You are a legend Mr Lyons I was very young during Ten Years Later I love your music and the band I can listen to your stories for days thank you for the music.
Thank you for your service!! You did change the world. You did know what to do. TYA will always be remembered as one of the greatest bands of the 60s and 70s.
Leo is such a gentleman, and such a great story teller. It's wonderful to know he misses performing live. In 1970, when I was nine, my older brother turned me on to side one of 'Undead' and my life hasn't been the same since. All four musicians perform amazingly well on that entire album. I still shake my head in disbelief at that performance at Klooks Kleek!
I remember that in 1978 my brother, who is in heaven, was listening to a song that blew my mind and made me shudder at 12 years old, it was the one in presentation at Woodstock. I remember it and my throat tightens. A big hug and thanks for your beautiful music!
What an absolute, old school, gent. Thank you for those memories. A natural storyteller. I remember my 13 year old brother getting Recorded Live for ‘73 Christmas, I recall. Although, as a 9 year old, it was advanced musically, I was hooked. My brother would not take me to TYA’s last gig at Newcastle City Hall in ‘74, something for which I have not forgiven him, I managed to see Alvin three times, the last being in 2004.His last tour of Britain. I have never seen Leo, Ric or Chick unfortunately. Thanks you Leo.
What a great human being. It's very pleasant to listen to him talk. I've loved TYA since I was about 14(40 years now!) and I'm always amazed by their truthful and faithfulness to their roots. Alt, there's so much to say about a bassist that has to "cover" when the only guitarist goes into a solo. Leo did that beautifully! Thanks for the fantastic music 😎
My very first concert was TYA in 1971 at the International Amphitheater in Chicago. Probably in November. I was a freshman in HS. John Mayall opened the show. I'll never forget it! They did FOUR encores! Even after the house lights went on, they came back out and played another tune! It was unbelievable! At that point we were in the 10th row from the stage. Quite a memory! Thanks for the memories Leo!
@@LeoLyonsMusician Hi Leo, thanks so much for the reply! I had and still do have a cherry red Gibson ES 335 and at that time, I idolized Alvin Lee. I went on to play in bands and go to school for music. I received a Masters degree and achieved a Doctorate in music from the University of Illinois. More info than I'm sure you needed or wanted but it's just to say that every experience I had, including meeting B B King and many others, fueled my passion and interest in music. I'm sure growing up you had similar experiences so it's up to us all to pass on what we know and our love for the art of music. Thank you again! By the way, I heard TYA live a total of 4 times back then and they were always GREAT concerts. I think I could still play all of the cuts on the double live album! Sincerely, Tim Burns
@@timburns6137 Hi Tim. Thanks for your story. I believe music and all the arts are vital to counteract the negativity that's around in the world. Spread the joy. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Just a thought Leo, but if you're ever in the Chicago or Midwest area, I would love to come out and hear you and maybe play a tune or two with you!Please let me know. In the meantime, I'm really enjoying your videos!
Even ,though I kinda met You and Ric at a Sam Ash one Fri .nite on L.I. yrs ago-One of My biggest regrets was not seeing T.Y.A. live . We ,were huge lovin that Band & That ,huge fringed western jacket You were wearing ,is still pictured . Man great time . Thanks.so much...
we got to keep music going strong words mr lyons and so true !!! the music will be always here for ever and ever . but what i hope from the bottom of my heart is that great artist like you and menny others can go on the road again .
As a nine year old in 1970 life was so fantastic with all the great music that was around. Ten years after were such a great band to listen to, people who listened to your music leo are probably the most loyal fans, it's still a big part of my life to this day. Brilliant to listen to your memories leo as you've been there done that got the T shirt music wise, really enjoying your stuff leo, keep it going 👍
I just discovered your UA-cam channel Leo! Wow....release the Isle of Wight Festival! My 2nd concert was 10 Year's After & ZZ Top @ the Capital Center in Landover Maryland in 1972! 🎶❄🌎❄🎶
You have been a major influence for me as a young bass player. I saw your performance at Woodstock at 13 (on VHS tape - I wasn't there unfortunately!) and my life changed. Thank you for the deep and constant inspiration. Edoardo.
I will never forget the first time I heard the album 'Shhh' as a teenager, that album really stood out! TYA definitely had a unique sound. Glad I found your channel Leo, enjoying all your uploads.
Thank you, Leo, for these videos. I was a huge TYA fan from the time I first saw the Woodstock movie. I promptly went out and purchased Undead and still play that LP today occasionally. Also Watt, and your Recorded Live album. Saw you live in Chicago in 1974 and you were great! It was incredible how much energy you put into your playing, it made the band that much more exciting to watch. It's so good to hear the artist's version of those days, and what life was like on the road.
It’s the 9th LP/ CD I have bought in my 67 years of life and your still in my mind one of the greatest rock/ blues bands to come out of the UK and I loved your piece on this channel regarding the Isle of Wight ...I went to see Dylan and I have been to several bath blues festival... I still think that period was a beautiful explosion of great British music and your piece of love like a man still makes the hair stand with good morning little school girl ....not a song that would go down to well today thanks to the likes of Paul gawd aka Gary glitter .......thank you for your amazing music
@@johnphillips2867 Hi John true comment about 'Schoolgirl.' It's still one of the most requested songs live. My band HSS still plays it. I should change the lyrics.
Your stories are always incredible Leo, Rory Gallagher is my favorite guitarist and the idea of seeing Taste and Ten Years After at the same festival has always floored me. Sadly, Rory wrote a song with Taste that describes my life: “Born On The Wrong Side Of Time” since I’m too young to have ever seen him live.
