheshire, England illegalactivities@btinternet.com First,I send all of my heartfelt sadness to those in anyway affected by yesterday's (Sept. 11, 2001) terrorist action. I am nearin 60 years of age. Gene's 'BeBopALula' backed by 'Woman Love' was the first single I ever bought. I still have it. It is on a cassette I constantly use i n my car. In that way he is still with me. A uniquely gifted star - they don't come like him anymore. |
Alvaro Martin Romera Madrid, Spain Amartin@neo-si.com Gracias por lo que nos dejaste Gene, la m'sica no hubiera sido lo mismo sin ti. Gracias, donde quiera que est's. |
Lina Peluso Essex, England thebigapple@blueyonder.co.uk I got into Rockabilly music at the age of 14 and still remember the impact Gene had on me. I thought his voice was out of this world and still haven't heard, 14 years later, and probably never will, any-one who can compete with his soft yet raunchy voice. Consequently, frequent trips to record fairs and Rock 'n' Roll record shops resulted in many Gene Vincent and The Bluecaps records being bought, which has now progressed onto CD's. I only wish I could have seen Gene perform. 'Cat Man' is my personal favourite and in my humble opinion: "Gene Vincent is 'The King'." |
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david gutierrez londres, inglaterra davidhepcat@hotmail.com todos sabemos que ha habido demasiadas muertes en el panteon del RocknRoll ... gracias Gene por todo; el RocknRoll y artistas como tu nunca moriran, siempre permaneceran en nustros corazones de rocknroll. |
Volker Houghton Stevenage, England volkerbelinda@ntlworld.com GENE VINCENT has long been under rated by so called music aficionado's who should know better. GENIUS VINCENT has long been LOVED and REVERED by those of us that do. Sweet Gene Vincent let The Blue Caps Rock Tonite!. |
Maggie Sampford Coventry, England maggie@bluesuedenews.freeserve.co.uk Rock 'n' Roll will never die and it's thanks to it's originators, such as; Jerry Lee Lewis, Chuck Berry, Elvis, Little Richard, Buddy Holly, Eddie Cochran and of course, Gene Vincent. I love 'em all but there will always be a special place in my heart for Gene, his music sends shivers down my spine. He had such a wonderful quality to his voice that no-one could match. There are many tribute week-ends for various artistes, when are we going to see one for Gene? Many thanks to the Rockabilly Hall of Fame for instigating this memorial. Gene, wherever you are now, you will never be forgotten. |
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michel campos (aermacchi/harley-davidson) aix en provence fance twin.pow@infonie.fr De mon premier cylo a ma plus belle Harley, sur les routes de france tu ma accompagne.Tu restera pour moi bien plus que le chanteur. Merci pour le rock n roll, merci pour nous. |
Jorge Correa Madrid, Spain rocker99@teleline.es We'll never forget you, you're the best. |
Steve Foster Surrey UK rosey-foster@supernet.com I have been a fan of Gene Vincent for as long as I can remember and Gene has become a very important part of my life. I first became aware of Genes music through my dad's record collection and have never looked back Gene will always be the greatest and whether with The fantastic Blue Caps or backed by an orchestra Gene has never made a bad recording.Stories of Genes live shows are incredible there will never be any one else to come close. I have had the pleasure of spending some time with The legendary Blue Caps on there visits here and recently spent a great two days with Jumping Jack Neal & his wife Betty. Thanks for the music Gene you will never be forgotton. |
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Pulpobilly Vitoria-SPAIN pulpobilly@hotmail.com Han pasado 30 a-os y todos le recordamos. Es uno de los grandes del ROCKABILLY y nadie le pogra negar su talento nunca. Temas como BABY BLUE,el legendario BE BOP A LULA...Muchas gracias por todo lo que nos has dejado. THANK YOU Mr. VIncent. |
Shohei Sanada Hiroshima, Japan ksanada@juno.ocn.ne.jp The first time I listened to Gene Vincent & the Blue Caps, I felt something special thing. Soon I became a fan. They play just funny and happy music to me, all of them have great ability to play music, I think. Because even a person like me who lives in Japan and 17 years old listen to them. Thanks for being you, Gene! |
Legjaw Las Vegas, NV, USA legjaw@earthlink.net Gene Vincent, Buddy Holly, Carl Perkins, Ronnie Hawkins, Elvis, Jerry Lee Lewis, Eddie Cochran, Jack Scott, Dale Hawkins and so many more were the founders of rock'n'roll. The music was in their hearts and souls. God bless them all, for today we have their music to remind us where it all began. And thanks to the Rockabilly Hall of Fame for keeping those memories alive! -Lejgaw |
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David Farina Quezada Vi'a Del Mar / Chile farina3001@yahoo.com GRACIAS GENE. HAN PASADO 30 A‹OS Y MUCHOS TE RECUERDAN INCLUSO DESDE PARTES TAN LEJANAS COMO CHILE. Y PRONTO VAN A SER CASI 50 A‹OS DESDE QUE GOLPEASTE AL MUNDO CON TU MUSICA. POR SIEMPRE VIVIRA TU RECUERDO EN NUESTROS CORAZONES ... JUNTO A OTROS EDDIE, BUDDY, ELVIS Y OTROS QUE AN PARTIDO HACE POCO COMO CHARLIE FEATHERS Y JOEY RAMONE. DAVID FARI‹A, CHILE |
