Publication: Disc and Music Echo
Date: April 23, 1966
Pages: 25
Content type: Front cover
Headlines/Articles:
- Free! All-Star Record — page 2: Teaser for the "Sound of the Stars" free LP promotion inside
- Mick Jagger's Secret Life: Cover teaser for a feature article on the Rolling Stones frontman
- Beatle Besieged: Cover teaser, presumably a story about a Beatle mobbed by fans
- Cilla on Marriage: Cover teaser for an article with Cilla Black discussing marriage
- Scott 'Why I'm a worried man': Cover teaser pointing to page 11, with a feature on Scott Walker
Advertisements:
- None
Photos/Images:
- Large close-up photo (main cover image): A young man peering over a pair of sunglasses — identified by the cover teaser as Scott Walker
- Smaller inset photo (top right): Cilla Black, seated, smiling, wearing a white sleeveless dress
Notes:
- Publication: Disc and Music Echo, April 23, 1966. Price: 9d (UK), 25c (USA)
- This is the first issue following the merger of Disc Weekly and Music Echo
Content type: Promotional feature / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- Sound of the Stars starts here! — A FREE LP FOR EVERY READER!: Full-page promotion explaining how readers can claim a free copy of the exclusive "Sound of the Stars" LP by collecting three tokens across three consecutive weekly issues (Week One token included on this page). Broadcast promoted by Tom Lodge on Radio Caroline (North and South). Available only to readers in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
Advertisements:
- Congratulatory ad (lower half of page): "Here's wishing Disc and Music Echo every success" — an unsigned congratulatory message marking the magazine's launch/merger
Photos/Images:
- Grid of nine artist portrait photos (top right): Paul (McCartney), Cilla (Black), Cliff (Richard), Hank (Marvin), John (Lennon), Dusty (Springfield), Sandie (Shaw), Pete (unidentified), Spencer (Davis)
Notes:
- Artists featured on the "Sound of the Stars" LP listed at the bottom of the page: The Beatles, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Cilla Black, Billy J. Kramer, The Dakotas, Paddy Klaus and Gibson, The Moody Blues, The Silkie, Sounds Incorporated, The Fourmost, Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, The Paramounts, Tony Rivers and the Castaways, The Remo Four and Brian Epstein
- The "Week One" token (cut-out disc shape) is printed on this page
Content type: Charts
Headlines/Articles:
- Top 50: Full UK singles chart. Top 10:
1. (4) You Don't Have To Say You Love Me — Dusty Springfield, Philips
2. (1) Somebody Help Me — Spencer Davis, Fontana
3. (10) Abang Bang — Cher, Liberty
4. (8) Substitute — Who, Reaction
5. (3) Hold Tight — Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich, Fontana
6. (2) The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Any More — Walker Brothers, Philips
7. (7) Sound of Silence — Bachelors, Decca
8. (9) Alfie — Cilla Black, Parlophone
9. (18) A Daydream — Lovin' Spoonful, Pye Int.