Thanks for watching my videos and for the kind words. I was very lucky to have been around at a very pivotal time in music and saw and worked with many great players. Regards Leo
Dude-I should first say-good morning from Santa Cruz CA where I’m currently at our beach house having coffee-although I live in the Silicone Valley; so much fun to hear you reminisce-No one else can tell our personal stories. Thanks for doing that Leo! Really, really, enjoyed that time you spent here laying that all out for us not there. 5/5/21.
I saw Ten Years After at a place called The Boston Tea Party in Boston, Massachusetts with The Stooges as opener in 1969. I was 16 year old and your band was the first professional band I'd ever seen and you blew the roof off the place, never forgot it, it was still to this day probably the best concert I've been to. I'm a long time bass player and had probably only been playing for a year or two when I saw you and you were one of my heroes when I was learning and I still bring up your name quite a bit when discussing top bass players, I still remember the bass solo you did that night, still remember all the Marshalls you guys had which was really something for me and the other two guys I played with at that time who were with me that night. It was a nice surprise to see that you have a UA-cam channel. Good Morning Little School Girl has always been probably my favorite TYA tune, I have probably all the TYA albums at home, I'm stuck in Peru right now can't get out because the airport's closed, haha! Anyways, rock on, we'll be back out there playing again sooner or later, hopefully sooner. Now that I know you have a new band I'll be checking out your CD's. The band Hundred Seventy Split sounds great by the way. Incidentally I used to play with a guitarist who played with Tiny Tim, I had never met him. I also belong to a US bass forum called Talkbass in which I just put in a link to this video. It's a great club if you're ever bored. www.talkbass.com/threads/leo-lyons-bassist-for-ten-years-after.1481141/
Thanks for the kind words Bob. I have fond memories of playing the Tea Party and also visiting the radio station (was it WBCN? ) Thanks for the Talkbass link. I've subscribed. I wish you a safe journey back home when you're able to travel. In the meantime. Enjoy Peru. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Yup, WBCN, it was one of the earliest "Underground" stations in the US and was constantly in my ear until sometime in the mid 80's. There is a documentary out on the station which is viewable online for a few bucks: theamericanrevolution.fm/ I told my Peruvian wife about our little interaction and she was very impressed even though she's more of a salsa woman. I showed her your solo at The Marquee Club and she said that you put your soul in your playing (this is a very big compliment coming from her as she can't tell the difference between a bass and a guitar, haha!), she also said that I play something like you which was also a huge compliment for me, I had heard that before while playing too. In that thread I posted I suggested that maybe you'd answer a few questions? Incidentally when you played at The Tea Party was WBCN's studio at the Tea Party? They broadcasted from there for a short while. Have you ever met Peter Wolf, lead singer for The J Geils Band? He was an overnight DJ at WBCN very early on, sometime during 1968. Sorry about the barrage of questions. Bob
@@LeoLyonsMusician I remember teh Bentley! I learn more from these vids than the old man. So glad you're well and hope you can get back out on the road soon. Say hi to Joe!
Thank you so much for sharing these videos. The Isle of Wight was a fabled festival and your remembrances are so interesting as are the little insights of what was going on with you and the rest of the group in those times. I'd love to hear about what you remember from one of the UK tours or an American tour in those times. I really enjoy these videos you're putting up. Thanks again.
Great Words from a Gentleman in the Music Business. TYA was my Favorite Band of all time. I'm 69 YO, posted on your March 2021 YT. TYA MUST BE INDUCTED INTO THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME !!!! Otherwise they will be known as the Rock and Roll Hall of Shame (have you seen some of the bands / personalities that have been inducted.....Give me a Break).
Thank you Leo! Oh yes, music is the one thing keeping me "somewhat" sane. Hopefully we'll be getting live music again soon & look forward to hearing Hundred Seventy Split.
@7:00 - interesting about the glider pilot's licence. I was also in the ATC (2423 Squadron in Treorchy, south Wales). I made 3 flights in Chipmunks and 2 in gliders - before the age of 15! Must be a bass player thing!
Hi Paul.Interesting. My squadron was 983. QE Grammar School, Mansfield, Notts. I did just about everything possible. Flying ,shooting, swimming etc. I loved the opportunities. I got a glider pilots licence as early as I could, I think I was 16, but it's lapsed now because I didn't keep up the hours.
Such a pleasure to hear you talking about the events in your amazing musical career. What a time to have played through. Thank you for sharing🙏 Ps.have you written a book about your life story? It would be so intetesting✌️
Thanks for watching. Much appreciated. Re book: I started one about 40 years ago but still haven't finished it. I've been too busy enjoying life day by day but a book something I really should get finished. Regards Leo
Loved the TYA set at IoW. Big fan ever since. Do I recall correctly that you (Leo) had a race with Alvin Lee on stage where you would both play the same rifts alternately at each other at considerable speed ?
Nice to see someone from the great age of rock actually speak to us. Behind the scenes stories are always the best when directly from the actual band member as opposed to so called "experts" talking about it One more time at 8:06 you mention you played "FARMEN" or FAIRMEN" Isles? What it the actual name of the place. Several of us could not make out the name of the place. Thank you.
Hi Buzz. The island is Fehrman Isles, It's part of Germany on the Baltic. There was a very famous festival played there every year. Most of the big bands of the day played there including Hendrix .Regards Leo
Remember Leo taking the time to chat with myself and a mate at the stage front back in 67 during his sound check at Oxford Town Hall. We were full of the recent all night Love In at the Ally Pally and Leo just sounded interested and engaged when he had plenty to do pre show. Decent bloke and the real (dark) star of TYA's Woodstock footage.
@@LeoLyonsMusician You were interested Leo, you told us that you would have loved to play it - it shouldn't be underestimated how much influence simple kindness' and manners can have on young heads - certainly showed me how a few minutes of your time can go a long way. Thanks again.
