Jun 13 2024
A nod to His Bobness…
A nod to His Bobness and Clare O’Meara getting her Scarlet Rivera on! Thanks to the band and crew and John Dalton for the video.
May 18 2024
VALE FRANK IFIELD (1937-2024)
From the Facebook page of the CMAA:-
Vale FRANK IFIELD
30 November 1937 – 18 May 2024
The board of the Country Music Association of Australia would like to express its deep sadness at the news of the passing of Australian music idol Frank Ifield. Much has been said and written of Frank’s achievements during his illustrious career, spanning over 60 years. He was one of Australia’s very first international superstars, and despite his world-wide acclaim he was described by all who worked with him as being a genuine, gentle man. His promotion and support for Australian country music performers was legendary, which has been evidenced many times over the past few days of those young artists paying tribute on Facebook.
We have asked one of Frank’s dearest friends and fellow entertainers Bob Howe to share his thoughts on the passing of his long-time friend:
“In 1982 I was playing in Donna Fisk’s band when we were asked if we would play some shows with Frank Ifield. It was a dream job, playing all of Frank’s number one hit songs with him and, for me personally, to play the iconic harmonica intro to his most memorable…’I Remember You’. By then, he had been a ‘hillbilly’ star in Australia in the Fifties and a huge pop star in the U.K. in the Sixties. This led to worldwide fame and in the Seventies, a move back to Country Music, his original passion.
Frank Ifield and Bob Howe in Corby, U.K. 1985 – Photo by Peter Gwilt
By 1984, I was on the road with Frank in the U.K. and he would pick me up from my Grandma’s house in his Rolls Royce and off we would go, playing for his many fans across the country – fans that he had endless time for, no matter how far we travelled. Frank loved to tell stories and he charmed everyone he met – notably my Grandma in Rugby, who he would visit for a cup of tea and a chat, even if I wasn’t there!
We played all over the country with top U.K. band ‘Barbary Coast’ who accompanied him for many years, including at all the top British country music festivals. I continued to tour with Frank, via the Far East and then back to Australia in the late Eighties.
Frank had a deep-seated desire to help other Australia artists achieve exposure overseas and for this he created the ‘Frank Ifield International Spur Award’. For 23 years, with the support of Galston Rotary Club and ‘Canterbury Country’ in Sydney, the award fostered widespread International airplay for its talented recipients.
My wife Karen and I were privileged to celebrate lots of special occasions with Frank and his wife Carole and the Ifield family – each event a treasured memory. Frank was a man of boundless enthusiasm and a zest for life. We are all better for having known him. Rest In Peace Frank. ” – Bob Howe
We offer our heartfelt thanks to Bob for his contribution. The board of the CMAA send our sincere condolences to Frank’s wife Carole and his family at this sad time, on behalf of the Australian country music industry.
Bob talked with Michael Pavlich on ABC Radio’s Overnights program , in the early hours of Tuesday 4th June 2024.
CLICK HERE to hear the entire show, or listen to the extract about Frank Ifield below:-
At the June Canterbury Country show, we paid tribute to our dear friend, FRANK IFIELD with this video :-
Mar 3 2024
The Good Old Days Of Rock ‘n’ Roll
What fun playing guitar for the The Good Old Days Of Rock ‘n’ Roll show at the Pavilion Performing Arts Centre in Sutherland (March 2) and Anita’s Theatre in Thirroul (March 3). A full cast of legendary Australian performers – Jade Hurley, Digger Revell, Little Pattie, Dinah Lee and Lucky Starr. All stars, performing brilliantly at sold-out venues. Killer band too – Graeme Fisher (drums, MD), Peter Gray (bass) and Michael Bellemore/Joseph Macri (keyboards).
Dec 17 2022
Last Show for 2022
L to R: Stephen Fisher-King, Greg Johns, Howard Ward, Di Solomon, Bob Howe
Here we are backstage at Club Forster in NSW – my last gig for 2022 and the last 70s Unplugged show before it gets rebranded as 70s REWIND. See you in 2023! (Photo courtesy of Howard Ward Music)
Jun 9 2022
Canterbury Country – Back In The Saddle Again!
After an absence of over two years, Canterbury Country has returned to the stage of Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club in Sydney. Pictured above L to R: George Washingmachine, Clare O’Meara, Kenny Kitching (obscured), Bryen Willems, Damien Odell, Amelia Richards, Dani Young, Steve Gunning (obscured), Matt McNeilly, Allan Tomkins, Bob Howe. The shows will continue on the second Thursday of each month.