10. (11) Elusive Butterfly — Val Doonican, Decca
- Hit Talk by John Maus: Column by John Maus (of the Walker Brothers) giving opinions on current records; mentions Spencer Davis Group, Bob Lind, Kinks, Val Doonican, Eddy Arnold, Dusty Springfield, Cilla Black, Beach Boys, Yardbirds
- Top Ten LPs: Includes Aftermath (Rolling Stones), The Sound of Music (Soundtrack), Rubber Soul (Beatles), Take It Easy with the Walker Brothers, Second Album (Spencer Davis), Bye Bye Blues (Bert Kaempfert), Going Places (Herb Alpert), Mary Poppins (Soundtrack), Beach Boys Party, Otis Blue (Otis Redding)
- American Top Twenty: US chart headed by "Soul and Inspiration" (Righteous Bros.), also features "Bang Bang" (Cher), "Secret Agent Man" (Johnny Rivers), "Daydream" (Lovin' Spoonful), "Good Lovin'" (Young Rascals)
- Chart Topper: Small feature with photo, spotlighting the week's #1 (Dusty Springfield)
- New Singles: Sounds Orchestral ("From Nashville With Love"), Lennie Peters ("Stranger in Paradise"), Bobby Coleman ("(Baby) You Don't Have To Tell Me"), Angela and the Fans ("Love Ya Illya")
Advertisements:
- A Taste of Tijuana — The Mexicans (Decca, SKL 4757 / LK 4757): Half-banner ad for a brass LP, "A Fabulous Brass Sound" containing "Spanish Flea", "Tijuana Taxi" and other tracks
Photos/Images:
- James Brown: Ad photo for "Ain't That A Groove" (Pye Int., 7N 25367)
- Keely Smith: Ad photo for "Goodbye My Love (Il Silenzio)" (RCA Reprise, R 20432)
- The Rockin' Berries: Ad photo for "I Could Make You Fall In Love" (Piccadilly, 7N 35304)
Notes:
- Silver Disc (250,000 British sales) awarded entries marked with a bullet; "Top 50 zoomers" (highest climbers) marked with a triangle
- Chart positions in brackets indicate previous week's position; "—" indicates new entry
Content type: News / Gig listings / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Stars in the News–1 — "Spencer for Europe!": Spencer Davis Group may top the bill at Paris Olympia for two weeks in September; concert date in Switzerland on July 9; new single "Somebody Help Me" out June 3.
- Wayne tour, TV: Wayne Fontana undertakes a short Scottish tour (June 1–6) in response to a 3,000-fan petition; appearance on "Five O'Clock Club" (Friday) and "Ready Steady Go" (May 6).
- Cabaret: Spencer Davis Group announces first-ever cabaret dates starting at the Fiesta Club, Stockton and Club Franchise, Jarrow on August 21, then touring Ireland June 1–5.
- Count Down: A day-by-day live gig listings grid (Thursday through Monday) covering artists including Yardbirds, Small Faces, Dave Dee Dozy Beaky Mick and Tich, Spencer Davis/Who, Dixie Cups, Walker Brothers/Orbison/Lulu, Manfred Mann, Alan Price Set, Wayne Fontana/Crispian St. Peters, Action, Sandie Shaw, Easy Beat, Moody Blues, Whole Scene Going, and others.
- Walkers' US trip: Walker Brothers to make a lightning visit to America in May for the "Ed Sullivan Show"; doubtful they'll stay longer than three days; appearing on Prince of Wales TV June 5; next week recording tracks for new LP; charity walk in aid of Oxfam from Albert Memorial to Windsor Park on April 24.
- Herman: US tour: Herman (Herman's Hermits) opens a three-week US tour at Honolulu July 1; plays Los Angeles and San Francisco; then Manila (May 6, week's concerts) then Germany from May 23.
Advertisements:
- Chess Records new LP: The Ramsey Lewis Trio – "Hang On Ramsey!" (CRL 4520); also advertising "The In Crowd" (CRL 4511) and "The Ramsey Lewis Trio At The Bohemian Caverns" (NJL 55).
- Chess Records new EPs: Chuck Berry – "You Came A Long Way From St. Louis" (CRE 6017); Howlin' Wolf – "The Real Folk Blues, Vol. 1" (CRE 6017); Sonny Boy Williamson – "The Real Folk Blues, Vol. 2" (CRE 6018).
- Pye new EP: The Alexander Brothers – "The Dark Island" (NEP 24249).
- Dot Records: Pat Boone – "Make the World Go Away" (DEP 20012).
- Edward Kassner Music Co. Ltd.: "Bang Bang!" by Cher (currently No. 3); "I Go To Sleep" by The Truth (tipped as next chart smash). Address: Kassner House, 25 Denmark Street, W.C.2. (COV 3026).
Photos/Images:
- Photo of the Walker Brothers at the London H.Q. of Philips Records, being presented a Silver Disc for "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Any More."
