Musician

I think everyone goes through phases in their lives, in my case I’ve had many. On this page I’m just reflecting back on a live music career which began in the early nineties and has just begun slowing down now really. In those 15 years I’ve been lucky to have worked with some of the most talented people in my circle,and beyond.

I began as a solo folk singer but later went out on the road singing blues with Gypsy Blue. When Gypsy Blue went their separate ways I teamed up with the only guy who ever got near to being a brother to me; Bri Fitzpatrick. As Fitzy and Dixy played we 1000 gigs all over the East Midlands from 1998 to 2005.

Later my daughter Benita came out with me and we performed as Raffertys Bandwagon in pubs and clubs around Lincoln.

Finally coming full circle I ended up solo again.

While living in India I had a  residency playing at the beautiful Taj Exotica Hotel in Benaulim, Goa, every Saturday night and occasional Tuesdays from 2007 to2009.

My ‘office’ was a small stage entertaining diners from all over the world at Taj’s Lobster Shack restaurant which was located literally on the shores of the Arabian Sea. The  biggest problem I had initially was coping with crickets which kept jumping inside my mouth as I was singing. What I discovered over time was that they were attracted to the white shirts I wore during performance. Needless to say I went shopping.

Now back in the UK I doubt if I will ever take up regular performing again although I have been invited to do the occasional private gig. If it supports my charity I wouldn’t refuse but otherwise I’m just happy to have the memories