Jul 27 2020
Jump!
During this lockdown period, I thought I’d try to practice and exercise at the same time…
On seeing this photo, award-winning comedian Darren Carr was inspired to comment:
(In a David Attenborough voice) “Here we see the very beautiful and mystifying Bearded Bob frolicking in the wild whilst fingering his purple bodied Tomkins Guitar. Sporting his traditional and spectacularly patterned sleeveless mating vest and ironically named trainers, he has not been spotted in recent months and this may have impacted on this very rare, loutish behaviour.”
(In a David Attenborough voice) “Here we see the very beautiful and mystifying Bearded Bob frolicking in the wild whilst fingering his purple bodied Tomkins Guitar. Sporting his traditional and spectacularly patterned sleeveless mating vest and ironically named trainers, he has not been spotted in recent months and this may have impacted on this very rare, loutish behaviour.”
Thanks for the laughs Darren, and thanks to John Dalton for the photography.
Apr 20 2019
Nicki sings Carole
Of the many shows where you might see Bob playing guitar, two of the most exciting are ‘Tapestry – The Concert’ and the more intimate performance ‘Nicki Gillis sings Carole King’. Pictured above: Nicki and the band on stage at The Juniors (photo by Laura). Below right: Suzy Leigh and the band at Club Burwood.
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Check Bob’s Gig Guide for his next appearance with these great shows! |
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Feb 14 2019
Valentine’s Day 2019
Sydney’s most popular regular country music show CANTERBURY COUNTRY kicked off its 2019 season with a ‘VALENTINE’S DANCE NIGHT’. It was a full house as the HILLBILLY HEAVEN band had a date with THE WESTERN DISTRIBUTORS. The finale brought the two bands together as a 14-piece supergroup! L to R: Bob Howe, Kenny Kitching, Clare O’Meara, George Washingmachine, Allan Tomkins, Cathy Wearne, Guy Donnellan, Nicki Gillis, Andrew Travers, Ned Wu, Michael Vidale, John Kaldor, Tomi Graso, Terry Phillpot
Jan 26 2019
Australia Day 2019
Bob was in full Aussie mode for the 2019 Australia Day weekend of celebrations at the Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club in Sydney. On the Sunday afternoon, Bob and AIMEE HANNAN (pictured below) performed a special acoustic all-Australian music version of the ‘Sunday Sessions’. The previous afternoon, Bob had performed with the ‘Greg Hooper All-Star Band’ (Greg, Bob, Peter Gray and Merv Dick) in concert along with the Australian music icon LITTLE PATTIE.
Jan 18 2019
70s Unplugged & Electrified
On special occasions, Bob enjoys being part of the 70s Unplugged & Electrified show. The video above is an excerpt of the guitar solo from the closing number featuring here:- Bob on lead guitar, Stephen Fisher-King on acoustic guitar, Jo Elms on guitar and vocals, Victor Rounds on bass, Greg Johns on drums and Greg Hooper on keyboards. The cheer squad is courtesy of Bob’s excitable niece Emma!
70’s Unplugged said: “Our very own Rock-God Bob Howe… making the girls weak at the knees after an awesome show at Club Central Menai!
Jan 13 2019
Reg Lindsay on DVD
The Reg Lindsay – Country All The Way DVD is out now, containing highlights from both of his Logie-winning TV series (The Country & Western Hour broadcast from Adelaide and Reg Lindsay’s Country Homestead from Brisbane). Also included are many of Reg’s other television appearances and video clips, interviews with showbiz celebrities, and a photo gallery. Produced by Ros Lindsay, this DVD is a collector’s item and a fitting reminder of one of Australia’s greatest country music pioneers! The DVD is available at the Reg Lindsay website.