You are such an inspiration Leo. Your music was the sound of my childhood, a sound I still cherish today. I do sometimes wonder though, what were your thoughts about being on the road for so long? I’ve heard that it could wear a person down. I’ve also been dying to ask, do you have any tips for a beginner musician such as myself about show business? The thought scares me of being on a stage and yet the music continues urging me to take the step.
In answer to your questions. Yes being on the road does wear you down and you have to really love music to stand the test longterm. Success is good but not enough of a reward fo all the things you have to give up. Ask yourself if you want to be a musician above all other things ie. security, a homelife etc. These are a few of the things that can suffer from your musical career. For me music is a drug. Tips for the music business: There would be many but firstly believe in what you have to offer. You will find the business hard and you'll experience 99% rejection. Good luck.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thank you so much for the advice, Leo! Only time will tell if my love for the art will withstand the pressures of performance. If anything, I can just perform at small events and open mic nights to get the satisfaction of performing without the added weight of being in the industry. Thank you!
Such a shame that TYA set for Isle Of Wight was never released Leo, do you know if they planned a film footage release as well as audio, or just Audio-only ? It should be YOUR'S (& Ric, Chick & Alvin's) property as much as any Film or music distributors property. Though ,rumor has it, the music business doesn't always work like that! Please let us know if there's any news on an Isle Of Wight release :)
Hi Mark. I don't know the politics on the IOW record release. I agreed to it being released in 2020 but it's not happened so far. It's down to film companies, various record labels, former band members and Alvin's estate to all agree. As for film product that' s something else. I don't know what the current status is. Regards Leo
Two questions. I couldn't make out the isle where a festival was to be played. It sounded like the "Firman Isles?" Secondly, what did you think of Hendrix? I've read that Alvin Lee, Clapton, Beck et al were all in attendance the first time Jimi played in London with Brian Auger at the Cromwellian Club, then later at Blazes, and everyone's jaw dropped once JImi started to play.
Hi Dapinelli. The Isle Of Wight is a small island off the UK coast.The first time Alvin and I saw him play was when we played a college gig with him. I thought he was a great showman and an innovative player. I first met Jimi at the Cromwellian club but did not hear him play
@@LeoLyonsMusician A fascinating insight, ive always been intrigued by that particular festival,the band was on fire,id love to get my hands on said album of that set,it should be out 😀
Another thing I'd like to ask about is bass amplification, its come a very long way since the late 60s early 70s,I always noticed you had a much better sound live than most at the time,may I ask what your set up was?,cheers,paul.
HI Paul.In the sixties and seventies I used two Marshall 100 watt amps and four 4 by 12 cabs and of course my Fender Jazz bass. I've owned many amps and basses. Currenty I use A Warwick 1100 watt amp with one 12 inch cab and one cab with 4 eight inch speakers. I also play through an Avalon DI unit. One important thing is to get the the tone first from the bass by how you finger the instrument. I was always a bit heavy handed and played the bass as if it was an upright.
This was the greatest line-up ever assembled for any rock festival anywhere. I’d just turned three in late August 1970, but had I been a few years older, I would’ve been there! Looking at the bill, there is not one single act I would’ve wanted to miss - including several bottom of the bill acts, like Supertramp, who went on to become megastars by the end of the decade. I know a lot of people who attended the festival and they all comment on the ‘bad vibes’ that were prevalent throughout the weekend - the anarchist invasion from Desolation Row, Rikki Farr bawling people out from the stage, Joni Mitchell’s set being interrupted, a pissed-off Hendrix. Not all of the acts got paid (I know Jethro Tull didn’t). But there seemed to be a creeping feeling that a ‘cultural chasm’ was opening up between the artists - who arrived at the festival by helicopter or by limousine and stayed in hotels or posh ‘private homes’ - and their great unwashed audience, who slept in tents or in the open. Nevertheless, had I gone I don’t think I’d have moved from the front of stage area for the whole weekend! A few people who met Hendrix toward the end of his life make similar comments to yours here - that he seemed depressed, frustrated and in a bit of a creative cul de sac. He had business problems, he was tied to a manager he wanted to be rid of but couldn’t escape and his personal life was chaotic. I think if he’d been at in a happier place personally, he might’ve pulled through whatever happened to him on 18th September. Maybe that’s just wishful thinking?
Hi Parsifal. I agree that there was a group in the crowd that were intent on anarchy but the vast majority of people were there to enjoy the music. Jimi and Joni had a tough time but I was pleased with the TYA set. I have no idea if we were paid but we had the same management team as Jethro Tull. I did not see a cultural chasm between the artistes and the audience only a small group of people who broke down the fences demanding that all art should be free.
One of the real bass players ever. but TYA started as jazz band ,didnt they ? they were in Danish TV here, that were very jazzy, me and my baby and so on. i were a fan imediately. legendary band, on of the very very best. totally laid down Woodstock :-)
What about the footage of the TYA at the Isle of Wight? I've found only a 5 min part of I Can't Keep From Crying Sometimes do you know if somebody as the rest of the tape somewhere? If yes did they ever asked you to see it and "approve it"? Or any ideas if they will ever release it officially if the rest of the footage is found?
Hi Jay. I saw some of the footage in 1971 and signed off on it. I've no idea what happened to it since but doubt someone has it and will do something eventually.
After watching some of your stories Leo I went back and played some of my vinyl TYA,Shh being my favorite, I remembered a little gem you called “Band with No Name” from Watt. And I always heard that you had a love with American westerns. And you always had that look about you with the great mustache you always had. I like the rifle shot at the end. Were that true about your liking westerns?
Hi Steve. Yes. I have a fascination with the American West. I also had horses and rode western style. In the village in the UK where I used to live they called me the cowboy.