Notes:
- Page is very dense with the "Count Down" gig guide taking up the central section; listings span Thursday through at least Monday, covering multiple UK venues.
Content type: News (Stars in the News–2)
Headlines/Articles:
- Beatles' tour dates — "They Play to 32,000 in Germany, 36,000 in Japan": The Beatles will make six special concert appearances in Germany and three in Tokyo in June; Munich Circus Croner (capacity 3,000); Essen Grugahalle (7,500) on June 25; Hamburg Ernst Merck Halle (5,000) on June 26; Tokyo shows at the Budō Kan (capacity 12,000) on June 30, July 1 and July 2.
- DJ Tony Climbs the Mast – and It's Caroline on 259!: Radio Caroline DJ Tony Blackburn shinned up the 163-foot mast of pirate ship "Mi Amigo" to mend a short circuit; Caroline now broadcasting on 259 metres.
- Roy's back on wheels: Roy Orbison, after a motorcycle mishap that fractured his left foot a month ago, is back on his feet; he was filmed for a sequence in "Whole Scene Going."
- WHO–ha! Spencer tour a hit: Incident at a Spencer Davis WHO support gig — a girl fell into the orchestra pit; equipment damage; fan trouble at Southampton and Watford dates; London fans can see The Who at Oxford Street's Tiles Club (April 29); second Tiles appearance booked for July 15.
- Mindbenders' new single decided: Follow-up to "Groovy Kind of Love" will be "Can't Live Without You" by Toni Wine; appears on "Thank Your Lucky Stars" (April 30), "Now" (May 6), "Saturday Club" (7), "Five O'Clock Club" (10); Mindbenders go to Malta with Freddie and the Dreamers May 8, then Helsinki for two days from May 30.
- Lou back to US: Lou Christie finishing three-week British tour, flies back to US the following day; may return to Britain in September for a tour or TV.
- New Bachelors single, LP: Bachelors spend 10 days between seasons at the Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool (April 30) and two-week America tour (May 10); recording new single and tracks for next album, due out end of May; dates include Dudley Hippodrome (May 1) and Leicester De Montfort Hall (May 8).
- Chris in crash: Chris Farlowe and his fiancée Samantha Whyton had a lucky escape when their car skidded and overturned on the M1; both sustained minor cuts.
- Operation over for Tom – but he may be back!: Tom Jones discharged from the London Clinic on Monday (three days after his tonsils were removed); throat still sore, may need further operation; fan mail flowing in including letter from oldest fan, a woman of 74; Tom takes off for Belgium appearances in May.
- TV spot for Dave: Dave Berry will do his own hour-long TV spectacular in Belgium in June; Tom Jones appearing as his guest; Dave does three concerts in Belgium from May 22.
- Animals on 'Whole Scene': Animals appear on "Whole Scene Going" May 25; other bookings include Buffy Sainte Marie and John Lee Hooker (May 4), Dusty Springfield and Patty La Belle, Paul and Barry Ryan, Koobas, and Stevie Wonder.
- Goldie flies home to rejoin group: Goldie (American girl singer, formerly of The Gingerbread) returning to the US after a year solo; new single "I Do" released; has decided to rejoin the Gingerbread; other girls already returned to America three weeks ago.
- Eddy Arnold wins Silver Disc: "Make the World Go Away" exceeds quarter million sales; Silver Disc presented by Disc and Music Echo.
- That's nice, Billie!: Neil Christian celebrated the success of "That's Nice" by buying a fur jacket; anecdote about meeting model friend Lynsey Gay while shopping.
- Yardbird Jeff is back!: Jeff Beck, out of action for two months with meningitis, made a rapid return to the group at the weekend; doctors said his illness was not serious; next single (with Keith Relf solo on Bob Lind's "Mr Zero") due out May 20 after return from Amsterdam promotional trip (May 7–9); Yardbirds spend a week in Scandinavia from June 8.
- Doonican's Irish tour: Val Doonican completes a week at the Belfast Globe Theatre this Saturday; after Glasgow Pavilion next week returns to Ireland for a week's tour from May 2.
