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In 2012 I was contacted by a sax playing friend of mine whose music I had

been playing on my radio show. “I am playing with Duane Eddy at The Sage,

would you like a guest list?” You can guess the answer.

Come the night of the gig, I cut my show short by an hour and raced up the

A1 to the Sage. I knew I had missed the opening act, and hoped I hadn’t missed
Duane. As I collected my ticket from the box office and

opened the envelope, I was delighted & surprised to see

that I also had a backstage pass – bonus!

Needless to say, the gig was glorious. Backed by Richard

Hawley’s band (Richard had produced Duane’s most

recent album, “Road Trip”, with my friend Paul on sax
(and guitar) all of the hits - and more - were played

and received with love and enthusiasm.

At the end of the gig I got to the stage & picked up

a setlist, then looked to flex my backstage pass,

which was very painless!

I hooked up with my friend Paul, then there, in
the room, was Duane! I have to say I had a bit

of a fanboy moment! Duane when he

wore a younger
I was introduced, and told Duane that he
man’s clothes.
was the reason I started playing guitar

(true). He said, in his deep drawl, “Don’t

blame that shit on me, son!” We all laughed. I
asked Duane if he could record a piece for my

radio show, which he quickly agreed to. It took a

little time, and we had a few laughs while he tried to

get it right, but I have that jingle from Duane of which I am very

proud. He also signed the setlist to me too, another treasured item.

Through all of this meeting, brief as it was, Duane was a true gentleman and
seemed interested in me and what I had to say.

The drive home was illuminated by my beaming smile which I am sure was

brighter than any car headlights. Thanks Duane.

Gary Grainger