Hi Leo. Being only 19 years old, I missed out on seeing Ten Years After by some years. I'm a BIG fan of the group!! Being a guitar player I've picked up almost every lick and solo phrase of Alvin Lee's. Anyway, I was wondering if you have any memories of a show on July 13th 1969 at the Singer Bowl where Ten Years After where on the bill with The Jeff Beck Group and members of Led Zeppelin turned up and there was a jam session at the end? Perhaps you could do a video on it?
Hi Led. I'm not sure if I can add much more than what Peter Coles has written about that gig but let me think about it and see if I can come up with something.
Hi Bill. Yes. The guitar is for sale via Alvin's estate. www.rockstarsguitars.com/products/ten-years-after/alvin-lee/alvin-lees-gibson-es-335/ Regards Leo
Hi Leo, I got anto a little conversation with another person here and mentioned your channel and he asked me to relay something to you, do you remember, Jimmy Bolton, also known as "Alvin’s Blue-Eyed Boy"? He used to roadie for TYA at least during the early 70's, he also roadied for Christian, Procol Harum and The Robin Trower band, he's lost contact with him and I guess they were good friends. I gave him the link to this video. He mentioned he had gotten a postcard from a gig in Osaka Japan, while he was with TYA sometime around May, 1973. Thanks again for your patience.
Hi Bob. Yes. Jimmy worked for us for in the early seventies. Sorry I have had no contact with him for maybe twenty years. The last I heard I believe he was working for a company that organised business conventions. .
@@LeoLyonsMusician I am that 'another person here ...' that Bob mentions. More than thanks, Leo., not least for giving me a lead to hopefully re-contacting with my Dear Friend, Jimmy Bolton. Maybe we shall all meet, one of these old afternoons. Thank you, always. Stay free. R 😎
@@LeoLyonsMusician thanks for noticing my comment. TYA was the 1st concert I ever attended. September 1972.. Edgar Winter Group was the opening act. The gig was at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island. I was a 13 year old kid learning drums. Ric Lee was and probably still is a terrific jazz drummer. That solo he does called Shantung Cabbage is great. Your solos on that Undead record are incredible! Anyway, that 1972 concert left an impression on me that is still present today.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks Leo. It is an honor to communicate directly with you. I enjoy music today as much as I ever have. I am a drummer, having played in local classic rock bands. One band I played in had I'd Love to Change the World in our set list! I loved it!
Mr Lyons, I could listen to you for hours. You present those stories in such an interesting way.
Hi Robert. Thanks. Glad you like them!
You are a legend Mr Lyons I was very young during Ten Years Later I love your music and the band I can listen to your stories for days thank you for the music.
Thanks for the kind words and for watching my videos. Regards Leo
Thank you for your service!! You did change the world. You did know what to do. TYA will always be remembered as one of the greatest bands of the 60s and 70s.
Thanks very much for the kind words. Regards Leo
Leo is such a gentleman, and such a great story teller. It's wonderful to know he misses performing live. In 1970, when I was nine, my older brother turned me on to side one of 'Undead' and my life hasn't been the same since. All four musicians perform amazingly well on that entire album. I still shake my head in disbelief at that performance at Klooks Kleek!
Thanks for the kind words.
I remember that in 1978 my brother, who is in heaven, was listening to a song that blew my mind and made me shudder at 12 years old, it was the one in presentation at Woodstock. I remember it and my throat tightens. A big hug and thanks for your beautiful music!
Hi Claudio. Thanks for the kind words nd for sharing your story. Take care. Regards Leo
What an absolute, old school, gent. Thank you for those memories. A natural storyteller. I remember my 13 year old brother getting Recorded Live for ‘73 Christmas, I recall. Although, as a 9 year old, it was advanced musically, I was hooked. My brother would not take me to TYA’s last gig at Newcastle City Hall in ‘74, something for which I have not forgiven him, I managed to see Alvin three times, the last being in 2004.His last tour of Britain. I have never seen Leo, Ric or Chick unfortunately. Thanks you Leo.
Hi Duncan. Thank you. I'm pleased to hear that you enjoyed it.
What a great human being. It's very pleasant to listen to him talk. I've loved TYA since I was about 14(40 years now!) and I'm always amazed by their truthful and faithfulness to their roots. Alt, there's so much to say about a bassist that has to "cover" when the only guitarist goes into a solo. Leo did that beautifully!
Thanks for the fantastic music 😎
Thanks for the kind words Eric.
My very first concert was TYA in 1971 at the International Amphitheater in Chicago. Probably in November. I was a freshman in HS. John Mayall opened the show. I'll never forget it! They did FOUR encores! Even after the house lights went on, they came back out and played another tune! It was unbelievable! At that point we were in the 10th row from the stage. Quite a memory! Thanks for the memories Leo!
Hi Tim. Thanks for the kind wordsand for sharing your memories. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Hi Leo, thanks so much for the reply! I had and still do have a cherry red Gibson ES 335 and at that time, I idolized Alvin Lee. I went on to play in bands and go to school for music. I received a Masters degree and achieved a Doctorate in music from the University of Illinois. More info than I'm sure you needed or wanted but it's just to say that every experience I had, including meeting B B King and many others, fueled my passion and interest in music. I'm sure growing up you had similar experiences so it's up to us all to pass on what we know and our love for the art of music. Thank you again! By the way, I heard TYA live a total of 4 times back then and they were always GREAT concerts. I think I could still play all of the cuts on the double live album! Sincerely, Tim Burns
@@timburns6137 Hi Tim. Thanks for your story. I believe music and all the arts are vital to counteract the negativity that's around in the world. Spread the joy. Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Just a thought Leo, but if you're ever in the Chicago or Midwest area, I would love to come out and hear you and maybe play a tune or two with you!Please let me know. In the meantime, I'm really enjoying your videos!