Advertisements:
- The Bachelors "Good Luck" full-page advertisement wishing Disc and Music Echo success; with group photo.
Photos/Images:
- Photo captioned "Tom Jones in hospital last week" — Jones pictured in hospital bed.
Notes:
- Page carries a very full mix of short news items across many artists.
- The Bachelors ad is prominent in the lower right, taking up roughly a quarter of the page.
Content type: News (Stars in the News–3) / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Pop Shock… Seekers to tour Rhodesia!: The Seekers are planning the most controversial tour of their career — visiting South Africa, Kenya and Rhodesia in the autumn; first British pop group to visit Rhodesia since Ian Smith's UDI in November; spending six weeks touring three countries, flying out to South Africa on September 25; cabaret dates at Tugamago Club, Majorca (July 14–23).
- All-star names for Dusty TV: Dusty Springfield tops the chart for the first time in her solo career; BBC TV six-part series to be broadcast in Sweden from April 27; guests include Ramsey Lewis Trio, George Shearing Quintet, Four Freshmen, and others.
- Spoonful film on 'Top Pops': Lovin' Spoonful will not make live appearances on "Top of the Pops" during their British visit; instead group will film appearances on April 28 for the programme; reason is the Musicians' Union clause limiting TV appearances.
- Dave Dee 'Question': Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick and Tich guest on "Pop The Question" on April 26.
- 'Countdown' May Replace 'Stars': When "Thank Your Lucky Stars" comes off air in the autumn, Southern TV's "Countdown" may replace it nationally; programme is a mixture of quiz and pop produced by Mike Mansfield; pilot went out April 2; two more pilots planned for May 6 and 13; six half-hour pop shows being put out by Southern in autumn; Unit Four Plus Two will star in all six, with guest artists.
- Cilla – holiday: Cilla Black is taking a month's rest after her three-week stint at the Savoy Hotel before going into her summer season with the Bachelors at Blackpool's ABC Theatre from May 11; next date in Blackpool then cabaret at Araneta Coliseum, Manila on October 15.
- Cilla conquers the sedate Savoy!: A review of Cilla Black's cabaret run at the Savoy; she won over the formal audience singing songs like Paddy Roberts' "Follow Me", "What's A Nice Guy Like You Doing In A Place Like This?" and an enchanting ditty; described as "a knockout."
- Faces Hurt: Small Faces (Kenny Jones, Ronnie Lane, Steve Marriott) involved in a stormed/backstage incident after appearance at Streatham Ice Rink on Monday; Steve had bandage round head and the group's appointments for Tuesday and Wednesday were cancelled.
- Bonney Band: Graham Bonney forming the Graham Bonney Band, a five-piece outfit; plans to augment; "the kids are fed up with two or three guitar backing groups"; the group makes first TV appearance from next Tuesday (April 26).
- Hollies hang on in States: Hollies visit to America — due to finish April 26 — extended until May 4; will do five days special cabaret at Los Angeles' famous Trip Club where the Byrds are resident; returning to record tracks for new single in early June and new LP for July release; from May 21–25 they do TV concerts and cabaret in Copenhagen, first visit there.
- Birthday Alan!: Alan Price — whose "I Put A Spell On You" rose to 12 in the Top 50 this week — celebrated his 24th birthday; buried under presents and cards from fans; one girl in Wisconsin sent him a solid gold signet ring engraved with his initials; The Alan Price Set's first album will be available in three or four weeks; contains four numbers specially written by Alan and three stage numbers: "We're Gonna Make It," "Fugitive Kind" and "Baby Work Out"; set will go on TWW's "Now" show on May 18 instead of May 11.
- Freddie was there!: Freddie and the Dreamers at the birthday party of brother and sister Christopher and Vicki Green at their home in Middlesbrough last week.
- Bo Street Runners: new record on April 29 is The Beatles' "Drive My Car"; doing a 12-week season at Britannia Theatre, Great Yarmouth from June 19.