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A personal note:- “Forty years ago, I was lucky to be playing in the band for Reg Lindsay’s Country Homestead. Every fortnight, Reg, Heather McKean, Pee Wee Clark and myself would fly to Brisbane and record two episodes in one day at the studios of QTQ 9 with a great team of local musicians. This new DVD is the first time any of those shows have been released. As well as all of the great music from Reg, I was delighted the DVD included the first time I ever backed Lucky Starr and also Doug Ashdown (even though I had opened for Doug in a folk club four years earlier in 1975). Whereas most of the shows were shot in the studio, two of my favourites were filmed on location. There are several songs here from the ‘Live At The Barn’ episodes, recorded in front of an audience at a Brisbane hotel. Pictured above left, you can see an aerial shot from inside The Barn with Doug perched on the edge of the stage next to Reg. Above right, you can see Pee Wee, Reg and yours truly. Happy memories!” – Bob
Nov 20 2018
Golden Boys at Club Central
I’m looking forward to once again being one of the ‘Golden Boys of Aussie Rock’n’Roll’ alongside the legendary LUCKY STARR and ROLAND STORM at Club Central Hurstville on Sunday 2nd December 2018 at 3.30pm.
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During the last twelve months I’ve been delighted to have had a hand in producing Lucky’s ‘Most Requested Songs’ album and also Roland’s latest album, just released this month, ‘Come Go With Me’. |
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I first worked with Lucky in the late seventies and later with Roland in the eighties. It will be a privilege to share the concert stage with them again.
– Bob
Sep 30 2018
Dam Good Drought Relief
During September 2018, Bob Howe was privileged to perform for 10 days in a row at the Pacific Square Maroubra shopping centre as part of the Dam Good Drought Relief initiative. Bob regaled the crowds with an ever-changing selection of country music favourites to draw attention to the fund-raising efforts.
In total, Maroubra shoppers donated $8,903.40 which Pacific Square dollar matched to donate a total of $17,806.80. 100% of funds will go to Rural Aid Australia Buy a Bale initiative providing farmers with much needed support. Nationally the campaign raised $172,000 across 19 Charter Hall Shopping Centres, to be donated to Aussie Farmers. For more info head to the Rural Aid Australia Website www.buyabale.com.au
Aug 11 2018
SunPAC Sold Out!
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Pictured above: Pictured right: Stephen, Jo and Bob arrive back at Sydney Airport. |
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Jul 13 2018
NEW CD for 2018
Bob has released a new CD for 2018
NOW SHOWING
It contains a selection of Great Movie & TV Themes and songs featured in many films and shows.
(21 instrumentals and 3 songs)
17 newly-recorded tracks plus
7 bonus tracks revamped, remixed and remastered from previous (out of print) albums…
The CD is available at Bob’s shows or by mail order.
Check it out here…
Dec 22 2017
The Highwayman on the charts!
New Single – Fisk, Fisk & Howe – ‘The Highwayman’
Following its media release on CRS 197, The Highwayman entered the Country Tracks Chart at #35, spent two weeks at #24 , then climbed twenty places to #4. It remained in the chart for eighteen weeks !
The single track can be purchased via CD Baby, Amazon USA, Amazon UK and iTunes.
You can read more about it by clicking here…
Latest News: In the special Top 40 Country Tracks Chart for 2017, The Highwayman was #11 overall for the year AND #1 most played in the Group/Band category! Thank you to everyone in radioland for your support.
Nov 30 2017
Frank Ifield’s 80th Birthday!
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On 30th November 2017, Frank Ifield celebrated his 80th Birthday with a party on-board the Rhythmboat, cruising Sydney Harbour. It was a star-studded affair attended by Judy Stone, Rob E.G., Frankie Davidson, Glenn A. Baker, Graham Webb, Benny Elias, Nicki Gillis, Wayne Horsburgh, Tommy Moeller from Unit 4 + 2, and Alan Lancaster from Status Quo to name just a few! Bob was delighted to deliver one of the speeches and he told anecdotes from his first meeting with Frank in 1982, becoming his Musical Director in the U.K. in 1984, through to the current day. As you can see in the photo (above right), Frank was royally amused! The photo being displayed behind Bob has a history…
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This image of Frank Ifield and Bob Howe was taken at the Corby Fun Day in the U.K. on 21st July 1985 by photographer Peter Gwilt. Frank donated his fringed suede jacket to the Coventry Music Museum where it is currently exhibited. The museum’s book Nov 22 2017
Golden Boys at The Joan
Roland Storm, Lucky Starr and Bob Howe – backstage at The Joan
22nd November 2017:
Today I was honoured to be one of the ‘Golden Boys of Aussie Rock’n’Roll’ (Junior rank) alongside the legendary LUCKY STARR and ROLAND STORM at The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith.
