I Believe I Can Change My World

In 1995 I bought an album called “Tall Blonde Helicopter” by Francis Dunnery. Last night he played most of it in my living room.

Accompanied by stories about the events and people that inspired the songs he was singing Francis managed to engage and entrance an audience largely made up of people unfamiliar with his work. Well, to be honest, apart from Chris and Tom (who came with Francis) I was probably the only one in the room to have listened to more than one or two of his songs. But at one of Francis’ house concerts it doesn’t matter whether you know every chord (and word) of every song or if you’ve never heard a note of his before. With wit, warmth and an infectious enthusiasm he draws everyone into “the jacuzzi” and shares stories, insights, philosophy and a side order of therapy to entertain and inform. For the best part of two hours he had a room full of people firmly in the now and not worrying about their pasts or their futures. What a top bloke. What a top evening.

Then to top the night off rather than jumping in the car and driving off with the last notes of “Good Life” reverberating around my lounge he stayed and chatted, signed every CD of his that I own and was a total gentleman.

I’ve been telling the 70s Throwback that I was going to host a House Concert for the best part of two years, but didn’t really think it would happen until the last few days. And when it did the evening lived up to every expectation. Certainly the finest gig I’ve ever been to – even better the Midlands Arts Centre in June, 2002. To puff myself up a little I think a few of the people who came have seen the light and are joining the Francis Dunnery fan club.

If you ever have an opportunity to attend, or even better host, a house concert then don’t hesitate – just jump into the jacuzzi with both feet and be prepared for a fantastic night.

Thanks again to Kate, Erica, Chris, Tom and Francis (of course). Thanks also to everyone who came, it wouldn’t have been half as good without you.

Update We’ve made it onto the news page at FrancisDunnery.com. Apparently I make a killer chilli which is very nice to hear. Francis doesn’t tend to keep archives on his site so if you visit and can’t see the bit about us don’t panic.