- Johnny Kidd and the Pirates split up this week — after ten years together; played their last date at Wilton Hall, Bletchley.
Advertisements:
- Harry Fenton (Madras Check): ad for a "primitively coloured Madras Cotton Waister"; 6 gns.; 62 Shaftesbury Ave., London W.1.
- The Fortunes / Pinkerton's (Assorted) Colours: large ad from Terry King and Reg Calvert wishing Disc and Music Echo "a Successful Amalgamation"; slogans "rave pee, floozy, squeeky, sick & itch (to mention but a few) say all the best."
Photos/Images:
- Photo of Judy Durham (lead singer of The Seekers), captioned with her name.
- Photo of Freddie and the Dreamers at the birthday party of Christopher and Vicki Green in Middlesbrough.
Notes:
- The Johnny Kidd and the Pirates split announcement is a significant music news item buried as a brief item at the bottom of the page.
- The Fortunes/Pinkerton's ad is a congratulatory note marking the recent merger of Disc Weekly and Music Echo into Disc and Music Echo.
Content type: Editorial / Launch statement / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "HELLO!": Editor Ray Coleman's launch editorial welcoming readers to the first issue of Disc and Music Echo, explaining the new combined publication's aims — colour pictures, news, features, a Top 50 chart, and coverage of pop's connection with films and fashion. Signed off by Ray Coleman, Editor.
- Key promises listed: More News, Better Pictures, More Features, Top 50 Chart.
- "Record" section: Mentions a free star-studded LP record ("Sound of the Stars") available to readers — directs readers to page 2.
Advertisements:
- Philips Records: "4 new hit LPs from Philips" — featuring The 4 Seasons "Working My Way Back To You" (BL 7699), Harry Secombe "Italian Serenade" (stereo S BL 7704 / mono BL 7704), The Morgan James Duo "Shhhh… Talent Strikes Again" (stereo S BL 7702 / mono BL 7702), John Hanson "In When You're Young" (stereo S BL 7701 / mono BL 7701).
Photos/Images:
- Head shots of The Beatles (John, Paul, George and Ringo) alongside the headline "Beatles and Cilla say 'Good luck'".
- Reproduction of a GPO Greetings Telegram sent by the Beatles (signed "John Paul George Ringo Ringo Ringo") to Ray Coleman at 161/166 Fleet Street EC4, wishing success to Disc and Music Echo.
- A handwritten note from Cilla Black (dated 18/4/66, written from the Savoy Hotel, London) reading: "Many congratulations & lots of success to the new Disc & Music Echo. May you have many more of them! Rather the posh paper! Cilla xx + kiss."
- Album cover images for each of the four Philips LPs.
Notes:
- This is the introductory/welcome page of the very first issue of Disc and Music Echo (formed by the merger of Disc Weekly and Music Echo).
- The masthead confirms the full title: "Disc and Music Echo — April 23rd, 1966".
Content type: Fashion feature
Headlines/Articles:
- "Who's Wearing What": Fashion spread featuring pop stars Lulu and Gary, annotating the clothing and accessories they are wearing, with prices and retailers.
Advertisements:
- Lewis Leathers: "An Exciting Range of Super Quality Luxury Leather Wear" — catalogue features three styles: Continental (Cat. No. 94, £19.19.0), Regal (Cat. No. 977, £13.19.6), Elite (Cat. No. 976, £6.19.6). Mail order from DEPT. MEC/17, 124 Gt. Portland St., W1. Callers welcome at Birmingham, Sheffield stores.
Photos/Images:
- Large photograph of Lulu seated on a stool, annotated with her outfit details: Hoop ear-rings (blue plastic, 12s 6d, Dickens and Jones, Regent Street); Shirt (Paris buy, pink crepon, ÂŁ4); Skirt (pink, blue and grey, Maxine Leighton Boutique, Hampstead, ÂŁ14); Boots (pink Paris boots from Renest, ÂŁ10).