Thanks go to maestro Greg Hooper and his band of merry men – Bill Kezelos and John Coker – for the brilliant musical accompaniment and to the staff of The Joan for their great support.
I first worked with Lucky in the late seventies and later with Roland in the eighties. It was a privilege to share the concert stage with them again.
– Bob
Nov 17 2017
Jade Hurley single release
Bob is proud to be a featured musician on the single ‘Don’t Fly Too High’
by “Australia’s King of Country Rock” – JADE HURLEY.
Oct 28 2017
Elvis has left the building…
28th October 2017: At ‘The Juniors’ club, with Jack Gatto – ELVIS: That’s The Way It Was
L to R: Briget, Jacqueline, Peter, Jack, Alan, Leon and Bob
Oct 1 2017
Nicki tops UK chart!
Congratulations to NICKI GILLIS –
#1 on the UK Hotdisc charts for three weeks!
From Nicki: 7th August 2017: Very excited to wake up to the news today that my new single “In the Daylight” entered the UK Hotdisc Chart at #14!
It takes a team of people to make things happen…I can’t do it all on my own…. so I would like to thank… Bob Howe for co-writing and producing the single. Your patience is incredible!
My best friend Tracey Fickling for your courage and inspiration!! My manager and business partner Tracy Dann for your amazing support! A super big thank you to Ozan Fikri and the team at Fikri Films for the video! We had fun filming despite how cold it really was!! And to my Mum Lucy D’Olimpio, for your absolute love and support. – Nicki xx
Jun 18 2017
Touring Down South 2017
 Pictured above, Bob, Greg and Wayne in front of the Swanpool Hall (photo by Phil) and pictured above right, Greg, Wayne and Bob on the Swanpool Hall/Cinema stage (photo by Brooke). |
Wayne Horsburgh’s ‘Love That Country Music’ show has been on the road again. First to the NSW/Victoria border for a fantastic show as part of the Corowa Country Music Roundup, and then further south to Swanpool. This was the area where Wayne grew up and he first sang at the Swanpool Hall at the age of eight! Now also home to a wonderful local cinema, ‘Love That Country Music’ played to a sold-out crowd and a rousing homecoming reception for Wayne.
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Sightseeing: Wayne, Bob and Greg in front of the nearby Swanpool Uniting Church, as featured on the cover of Wayne’s ‘The Old Country Church’ album which was produced by Bob and Michael Vidale (photo by Phil Keast).
Apr 14 2017
Hartwood Festival 2017
The Hartwood Campfires & Country Music Festival is held at Hartwood, a 1680-
Bob and his guitar get down amongst the crowd. (Photo by Wayne)
Bobs view: Wayne & Greg and the fabulous crowd!
Mar 28 2017
Frank Ifield Recommends…
It’s always great to get a personal endorsement for your latest CD album, especially when it comes from a bona fide pop music legend…Frank Ifield!
Frank was especially pleased that I chose to duet with not one, but three winners of the Frank Ifield International Spur Award:-
Nicki Gillis (on Love Hurts), Wayne Horsburgh (on Bye Bye Love) and Donna Fisk (on The Highwayman).
The Highwayman track also features Gene Bradley Fisk along with Donna Fisk and myself – perhaps the first multi-generational, mixed-gender version of Jimmy Webb’s brilliant song.
As well as being the final track on my album ‘Act Naturally’, radio presenters can find The Highwayman on the current media release of CRS 197.
The CD album can be purchased by mail-order here and the single track can be purchased via CD Baby, Amazon and iTunes.
You can read more about it by clicking here…
I hope you enjoy it!
– Bob
Mar 9 2017
Award Winners Show 2017
At the Canterbury Country show in Sydney, FRANK IFIELD presented the 2017 Frank Ifield International Spur Award
(in association with Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club and Galston Rotary Club) to….TROY KEMP !!
The cast of the show (L to R) :- NICKI GILLIS, KENNY KITCHING, BOB HOWE, WAYNE HORSBURGH,
FRANK IFIELD, EMMA HANNAH, MATT McNEILLY, AMELIA RICHARDS, TROY KEMP
Jan 26 2017
Happy Australia Day 2017!
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Above right: Backstage at Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club for a ‘Celebration of Australian Songs & Singers’
with multi-award winners Bob Howe, Nicki Gillis and Greg Hooper plus Greg Hayes -Tribute to Slim Dusty.