@@timburns6137 Hi Tim. Thanks for watching my channel. much appreciated. If I'm ever in Chicago I may catch one of your gigs. Regards Leo
Even ,though I kinda met You and Ric at a Sam Ash one Fri .nite on L.I. yrs ago-One of My biggest regrets was not seeing T.Y.A. live . We ,were huge lovin that Band & That ,huge fringed western jacket You were wearing ,is still pictured . Man great time . Thanks.so much...
Thanks for the kind words. I still have the fringed jacket. Stay safe.
@@LeoLyonsMusician You too Leo, Had a feelin You kept that one .You should have been in a major movie. Take Care.
@@dynasticlight1073 You too.
we got to keep music going strong words mr lyons and so true !!!
the music will be always here for ever and ever .
but what i hope from the bottom of my heart
is that great artist like you and menny others can go on the road again .
Very true.
I really hope they release Ten Years After’s set! Can’t wait
I hope so too Barry.
TYA is outstanding in the film, 'Message to love,' which is on DVD. 'I can't keep from crying sometimes'. so, there's that.
As a nine year old in 1970 life was so fantastic with all the great music that was around.
Ten years after were such a great band to listen to, people who listened to your music leo are probably the most loyal fans, it's still a big part of my life to this day.
Brilliant to listen to your memories leo as you've been there done that got the T shirt music wise, really enjoying your stuff leo, keep it going 👍
Thanks for watching.
Trank you vor this Great memories of this Festival….i was a part of the Crowd…..a Bavaria Veteran of de 1970s Festival
Mein Vergnügen, Albert. Danke fürs zuschauen. Ich erinnere mich an den Großteil des Festivals, als wäre es gestern gewesen.
I just discovered your UA-cam channel Leo! Wow....release the Isle of Wight Festival! My 2nd concert was 10 Year's After & ZZ Top @ the Capital Center in Landover Maryland in 1972! 🎶❄🌎❄🎶
Hi John. Thanks for watching. I hope you enjoy the channel.
What a brilliant man .............thank you for taking me back to wonderful memory’s
Glad you enjoyed it John. Stay safe.
You have been a major influence for me as a young bass player. I saw your performance at Woodstock at 13 (on VHS tape - I wasn't there unfortunately!) and my life changed. Thank you for the deep and constant inspiration.
Edoardo.
Hi Edoardo. Thanks for the kind words. It means a lot to me. Regards Leo
I will never forget the first time I heard the album 'Shhh' as a teenager, that album really stood out! TYA definitely had a unique sound. Glad I found your channel Leo, enjoying all your uploads.
Hi Modtrash. Thanks for the kind words and for watching the video.
Terrific video Mr. Lyons! Thank you for sharing your experience and an uplifting message in this time of negativity.
Thank you. My pleasure. We all need to keep positive.
Thanks for your post.
and Leo remembers everything, so many good stories. keep them coming :-) , we love it
Hi Tutank. Thank you! Will do!
Thank you, Leo, for these videos. I was a huge TYA fan from the time I first saw the Woodstock movie. I promptly went out and purchased Undead and still play that LP today occasionally. Also Watt, and your Recorded Live album. Saw you live in Chicago in 1974 and you were great! It was incredible how much energy you put into your playing, it made the band that much more exciting to watch. It's so good to hear the artist's version of those days, and what life was like on the road.
Hi John. Thanks for watching my videos and for the kind words. It's greatly appreciated. Regards Leo
It's all about the music!! Turn the news off and listening to your stories makes for a much sunnier day, thanks a ton for sharing.
Glad you like them! I think music is medicine for all that's damaging to the soul.
Wow - great story, great words! Thank you VERY, VERY much, Leo!
Hi Thomas. Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching.
I still listen to shhh several times a week
You'll wear the disc out John. Thanks for yournsupport.
It’s the 9th LP/ CD I have bought in my 67 years of life and your still in my mind one of the greatest rock/ blues bands to come out of the UK and I loved your piece on this channel regarding the Isle of Wight ...I went to see Dylan and I have been to several bath blues festival... I still think that period was a beautiful explosion of great British music and your piece of love like a man still makes the hair stand with good morning little school girl ....not a song that would go down to well today thanks to the likes of Paul gawd aka Gary glitter .......thank you for your amazing music
@@johnphillips2867 Hi John true comment about 'Schoolgirl.' It's still one of the most requested songs live. My band HSS still plays it. I should change the lyrics.
thank you Leo - I always enjoy your storys from the glory days! So cool!
My pleasure.
Excellent stories wonderful to hear and TYA sound fantastic on HI FI systems
Glad you enjoyed it!
Your stories are always incredible Leo, Rory Gallagher is my favorite guitarist and the idea of seeing Taste and Ten Years After at the same festival has always floored me. Sadly, Rory wrote a song with Taste that describes my life: “Born On The Wrong Side Of Time” since I’m too young to have ever seen him live.
Thanks for watching my videos and for the kind words. I was very lucky to have been around at a very pivotal time in music and saw and worked with many great players. Regards Leo
Leo you seem like such a down to earth guy. Would love to sit and listen to your stories. Love TYA.
Thanks Garry. I'll keep em coming.
It’s great to hear you talk about those days. I’ve listened to Ric Lee’s stories too.
Thanks for watching. Enjoy your music.
Dude-I should first say-good morning from Santa Cruz CA where I’m currently at our beach house having coffee-although I live in the Silicone Valley; so much fun to hear you reminisce-No one else can tell our personal stories. Thanks for doing that Leo! Really, really, enjoyed that time you spent here laying that all out for us not there. 5/5/21.
Thanks for watching Mark. Relaxing over a coffee at a beach house in Santa Cruz sounds like a good way to spend the day,
ABSOLUTELY. CLASSIC.LOVE.IT.TO.BITS..