- Two smaller inset photos of Lulu showing a "then and now" comparison of her hair — "before" (longer) and "after" (chopped-off new look cut at Salon Des Freres, Dover Street, London). She has also bought a false piece from Fenwicks, Bond Street, for £15.
- Photograph of Gary (identified as "GARY" in large type along the right margin — likely Gary Leeds of the Walker Brothers) annotated with: Shirt (size 14, from Carnaby Street, £4 10s); Jacket (single-breasted tweed sports jacket with breast pocket, from Hollywood, California USA, $50); Watch (deep sea diver's watch given by fans for his birthday); Cigarettes (Peter Stuyvesant, 5s 5d for 20); Shoes (suede shoes with elastic inserts from Anello and Davide, Charing Cross Road, London, 4 gns). His hair: "used to go to Vidal Sassoon in London's Bond Street — 30s for cut and shampoo. Now does it himself at home."
Notes:
- Classic mid-1960s fashion feature typical of pop weeklies, reflecting Swinging London boutique culture (Carnaby Street, Vidal Sassoon, Maxine Leighton Boutique).
- The "Gary" featured is not explicitly identified by surname in the visible text, but context strongly suggests Gary Leeds (Walker Brothers).
Content type: News feature / Opinion column / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "Beatle Besieged! — Day trippers invade the house that John built / 'I'm fed up with it all!'": Feature on John Lennon's frustration with fans invading the grounds of his Weybridge house at weekends. John is quoted: "I'm fed up with it — some weekends it gets so bad we go away somewhere to get away from the Beatle lives." He describes fans camping and having picnics in the grounds, calling it "unbelievable to have the house treated as some kind of park." Sub-sections: "Drawbacks", "People gawp", "Picnics", "'Cheek'".
- "Jonathan King column — Why is Elvis the dead King of pop?": Jonathan King argues that while Elvis has undeniable star quality, his career has stagnated. His records are re-issued tracks or movie soundtracks; his films are panned by critics. King concludes Elvis is "virtually dead" to everyone but his loyal 30-year-old fans. He then pivots to predicting a bright future for the Walker Brothers over the next nine months, preferring them over the Rolling Stones battle.
Advertisements:
- John Grey Headmaster Plastic Drum Heads: "All round better sound and response" — sizes from 14in Snare/Tom-Tom (30/-) up to 22in Bass Drum (63/-). Also introducing new "Worldbeater" double-headed drum beater. Available from all good music stores. Manufactured by John Grey & Sons (London) Ltd.
- The Koobas: "You'd Better Make Up Your Mind" (Pye 7N 17087) — promotional ad with individual portraits of the four band members (Stu, Keith, Roy, Tony) and upcoming TV/radio appearances listed: Five O'Clock Club (May 3), TWW Now (May 11), Thank Your Lucky Stars (May 14), Whole Scene Going (May 18). Also on Radios London, Caroline, Scotland and Luxembourg. Sole Agency: Arthur Howes Ltd., 29/31 Regent St., SW1. Personal Manager: Tony Stratton Smith, 23 Denmark St., WC2.
Photos/Images:
- Large close-up photograph of John Lennon (slightly soft-focus, occupying the upper half of the page).
- Small portrait photo of Jonathan King accompanying his column.
- Small inset photo of Elvis Presley within the Jonathan King column.
- Four individual circular portrait photos of The Koobas members: Stu, Keith, Roy, Tony.
Notes:
- Jonathan King's column is a regular feature of the paper; this debut instalment makes a bold prediction about the Walker Brothers' longevity vs. the Stones.
- The Koobas ad is a full promotional piece with tour dates and media appearances — a typical agency-placed promo ad of the era.