L to R: Greg Hooper, Malcolm Hamerston (drums), Greg Hayes, Nicki Gillis, Bob Howe
Dec 31 2016
Happy New Year!
 Ringing in the New Year with music and laughs – The SOUNDS OF THE SIXTIES show at Matraville RSL Club in Sydney. L to R: Bob Howe, Graeme Fisher, Tony Hogan, Barbara Montgomery, Rick James, Michael Agosti. |
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Dec 8 2016
Christmas 2016 and more…
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Canterbury Country wound up the year in fine form with a star-studded concert and lots of surprises. Guest artist DONNA FISK surprised the audience and ‘Birthday Boy’ Bob with a video montage of their TV appearances from the early 80s, followed by a cake presentation from Bob’s wife Karen. Surprise guest WAYNE HORSBURGH sang ‘Diamantina Yodel’ which Bob co-wrote with his brother-in-law JOHN DALTON who was in the audience and for the first time got to hear the song performed live. Bob was delighted to celebrate his upcoming birthday with so many friends and family, including (pictured above) his long-time dear friends FRANK IFIELD and DONNA FISK.
Oct 31 2016
NEW CD for 2016
Bob has released a new CD for 2016 –
ACT NATURALLY
It contains 26 Country and Western Classics (21 songs and 5 instrumentals), and includes duets with Wayne Horsburgh and Nicki Gillis, a duel with pianist Greg Hooper, and a ‘trio’ with Gene Bradley Fisk and Donna Fisk.
The CD is available at Bob’s shows or by mail order.
Check it out here…
Oct 28 2016
SINGING DOWN THE SOUTH COAST
‘LOVE THAT COUNTRY MUSIC’ show at St George’s Basin Country Club, October 2016.
Greg Hooper, Wayne Horsburgh and Bob Howe
Jun 12 2016
In the Lion’s Den
The Tomkins Guitars All-Star Honky-Tonk Band were at the Lions Den Hotel,
near Cooktown QLD on the 2016 Queen’s Birthday long weekend! 
L to R: Terry Phillpot, Anthony Taylor, Allan Tomkins, Bob Howe
May 25 2016
40 Years in the Studio!
 LP cover |
Today marks the 40th anniversary of Bob’s first professional recording session. He played on three tracks at the Festival Records studio in Sydney, for what would become a Reg Lindsay LP entitled The Travellin’ Man. The session was produced by Martin Erdman and featured Heather McKean on backing vocals, Reg’s regular band member Pee Wee Clark on pedal steel guitar, along with session players Milton Saunders on piano (pictured right with Bob at a recent gig) and, from the jazz-rock fusion band Crossfire, Greg Lyon on bass and Doug Gallacher on drums. Bob went on to appear over 100 other albums and countless singles! |
 Milton and Bob in May 2016 |
May 8 2016
FRANK IFIELD REMEMBERS
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“It was my honour on the Mother’s Day weekend, to direct the band for my old mate FRANK IFIELD as he performed his autobiographical show at The Seymour Centre in Sydney and The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre in Penrith. The show also featured yodeller WAYNE HORSBURGH, chanteuse NICKI GILLIS, and a BRODIE MILES as the Young Frank. “34 years after first working with Frank and 32 years on from becoming his Musical Director, it was a thrill to be sharing the stage again with a pop music icon and a dear friend.” – Bob
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 Wayne Horsburgh, Frank Ifield, Nicki Gillis, Bob Howe  At ‘The Joan’ – Brodie Miles (as Young Frank), Wayne, Frank, Nicki, the band |
The Orchestra:- Alan Freeman, Bob Howe, Frank Ifield, Leon Isackson, Robin Workman
Apr 5 2016
Gigging around…
 Celebrating St Patrick’s Day at Dooleys, March 17th – The Trojans band with Patrick Brady and his Irish Dancers |
 Celebrating Seniors Week at the Guilford Leagues Club 5th April Gala Day with Denise Drysdale |
Mar 6 2016
BOB sings BUCK!
BOB HOWE sings BUCK OWENS
Bob Howe has debuted his new “Tribute to BUCK OWENS” with a 40-minute performance at Club Central Hurstville in Sydney, Australia.
The audience ‘whooped & hollered’ and sang-along as Bob performed more than a dozen #1 hits by country music legend Buck Owens, including Act Naturally and Made In Japan.