Thank you Leo...GOLD!!! :-)
Thanks for listening Rob
I saw Ten Years After at a place called The Boston Tea Party in Boston, Massachusetts with The Stooges as opener in 1969. I was 16 year old and your band was the first professional band I'd ever seen and you blew the roof off the place, never forgot it, it was still to this day probably the best concert I've been to. I'm a long time bass player and had probably only been playing for a year or two when I saw you and you were one of my heroes when I was learning and I still bring up your name quite a bit when discussing top bass players, I still remember the bass solo you did that night, still remember all the Marshalls you guys had which was really something for me and the other two guys I played with at that time who were with me that night. It was a nice surprise to see that you have a UA-cam channel. Good Morning Little School Girl has always been probably my favorite TYA tune, I have probably all the TYA albums at home, I'm stuck in Peru right now can't get out because the airport's closed, haha! Anyways, rock on, we'll be back out there playing again sooner or later, hopefully sooner. Now that I know you have a new band I'll be checking out your CD's. The band Hundred Seventy Split sounds great by the way. Incidentally I used to play with a guitarist who played with Tiny Tim, I had never met him. I also belong to a US bass forum called Talkbass in which I just put in a link to this video. It's a great club if you're ever bored.
www.talkbass.com/threads/leo-lyons-bassist-for-ten-years-after.1481141/
Thanks for the kind words Bob. I have fond memories of playing the Tea Party and also visiting the radio station (was it WBCN? )
Thanks for the Talkbass link. I've subscribed. I wish you a safe journey back home when you're able to travel.
In the meantime. Enjoy Peru.
Regards
Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Yup, WBCN, it was one of the earliest "Underground" stations in the US and was constantly in my ear until sometime in the mid 80's. There is a documentary out on the station which is viewable online for a few bucks: theamericanrevolution.fm/ I told my Peruvian wife about our little interaction and she was very impressed even though she's more of a salsa woman. I showed her your solo at The Marquee Club and she said that you put your soul in your playing (this is a very big compliment coming from her as she can't tell the difference between a bass and a guitar, haha!), she also said that I play something like you which was also a huge compliment for me, I had heard that before while playing too. In that thread I posted I suggested that maybe you'd answer a few questions? Incidentally when you played at The Tea Party was WBCN's studio at the Tea Party? They broadcasted from there for a short while. Have you ever met Peter Wolf, lead singer for The J Geils Band? He was an overnight DJ at WBCN very early on, sometime during 1968. Sorry about the barrage of questions. Bob
Hi again Bob. Yes I met Peter Wolf. In fact I visited his house for dinner and also met his lovely wife.
Hi Leo. That will be the night I met you and dad as you stayed at my grandmother's house! Hope you're well. Great stories. Be well Sacha
Hi Sacha.Yes. That's correct. Greta times. Hope you're keeping well.
@@LeoLyonsMusician I remember teh Bentley! I learn more from these vids than the old man. So glad you're well and hope you can get back out on the road soon. Say hi to Joe!
@@alexchurchill8602 Thanks Alex. Will do.
Thank you so much for sharing these videos. The Isle of Wight was a fabled festival and your remembrances are so interesting as are the little insights of what was going on with you and the rest of the group in those times. I'd love to hear about what you remember from one of the UK tours or an American tour in those times. I really enjoy these videos you're putting up. Thanks again.
Hi doug. I'll see what I can come up with.
Rock on, Leo!
You Too Andy.
Thanks, Leo . Some great stuff ! 50 years ago !!! Wow ! We have seen many moons . Cheers to many more my friend 🙌🏽BASS ON... BASS BROTHER !
Thanks Anthony. Stay safe.
Thanks Anthony
Ssssh Is In My Heart,Thank You
Thank you Erik
Great Words from a Gentleman in the Music Business. TYA was my Favorite Band of all time. I'm 69 YO, posted on your March 2021 YT. TYA MUST BE INDUCTED INTO THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME !!!! Otherwise they will be known as the Rock and Roll Hall of Shame (have you seen some of the bands / personalities that have been inducted.....Give me a Break).
Yes.Some worthy additions and some people who really don't warrant including.
Thank you for sharing! What a wonderful insight... Yasmin
Glad you enjoyed it!
Love your stories :)
Glad you like them Pat.
Love you Leo. Always take care.✌
Hi Damien. Thanks for subscribing.
Happy birthday Sir.
Thanks Paul.
from russia with love,love,love!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for subscribing
Thank you Leo! Oh yes, music is the one thing keeping me "somewhat" sane. Hopefully we'll be getting live music again soon & look forward to hearing Hundred Seventy Split.
I hope so too!
@7:00 - interesting about the glider pilot's licence. I was also in the ATC (2423 Squadron in Treorchy, south Wales). I made 3 flights in Chipmunks and 2 in gliders - before the age of 15!
Must be a bass player thing!
Hi Paul.Interesting. My squadron was 983. QE Grammar School, Mansfield, Notts. I did just about everything possible. Flying ,shooting, swimming etc. I loved the opportunities. I got a glider pilots licence as early as I could, I think I was 16, but it's lapsed now because I didn't keep up the hours.
Such a pleasure to hear you talking about the events in your amazing musical career. What a time to have played through. Thank you for sharing🙏
Ps.have you written a book about your life story? It would be so intetesting✌️
Thanks for watching. Much appreciated. Re book: I started one about 40 years ago but still haven't finished it. I've been too busy enjoying life day by day but a book something I really should get finished. Regards Leo
Loved the TYA set at IoW. Big fan ever since. Do I recall correctly that you (Leo) had a race with Alvin Lee on stage where you would both play the same rifts alternately at each other at considerable speed ?
Hi John. Yes correct. Alvin and I aways had guitar-bass duels. That was TYA's style.