Content type: Feature article / News column / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "Hollywood Calling! by Derek Taylor" — Derek Taylor's US-focused column, opening with a question about whether Nancy or Frank Sinatra is more famous today. Covers US chart news including Percy Sledge's "When a Man Loves a Woman" (at 73 on Billboard), James Brown and the Famous Flames, The Toys, Ramsey Lewis, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Fontella Bass, and Herb Alpert. Notes chart struggles and successes for the Walker Brothers, Kinks, Yardbirds, and the Lovin' Spoonful. Enthuses about the Mamas and the Papas heading for a UK Number One with "Monday, Monday".
- "Neil strikes it rich — and baby that's nice!" — Feature on Neil Christian, a young singer from London's East End, whose debut disc label Strike is making a chart breakthrough with "That's Nice", described as a Kinks-influenced song with brass and big band backing.
Advertisements:
- Clarks shoes: "Shoes for Young Men of Tomorrow" — Freestride 39/11-55/11 Black Smooth side, various fittings. Full bottom-left display ad with illustration of man posing against slot machine backdrop.
Photos/Images:
- Large photo (left half of page): Man in cap posing against a backdrop of fruit machines/slot machines and bar signs — likely illustrating the Clarks shoes ad.
- Small inset photo of Fontella Bass (captioned "FONTELLA—going down").
- Small inset photo of Gerry (Marsden, of Gerry and the Pacemakers) (captioned "GERRY—going up").
- Small inset photo of Neil Christian (captioned "NEIL CHRISTIAN—a hit with 'That's Nice'").
Notes:
- The Derek Taylor column is notable for its commentary on the generational shift in pop, contrasting Frank Sinatra's era with new West Coast sounds.
- Percy Sledge mention is an early UK reference to "When a Man Loves a Woman".
Content type: Feature article / Column
Headlines/Articles:
- "WORRIED — THAT'S ME, says Scott Walker" — Profile/feature on Scott Walker of the Walker Brothers, exploring his elusive personality and stage fright. Describes him as difficult to find before shows, hiding in lighting rooms or make-up rooms. Scott is quoted: "A room full of people terrifies me." Includes a sidebar section titled "WASTE" in which Scott discusses his frustrations with the TV industry and his dislike of being shut up in a dressing room.
- "S.D. OF CATHY McG" — A detailed breakdown of the spending habits and lifestyle of Cathy McGowan, the "Ready Steady Go!" presenter. Covers her earnings (variable but never less than £500/week), living arrangements, hair care (washed twice a week at Leonard of Mayfair), make-up (Germaine Monteil's Super Glow foundation), clothes (roughly £40/week, some made specially by Barbara Hulanicki), shoes (Charles Jourdan, Bond Street), stockings and bags.
- "POP POEM by Yardbirds Jim and Chris" — A humorous pop-culture poem by Yardbirds members Jim McCarty and Chris Dreja, commenting on the charts and fellow artists including The Hollies ("Can't Let Go"), The Faces, Kenny Lynch, The Stones ("Satisfaction"), The Walkers, Sonny Bono, Lou Christie, Dave Dee Dozy Beaky Mick & Tich, The Kinks, and Joe Brown.
Advertisements:
- None visible on this page.
Photos/Images:
- Large full-page portrait photo of Scott Walker wearing dark sunglasses, looking pensive. Caption: "SCOTT: 'A room full of people terrifies me.'"
- Small portrait photo of Cathy McGowan (lower left).
- Small portrait photo of Chris Dreja (Yardbirds) accompanying the Pop Poem column, captioned "CHRIS DREJA".
Notes:
- The Pop Poem column is a witty, sardonic look at the current charts, name-checking many contemporaries. Written by Yardbirds members.
- The Cathy McGowan piece reads as a "day in the life" spending diary feature.
Content type: Feature article / Pop Panel / Advertisement
Headlines/Articles:
- "MICK'S SECRET LIFE — He reads 'The Times' in bed every day…" by Mike Ledgerwood — In-depth profile of Mick Jagger's daily life in London. Describes his ground-floor flat in the West End (formerly shared with Keith Richard), his routine of reading The Times in bed, afternoon wandering around Mayfair and Soho, lunching at King's Road or Chelsea restaurants, browsing furniture shops in Fulham Road, and picking up records in Soho. Mick is quoted on queuing, his dog Dora, and life as a Rolling Stone. Notes his fondness for Carnaby Street and Chelsea boutiques, and that he has trousers made to measure.