As well as invoking Buck’s vocal style, Bob also recreated some of the twangin’ guitar of Buck and his right-hand man Don Rich, including the instrumental hit Buckaroo.
The show also featured anecdotes and stories from the life of Buck Owens, from his birth in Texas to success in the honky-tonks of Bakersfield, and on to worldwide acclaim with performances at Carnegie Hall and the Sydney Opera House. Not forgetting the TV hit show “Hee Haw”, the crowd delighted in the cornball humour of the Pickin’ & Grinnin’ segment.
Buck Owens closed many concerts with his chart-topping version of a rockin’ song about the little country boy “who played the guitar just like a-ringin’ a bell”. Bob Howe also chose to end his tribute with Johnny B. Goode, which also featured the musical prowess of the backing band and left the audience calling for “More!”
Jan 26 2016
Happy Australia Day 2016!
Steel guitar maestro Michel Rose, Bob Howe, Grammy winner Redd Volkaert
26th January 2016:
What a great way to spend Australia Day, with a fabulous bunch of musicians:-
Michel Rose, Redd Volkaert, Brad Bergen, Allan Tomkins, Nicki Gillis and Terry Phillpot.
Thanks again to our hosts Dennis & Vivien!
 Michel, Bob, Redd, Brad, Allan |
 Brad, Nicki, Bob |
Jan 22 2016
Tamworth Festival 2016
Lonnie Lee and the Leemen onstage at the Tamworth Services Club. (Photo by Michael Parsons)
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January 2016: Bob was called in as a last minute temporary replacement guitarist for Lonnie Lee’s band, The Leemen. They played seven shows at the Tamworth Services Club (pictured above) followed by a rockin’ night at the Wallsend Diggers, to a sold-out crowd.  Alan Freeman, Bob Howe, Lonnie Lee, Leon Isackson, backstage. (Wallsend photos by Suzanne) |
 Bob and Lonnie Lee, onstage at Wallsend Diggers. |
Bob also opened the ‘TOMKINS GUITAR SHOWCASE’ at West Tamworth League Club on January 21st.
Pictured below is Anthony Taylor, Redd Volkaert, Bob Howe, Allan Tomkins and Brad Bergen.
The band is playing ‘Diamondtina Yodel’, the tune Bob named after his ‘Diamondtina 2’ model Tomkins custom guitar.
Aug 23 2015
Howe, Horsburgh & Howie @ Hexham
Howe, Horsburgh & Howie @ Hexham
23rd August 2015: A Sunday afternoon of fun and music at Hexham Bowling Club with
Bob Howe, Wayne Horsburgh and Graeme Howie (of the Howie Brothers – no relation!)
Aug 13 2015
Canterbury Country Rocks!
Thursday 13th August 2015 was show #174 for Canterbury Country, now in its 16th year.
Entitled ‘HILLBILLY vs ROCKABILLY’, the night saw the crowd dance the night away to two great bands –
THE MIGHTY GUYS (Leon, Brian, Alan) and
THE HILLBILLY HEAVEN BAND (Bob, Allan, Terry, Tomi, Doug & Nicki).
Pictured left, lead guitarists Brian Dean and Bob Howe:
“Country music has rockabilly on its knees but not for long…Rockabilly is soon back on its feet and lives to fight another day! And the winner is…The Audience!”
(Photo and caption by Michael Parsons)
The Mighty Guys meet Hillbilly Heaven
L to R: ALLAN, TERRY, ALAN, NICKI, BOB, DOUG, LEON, TOMI, BRIAN (Photo by KVee)
Aug 11 2015
Vale Pee Wee Clark
R.I.P. PEE WEE CLARK, ‘The Georgia Gentleman’ – a wonderful pedal steel guitar player and musician. Born in Macon, Georgia in 1930 and inducted into ‘The Australian Steel Guitar Hall Of Fame’ in 2012.
When I did my first professional recording session with Reg Lindsay in 1976, Pee Wee was on the steel guitar. He also played on my first record, ‘Prime Country’. Lots of memories of working with Pee Wee on stage and sharing the hotel room with him when we worked on the ‘Reg Lindsay’s Country Homestead’ TV show, flying to Brisbane to record two episodes every fortnight.
Pictured left and below, Pee Wee cheers me on at the end of my first solo TV feature, a rendition of Guitar Boogie, 19th April 1979.