Nice to see someone from the great age of rock actually speak to us. Behind the scenes stories are always the best when directly from the actual band member as opposed to so called "experts" talking about it
One more time at 8:06 you mention you played "FARMEN" or FAIRMEN" Isles? What it the actual name of the place. Several of us could not make out the name of the place.
Thank you.
Hi Buzz. The island is Fehrman Isles, It's part of Germany on the Baltic. There was a very famous festival played there every year. Most of the big bands of the day played there including Hendrix .Regards Leo
Watt was my first TYA album! I'd love to hear the story of the cool endings the band did to some of the songs. (ie: I'm Coming On)
I'll listen to the song Cindy. I don't recall the ending.
Bless him
Thanks. You too.
Love ya Leo! Keep on keeping on bro!
Will do!
Remember Leo taking the time to chat with myself and a mate at the stage front back in 67 during his sound check at Oxford Town Hall. We were full of the recent all night Love In at the Ally Pally and Leo just sounded interested and engaged when he had plenty to do pre show. Decent bloke and the real (dark) star of TYA's Woodstock footage.
Hi Wheezer. Thanks for the kind words. I guess anyone would be interested to hear about The Ally Pally love-in.
@@LeoLyonsMusician You were interested Leo, you told us that you would have loved to play it - it shouldn't be underestimated how much influence simple kindness' and manners can have on young heads - certainly showed me how a few minutes of your time can go a long way. Thanks again.
@@TheWheezerPump Thank you.
We all read Biggles, Leo. 😂😂😂. Great memories.
Yes they were and the best is yet to come.
You are such an inspiration Leo. Your music was the sound of my childhood, a sound I still cherish today.
I do sometimes wonder though, what were your thoughts about being on the road for so long? I’ve heard that it could wear a person down.
I’ve also been dying to ask, do you have any tips for a beginner musician such as myself about show business? The thought scares me of being on a stage and yet the music continues urging me to take the step.
In answer to your questions. Yes being on the road does wear you down and you have to really love music to stand the test longterm. Success is good but not enough of a reward fo all the things you have to give up.
Ask yourself if you want to be a musician above all other things ie. security, a homelife etc. These are a few of the things that can suffer from your musical career. For me music is a drug.
Tips for the music business: There would be many but firstly believe in what you have to offer. You will find the business hard and you'll experience 99% rejection.
Good luck.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thank you so much for the advice, Leo! Only time will tell if my love for the art will withstand the pressures of performance. If anything, I can just perform at small events and open mic nights to get the satisfaction of performing without the added weight of being in the industry.
Thank you!
@@coolersloth2829 The main thing is to enjoy your music. Good luck.
Such a shame that TYA set for Isle Of Wight was never released Leo, do you know if they planned a film footage release as well as audio, or just Audio-only ? It should be YOUR'S (& Ric, Chick & Alvin's) property as much as any Film or music distributors property. Though ,rumor has it, the music business doesn't always work like that! Please let us know if there's any news on an Isle Of Wight release :)
Hi Mark. I don't know the politics on the IOW record release. I agreed to it being released in 2020 but it's not happened so far. It's down to film companies, various record labels, former band members and Alvin's estate to all agree. As for film product that' s something else. I don't know what the current status is. Regards Leo
🎸🎸
Thanks again for watching
Two questions. I couldn't make out the isle where a festival was to be played. It sounded like the "Firman Isles?" Secondly, what did you think of Hendrix? I've read that Alvin Lee, Clapton, Beck et al were all in attendance the first time Jimi played in London with Brian Auger at the Cromwellian Club, then later at Blazes, and everyone's jaw dropped once JImi started to play.
Hi Dapinelli. The Isle Of Wight is a small island off the UK coast.The first time Alvin and I saw him play was when we played a college gig with him. I thought he was a great showman and an innovative player. I first met Jimi at the Cromwellian club but did not hear him play
Thank you very much indeed 😁
You’re welcome 😊
@@LeoLyonsMusician A fascinating insight, ive always been intrigued by that particular festival,the band was on fire,id love to get my hands on said album of that set,it should be out 😀
Another thing I'd like to ask about is bass amplification, its come a very long way since the late 60s early 70s,I always noticed you had a much better sound live than most at the time,may I ask what your set up was?,cheers,paul.
HI Paul.In the sixties and seventies I used two Marshall 100 watt amps and four 4 by 12 cabs and of course my Fender Jazz bass. I've owned many amps and basses. Currenty I use A Warwick 1100 watt amp with one 12 inch cab and one cab with 4 eight inch speakers. I also play through an Avalon DI unit. One important thing is to get the the tone first from the bass by how you finger the instrument. I was always a bit heavy handed and played the bass as if it was an upright.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thankyou very much 🙂
This was the greatest line-up ever assembled for any rock festival anywhere. I’d just turned three in late August 1970, but had I been a few years older, I would’ve been there! Looking at the bill, there is not one single act I would’ve wanted to miss - including several bottom of the bill acts, like Supertramp, who went on to become megastars by the end of the decade.
I know a lot of people who attended the festival and they all comment on the ‘bad vibes’ that were prevalent throughout the weekend - the anarchist invasion from Desolation Row, Rikki Farr bawling people out from the stage, Joni Mitchell’s set being interrupted, a pissed-off Hendrix. Not all of the acts got paid (I know Jethro Tull didn’t). But there seemed to be a creeping feeling that a ‘cultural chasm’ was opening up between the artists - who arrived at the festival by helicopter or by limousine and stayed in hotels or posh ‘private homes’ - and their great unwashed audience, who slept in tents or in the open. Nevertheless, had I gone I don’t think I’d have moved from the front of stage area for the whole weekend!
