For several years, jazz trombone master Chris Barber has been often asked by fans the question when are you going to give up?' Since he had no intention of doing so, you can imagine his reply.
Then out of the blue an old friend and very successful songwriter, Graham Lyle, (Dead and Gone, Simply the Best and What's Love Got To Do With it?) came to hear the Big Chris Barber Band for the first time. He was so moved by the enthusiasm, style and sheer musical quality of Chris and all the band members that he vowed to write a song for Chris and the band which would tell their story I Can't Stop Now is now recorded and is the title track of Chris and the band's latest album - and it's one of those tunes which you can't forget.
You can catch Chris and co at Epsom Playhouse tonight (Thursday), where no doubt they will be playing - and deomonstrating - I Can't Stop Now.
Inspired by the King Oliver Creole Jazz Band, Chris formed his first Barber New Orleans Band in 1949 at the age of nineteen, before joining forces with Monty Sunshine, Lonnie Donegan and Ken Colyer. He has been one of the most successful trad jazz band leaders ever since.
Chris Barber; Epsom Playhouse, Ashley Avenue, KT18 5AL; Thursday, February 8, 8pm, £18.50/£16.50, call 01372 742 555 or visit epsomplayhouse.co.uk for details and booking.
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