Aug 9 2015
Vale Audrey Auld
Vale AUDREY AULD who passed away on August 9th 2015 in California, aged 51. Born in Tasmania, Audrey was a great talent and had been living in California and Nashville for many years, creating and touring her unique music. I made sure she was on the very first Canterbury Country show over 15 years ago now, and she was always a welcome return visitor. We always had a good laugh whenever we saw her. She gave me two career highlights – singing Keiran Kane’s part with her when she sang the song ‘Harmony’ for us – and playing guitar with her in Nashville at the 2008 Tomkins Guitar Showcase. Treasured memories. Bless you Aud xx Our thoughts go out to her beloved husband Mez.
Bob Howe, Audrey Auld and Allan Tomkins at the Tomkins Showcase in Nashville 2008
(Peter Figures on drums)
From the Audrey Auld Newsletter, June 2008:
Downunder Takeover!
“Loads of Aussies hit Nashville recently….listening to the Tomkins’ Aussie showcase…I was proud to hear the excellent country guitar of Bob Howe, shuffling the beejesus out of classic country songs, along with Alan Tomkins and Peter Figures.”
Aug 1 2015
CD Reviews
New reviews for The Silver Collection:-
CD Review by FRANK IFIELD:-
If you were lucky enough to have been around in the 50s and 60s when instrumental hits were in vogue, topping the worldwide hit parades, then you will be as excited as I was on hearing the new album by BOB HOWE called ‘The Silver Collection’.
It features twenty five unbelievably good and uniquely crafted tracks. Each tune from beginning to end paints its own musical picture.
Wait till you hear track eight which is a song mostly attributed to myself as being my greatest hit; but Bob will surprise you all, as he did to me, with a most imaginative version of I Remember You I have heard. It is sheer magic…as too are his interpretations of The Shadows tunes – Wonderful Land and Apache.
His rendition of Eric Clapton’s Tears In Heaven had me reaching for handfuls of tissues while Maria Elena made me feel warm and fuzzy as if I were transported to some exotic locale. Runaway has always been a favourite of mine – and Bob’s interpretation makes me feel happy. Even though Del Shannon’s lyric is melancholy, the music brings a smile to my dial. Whiter Shade Of Bach is a great classic and shines brightly again in the hands of Bob’s fine musicianship; as do all the tracks on this exquisite album.
Thanks for this Bob; it has earned a permanent place as music for journeys in my car.
CD Review by GENE BRADLEY FISK:-
Now hear this …I have just received a copy of Bob Howe’s new CD album titled ‘The Silver Collection’ let me tell you it is a superb performance by this Guitar Aficionado, with his takes of guitar favourites and even a touch of the classics, not forgetting some you-beaut harmonica , and an eclectic vocal version of old Chuck’s Roll Over Beethoven… if your a budding guitarist or already a rock god , you should get a copy of this. I have been so moved that I have (with Bob’s permission) used two of his tracks as my opening and closing themes for my radio show OZ Country (Sunday Nights at 7pm). To capture this magic for your ears go to his website.
Jul 21 2015
Vale Buddy Emmons
Vale BUDDY EMMONS – (January 27, 1937 – July 21, 2015) -“The World’s Foremost Steel Guitarist”.
Photos from 7th June 1984: During my first trip to the USA, my friend DeWitt Scott (Scotty) kindly took me to Jeffran College in Hermitage, Tennessee. When we arrived, Buddy Emmons was in full flight, pausing only between tunes to munch on M&M’s. Scotty told me we were up next but Buddy had been playing all morning and was taking a well-deserved break.
So it was that Scotty (on his Rickenbacker ‘frying pan’) and myself (on borrowed guitar), took to the stage along with Jeff Newman on pedal steel and Bob Browning on vocals, to follow Buddy’s blistering performance. A memorable day for me. R.I.P Buddy.
 …Bob, Jeff Newman, Buddy (The Big ‘E’)… |
 …Bob, Scotty (DeWitt Scott), Jeff |
Jul 1 2015
Vale Val Doonican
Back in early 1992, I had the pleasure of playing guitar for VAL DOONICAN on his Australian and New Zealand tour – almost two dozen shows. Val was a wonderful talent and a kind and generous man. His lovely wife Lynn was there too and there was a party at Tweed Heads for Val’s 65th birthday with lots of ‘senior’ jokes at his expense which he took in good fun.