Jean-Marc Pezet Sallanches, France jean.marc.pezet@libertysurf.fr Gene can rock, roll, bop and get you almost in tears. I hope I'll see you Over The Rainbow or down on Bop Street one of these days. |
Luis Angel Merallo Bravo "Terry" Mieres, ASTURIAS, Espa'a luisangel.bravo@terra.es GVcomment = Hoy hace 30 a os muri el que para m fue el mejor,sin duda, No tuvo suerte, no era guapo, estaba cojo, pero le daba mil vueltas a otros guaperas, y con mucha menos clase que Gene (eugenio pa los amigos), Gene Vincent for ever. |
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Ric Weide Canton, Georgia USA rcweide@aol.com I still listen to "the Screaming End" CD I got of Gene's best. It was the most influential piece of music I have and because of the sound of Bebopalula and the Cliff Gallup guitar, it is the epitome of the best of rockabilly. I miss the sound Gene and Eddie had and listen to them all the time. |
Juan Hernandez Madrid, Espa'a juan.cabanillas@terra.es Despues de 30 a'os seguimos siendo muchos los que recordamos a Gene desde todas partes del mundo, arriba el rock and roll!! |
MaryAnna Mayfield Omaha Nebraska USA mag19@webtv.net To Gene Wherever You Are: Know that your fans still love you and that recordings of your singing voice continue to give us listening pleasure. Thanks for being you! |
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David Dennard Dallas, TX, USA dragonst@flash.net Gene Vincent epitomizes real rock & roll for me, more so even than Elvis, Carl, Jerry Lee and the rest of his talented generation. He gave no quarter in his defiant stand to stay true to the music he loved. A true "Rebel with a cause" who went down with his ship rather than sell out to the commercial pressures of the fame machine. He paid the ultimate price, unfortunately, but his great recordings and images will live forever in the minds of those who love art at full throttle. kiketcb Madrid Spain kiketcb@hotmail.com ESTAMOS CONTENPLANDO EL NACIMIENTO DEL ROCK AND ROLL Y DE REPENTE SURGE LA MAGIA DE SU MUSICA SERA IREPETIBLE - LARGA VIVA AL R&R KIKETCB |
Mark "Daddy-o Dilly" Dillman Topeka, Kansas, USA daddyodilly@yahoo.com Right after Gene Vincent died on October 12, 1971, Rolling Stone magazine reported his death in a half page article. It was about the nicest tribute he would get stateside. In it, Gene is quoted saying "I liked 'em all... Jerry Lee, Little Richard, Fats... but for me if he had lived, Eddie Cochran would have been the greatest. I was honored to have him as one of my closest friends." Gene is also quoted saying "I'm going through hell right now" describing his professional and family problems. The story offered little hope for Gene. Had he lived, he might still be performing onstage with the likes of Narvel Felts, Wanda Jackson, the Crickets, The Everly Brothers, the Comets, and the ever smaller number of first generation rockers who still put on great shows today. Thirty years is a long time to be remembered for something that was only supposed to be a year long fad. The thing is, when you do something that well, people simply will not forget. |
Adrian White Thame, Oxfordshire, UK eggwhite62@hotmail.com I was only nine years old when Gene died and didn't even know he existed! At about 14, a school friend lent me a copy of the LP, Gene Vincent, Greatest, and that was it, both sides just blew me away, this was the sound I had been looking for, I knew then that I had to get everything he had ever recorded (so I did!). 26 years later Gene & the Caps are still a huge part of my life and now I'm very proud to count Mr. Harrell, Mr. Meeks, Mr. Facenda, Mr. Jones, and the late Paul Peek as my friends and in the last week to have had the good fortune to spend two days in the company of 'Jumpin' Jack Neal. Never in my wildest dreams at 14, could I have hoped for such a reality. Gene you were and always will be the Greatest. God bless you. |
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Paul Barrett UK barrett.rocknroll@amserve.net I have no access to the internet.I only have a Personal Communications Centre. This incorperates a phone and answering machine a fax and an e.mailer. Gene Vincent was one of my first heroes. He remains one to this day. From 16 to 60 is along haul.The great tragedy is that Gene was unabe to be with us for the last 30 years.Unlike so many he never did nor would he have ever,let down the original concepts of rock and roll. It is wonderful that he is continued to be held in such high esteem by fans World wide.Gene's second tragedy is that the punk media and pop pundits do not share this esteem. Still as long as real roots rock and roll survives so will the legend that is Gene Vincent. He enriched my life. |
Derek Henderson Southampton, Hampshire, UK spentbros@talk21.com Gene Vincent is remembered by those priviledged to see him perform live or enjoy his classic recordings because he touched their hearts in some unique and magical way. It is impossible to dissect and analyse exactly what makes a great performer, but Gene's synthesis of frantic rock 'n' roll, in which he was consumed by the wildness of his music, and the vulnerability and deep emotions revealed by his beautiful way with ballads was, and remains, unmatched. We are all enriched by the legacy of his recorded work, which will endure. It is my honour, as his Discographer, to be in some small way a custodian of this rich heritage. |