A few people who met Hendrix toward the end of his life make similar comments to yours here - that he seemed depressed, frustrated and in a bit of a creative cul de sac. He had business problems, he was tied to a manager he wanted to be rid of but couldn’t escape and his personal life was chaotic. I think if he’d been at in a happier place personally, he might’ve pulled through whatever happened to him on 18th September. Maybe that’s just wishful thinking?
Hi Parsifal. I agree that there was a group in the crowd that were intent on anarchy but the vast majority of people were there to enjoy the music. Jimi and Joni had a tough time but I was pleased with the TYA set. I have no idea if we were paid but we had the same management team as Jethro Tull. I did not see a cultural chasm between the artistes and the audience only a small group of people who broke down the fences demanding that all art should be free.
One of the real bass players ever. but TYA started as jazz band ,didnt they ? they were in Danish TV here, that were very jazzy, me and my baby and so on. i were a fan imediately. legendary band, on of the very very best. totally laid down Woodstock :-)
Thanks for the kind words.
Can I presume that the tour “enhancements” we’re responsible for you all getting through that year? Episodes in ‘Better living thru chemistry’.
You'll have to use your imagination for that answer.
@@LeoLyonsMusician 😉
Leo where have you been?
Hi Paul. I needed to take a break but I'll be back after the holidays. All the best for 2022
@@LeoLyonsMusician great news!!!
@@Pepco54 I'll come up with something interesting.
What about the footage of the TYA at the Isle of Wight? I've found only a 5 min part of I Can't Keep From Crying Sometimes do you know if somebody as the rest of the tape somewhere? If yes did they ever asked you to see it and "approve it"? Or any ideas if they will ever release it officially if the rest of the footage is found?
Hi Jay. I saw some of the footage in 1971 and signed off on it. I've no idea what happened to it since but doubt someone has it and will do something eventually.
@@LeoLyonsMusician ok thanks for the reply, really hope one day someone will do something with it
Request Love like a Man bass tabs 🎸🎸
I'll give it some thought,
After watching some of your stories Leo I went back and played some of my vinyl TYA,Shh being my favorite, I remembered a little gem you called “Band with No Name” from Watt. And I always heard that you had a love with American westerns. And you always had that look about you with the great mustache you always had. I like the rifle shot at the end. Were that true about your liking westerns?
Hi Steve. Yes. I have a fascination with the American West. I also had horses and rode western style. In the village in the UK where I used to live they called me the cowboy.
Do you remember sir how band with no name was conceived? Because it sounds like it could have been in a Clint Eastwood western.
@@stevehamby9842 Yes Steve, It was influenced by the Clint Eastwood movie that was popular at the time.
Hi Leo. Being only 19 years old, I missed out on seeing Ten Years After by some years. I'm a BIG fan of the group!! Being a guitar player I've picked up almost every lick and solo phrase of Alvin Lee's. Anyway, I was wondering if you have any memories of a show on July 13th 1969 at the Singer Bowl where Ten Years After where on the bill with The Jeff Beck Group and members of Led Zeppelin turned up and there was a jam session at the end? Perhaps you could do a video on it?
Hi Led. I'm not sure if I can add much more than what Peter Coles has written about that gig but let me think about it and see if I can come up with something.
Leo, Ten Years After was a great band. Do you know what's become of Alvin's ES-335? Thanks for all the behing the scenes stories.
Hi Bill. Yes. The guitar is for sale via Alvin's estate. www.rockstarsguitars.com/products/ten-years-after/alvin-lee/alvin-lees-gibson-es-335/ Regards Leo
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thank you for your response.
Hi Leo, I got anto a little conversation with another person here and mentioned your channel and he asked me to relay something to you, do you remember, Jimmy Bolton, also known as "Alvin’s Blue-Eyed Boy"? He used to roadie for TYA at least during the early 70's, he also roadied for Christian, Procol Harum and The Robin Trower band, he's lost contact with him and I guess they were good friends. I gave him the link to this video. He mentioned he had gotten a postcard from a gig in Osaka Japan, while he was with TYA sometime around May, 1973. Thanks again for your patience.
Hi Bob. Yes. Jimmy worked for us for in the early seventies. Sorry I have had no contact with him for maybe twenty years. The last I heard I believe he was working for a company that organised business conventions. .
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks Leo, I just relayed your response to him.
@@LeoLyonsMusician I am that 'another person here ...' that Bob mentions. More than thanks, Leo., not least for giving me a lead to hopefully re-contacting with my Dear Friend, Jimmy Bolton.
Maybe we shall all meet, one of these old afternoons.
Thank you, always. Stay free. R 😎
PS. Jimmy's Osaka postcard read: ' Rab. *Wish you were her* Jimmy.'
@@RHR-221b My pleasure RF. Hope to manage to contact Jimmy
Sweet little 16 on Watt is from that show
Yes Mark. That's correct
@@LeoLyonsMusician thanks for noticing my comment. TYA was the 1st concert I ever attended. September 1972.. Edgar Winter Group was the opening act. The gig was at Nassau Coliseum on Long Island. I was a 13 year old kid learning drums. Ric Lee was and probably still is a terrific jazz drummer. That solo he does called Shantung Cabbage is great. Your solos on that Undead record are incredible! Anyway, that 1972 concert left an impression on me that is still present today.
@@markravitz1684 Thanks for the kind words Mark. Great times. Hope you're still enjoying your music.
@@LeoLyonsMusician Thanks Leo. It is an honor to communicate directly with you. I enjoy music today as much as I ever have. I am a drummer, having played in local classic rock bands. One band I played in had I'd Love to Change the World in our set list! I loved it!
@@markravitz1684 Good to hear you're still playing. music is good for the soul.
There is a book here sir Leo
Yes there is. Ive been writing it for years. I just need the determination to finish it.
poor joni .
Yes.It was awful for her but she was brave.