Val told us that he always remembered his early days in Ireland, when the band would be given terrible ‘digs’ while the star of the show stayed at swanky hotels. He vowed back then he would never be like that and so it was; wherever he stayed, we stayed. It was my first trip to New Zealand and, thanks to Val, the band experience included the Hilton, the Regent, and many other fine accommodations.
I’ll never forget all those airport check-ins with his trademark ‘rocking chair’ being loaded as excess baggage. I hope St. Peter had a comfy rocker and an Aran jumper waiting for him.
Mar 27 2015
NEW CD for 2015
Bob has released a new CD for 2015 – THE SILVER COLLECTION.
It contains 10 newly-recorded instrumental tracks plus 15 bonus tracks revamped, remixed and remastered from previous albums that are no longer available.
The CD is available at Bob’s shows or by mail order.
Check it out here…
Mar 14 2015
Gigs and Shows…
 Poster at Club Central…
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 …showtime at Twin Towns Services Club
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The Hillbilly Heaven band with Bryen Willems & Tori Darke
Mar 12 2015
Donna Fisk wins Spur Award
Congratulations to my dear friend DONNA FISK, winner of the 2015 Frank Ifield International Spur Award.
The award was presented on 12th March 2015 at the Canterbury Country show in Sydney.
Here is Frank’s account of the night in his own words…
” What a fabulous time was had by all at The International Spur Award night at Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL (who graciously co-sponsor the award). The atmosphere was electric and the packed house was full of friendly familiar smiling faces and unexpected surprises too, as we were graced by the presence of such Australian celebrities such as the legendary singers Col Joye and Ray Burgess.
The show kicked off with Bob Howe fronting the Hillbilly Heaven Band with their highly entertaining and professional performance, followed by multi-award winner from Victoria, Donna Fisk. Her presence lit up the room and her unique vocal style immediately captured every musical ear.
Next, the stage belonged to my 2010 Spur award winner, Johanna Hemara. I am always delighted when my conviction for each of my awardees becomes justified and once again Johanna proved worthy of my faith. Her yodelling is superb but the showstopper for me was her heartfelt rendition of Roy Orbison’s classic ‘Crying’ which features on her most recent CD called ‘I Yodel in my Dreams’. Except for Bob Howe and me, it was an all-girl show as the next artist was my 2009 winner, Nicki Gillis who is a regular co-host and singer on many of these monthly Canterbury Country shows. Nicki, with yearly tours to the UK and a plethora of European Country music top ten hits including a number one to her credit, has undoubtedly become our most successful Spur award winner and I regard her as a great role model for future aspiring young Australian talent.
Then I made my entrance on stage and spoke of how I was transported in my mind to the early 80’s. You see, in 1982 I came on one of my many tours of Australia and finished in Victoria. I rehearsed in Melbourne with a very impressive local Country band called ‘Hot Diggity’ and their lead singer was a dynamic young teenager named Donna Fisk. She is the daughter of well-known Australian Country Singer Gene Bradley Fisk and she had me captivated by the uniqueness of her voice from the very first time I saw her perform.
Again in 1984 I returned to tour ‘Down Under’ and found myself working again with the Hot Diggity Band at the Moomba Festival. I was to sing from a moving boat as it made its way down along the Yarra River. Trouble was, I could only hear myself sing intermittently as we passed the speakers on the shore line. The band leader was a young guitarist called Bob Howe who not only impressed me by his musicianship, but also his prowess as being totally unflappable in any crisis. I said “If ever you come to England give me a call and I will get you to work with me”. No sooner had I got back to the UK, Bob turned up and gave me a call. This was a moment that turned into not only a decade of touring together but also forged a lifelong friendship.
Now, many years later, I watched as Donna Fisk held the crowd in the palm of her hand, knowing that she was totally unaware that she was about to become the recipient of the 2015 International Spur Award. Sponsor of the trophy is the Rotary Club of Galston and their representative is Richard Young who had much to do with the running of ‘The Galston Country Music Festival’. He has been to many of these Award nights and offered his sincere congratulations on what he considered the best Spur Award show he had seen.
When I proclaimed Donna as the winner she was gobsmacked! However, she managed to compose herself and spoke in such glowing terms of me that in the end I was the one left speechless.
I was able to tell Donna and the audience that her song ‘Still In Love With You’ had just entered the European and the UK country music chart at number 39 after having only being released last week. ” – Frank Ifield
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