Wild boppin Nol Maastricht, Netherlands wilboppinnol@hotmail.com Hi fox, Gene to me he is the GREATEST rockabilly singer ever! We will always remember him and the Blue Caps as the BEST. Gene we Love you !! My salute to the rockabilly King, wildboppinn |
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Al Torney Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida USA striper2@mediaone.net 1956 I was living in Vicenza, Italy and listened to BBC's Radio Luxombourg late at night. Be-Bop-A-Lula blew me away. Being in Europe, the stateside records were slow coming. But when I finally got a hold of a single and heard "Women Love" it was just something special. Aside from Elvis most singles had a throw away side (B). I still have his first 2 original hi-fi albums and many of his Capital singles. Gene may have been ahead of his time. The Blue Caps music was definitely the most advanced Rock and Roll music in 1956. He certainly deserves all the accolades he has received as one of the founding fathers. He's missed. He was only one of a few rock and rollers I never saw in person. I missed a great one. Thanks. |
Phil Davies Neath, Wales Flippar54@aol.com B&W TV had just reached our house in North Wales just in time for an impressionable 11 year old to see the black leather rebel opening the legendary Granada Jerry Lee Lewis tv Special. Little wonder I`ve been a rocker since that day. I missed seeing Gene in Wales on his penultimate visit as my father was seriously ill. Like many others, my memories are entwined around the above tv show and the classic 50s movies, until this year when Rockstar unleashed the brilliant Town Hall Party shows on video.Mr Meeks and Mr Merritt add to the fun. I know what I`ll be watching on Oct 12 this year and also blasting out the Capitol box set, why doncha join me??? Sweet Gene Vincent, young and old and gone, Phil |
Adriaan Sturm Louisville, Kentucky, USA Zeeuw@aol.com I was introduced to Gene Vincent by my good friend Stan Govaard in the mid-sixties. First it were Gene's famous rockers like "Be-bop-a-lula" and "Woman Love" but Stan was more than a rock & roll fan, he liked all kinds of music, and soon I found myself listening to songs like "Unchained Melody", "Beautiful Brown Eyes" and "Blue Eyes Crying In The Rain". Stan bought his first Gene Vincent record on 78rpm at a time when rock & roll was considered bad stuff. He carried the "Be-Bop-A-Lula" 78 out of the store hidden under his coat!!! I am glad he did because thanks to Stan I became a big Gene Vincent fan. In the summer of 1971, while visiting Ronny Weiser I came close to meeting Gene but something did not work out. I still remember the sadness I felt when I heard about his passing a couple of months later. |
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Jimmy Harrel Jacksonville, FL JLHJAXSUN323@webtv.net In 1956, I saw a live performance by Gene in San Diego, California. What a show! I was inspired to form my first musical group "The Jim-Bobs." I've been a Gene Vincent fan ever since that rockin' show in San Diego. -Jimmy Harrell Lenny Coolo Argentina inzucare@hotmail.com Ccomment: He is alive in our minds John Fletcher New Zealand johnwfletcher@paradise.net.nz Comment: Thanks for the Music. |
Didier Delcourt Compiegne France delcourt.didier@wanadoo.fr I remember that sad 12th October 1971. I was young (fourteen) and i was looking TV the 8 o'clock news and the speaker say Gene Vincent is dead. At this time I've just one LP of Gene a french best of on Capitol records, after I've buy all of Gene LP's and his music start to be a part of my life. I France the memory of Gene is still alive probably because he had made a lot of tour in our country and also because his songs where covered by a lot of french artists. Gene was one (maybe the only) sincere artist of this area and his voice was so pure a real gem. i never forget Gene you stay the best in my memory. When i had the blues i put a Gene's record on my turntable and all the sadness go away. Over the Rainbow, Weeping Willow, True To You, Where have you been, all of Gene's songs are great HE WAS, HE is? HE STAY FOVERVER THE BEST ROCK 'N' ROLL SINGER OF THE WORLD. |
John Aaron Hickory Hills, IL JAARONMPR@AOL.COM I think a critical measure of success in life is the amount of joy that one can bring to others. By this yardstick Gene and the Bluecaps were among the most successful of any era. I enjoy talking to people who lived through the 50s. Most people who lived during that time have trouble today remembering and recognizing the names of the most influential business people, politicians, religious leaders, etc of that era. But almost everyone still remembers Be-Bop-a-lula with absolute clarity. To me that speaks for itself. Gene and the Bluecaps brought joy to millions with their music. That joy has an unending quality about it. |