- "Our favourite Americans? — Reader Quiz" — Pop Panel feature asking readers to vote between Roy Orbison and Gene Pitney as Britain's favourite American artist. Reader quotes and opinions presented from multiple fans across the country, debating the merits of both artists. General verdict leans toward Gene Pitney as more versatile ("all-round entertainer"), while Roy Orbison is credited with "Pretty Woman" as his best record.
Advertisements:
- St Louis Union — "Behind the door" (Decca, F 12386) — small display ad.
- Kim Davis — "Don't take your lovin' away" (Decca, F 12387) — small display ad.
- Partial ad visible at far right edge (cut off).
Photos/Images:
- Large portrait photo of Mick Jagger (right side), smiling, accompanying the "Mick's Secret Life" feature.
- Small side-by-side portraits of Gene Pitney (captioned "all round entertainer") and Roy Orbison (captioned "Pretty Woman his best effort") at top left.
Notes:
- The "Mick's Secret Life" feature gives a rare glimpse into Jagger's private routine at the height of the Rolling Stones' fame.
- The Decca ads for St Louis Union and Kim Davis appear to be new release promotions placed alongside editorial content.
Content type: Feature article / News / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Cilla on marriage — "THE QUEEN HASN'T DONE TOO BADLY—BUT IT'S NOT YET FOR ME!" (EXCLUSIVE): An interview by Penny Valentine with Cilla Black about her views on marriage. Cilla talks candidly about her relationship with road manager Bobby Willis ("my steady boyfriend, but that's where it ends"), her Catholic faith as a reason against hasty marriage, her admiration for the Queen who "travels more than anyone", and her thoughts on children ("I'd like them to have that lovely pale blond hair or black hair"). She rules out going solo or becoming a housewife any time soon.
- Indian war cries at Hollies American shows!: Brief news story about the Hollies' experience in South Dakota, USA, where the group spent a riotous evening at a millionaire's swimming pool, and where local Indian trouble forced the venue to cancel their appearance.
Advertisements:
- The Mexicans — "Zorba's Trumpet" (Decca F 12388)
- Ted Astley — "The Baron (Theme from the TV Series)" (Decca F 12389)
- Small partially-visible ad for a record/music shop (cut off at left edge)
Photos/Images:
- Large studio photograph of Cilla Black in a bold striped outfit, seated, looking upward
- Small headshot of a Hollie (Graham Nash identified in the text) accompanying the Hollies news item
Notes:
- Marked as EXCLUSIVE. Byline: Penny Valentine.
- Sub-headings within the Cilla article: "Wrong", "Sensible", "Kids"
- Page number 13 confirmed in top-right header: "Disc and Music Echo—April 23rd, 1966"
Content type: News / Column / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Liverpool groups join the Common Market!: News round-up of Liverpool beat groups touring Europe. The Dodoes are going to the Continent for three months, visiting Italy and Spain. The Clayton Squares may visit Italy (Rome) in August/September after playing the Star Club in Germany. The Escorts hope to release a new single and plan trips to Sweden and Holland for TV appearances.
- Clayton Squares May Visit Italy: Sub-story within the above, noting the Clayton Squares "just missed a hit" with their single "Come And Get It".
- Realm: Two members of the Realm have quit — Joey Singer and Earl Preston. Rumour that Mike Pender of the Searchers may fill the vacant drum seat.
- Connoisseurs: Easter Saturday all-nighter at Liverpool's Grave proved unlucky — two guitars were stolen from their dressing room.
- BIG L SHOW — Radio London column by DJ Paul Kaye: DJ Paul Kaye (Radio London's news director) introduces himself to Disc and Music Echo readers, discusses the importance of pop papers to Radio London and listeners, mentions a clarinets from a cousin in Yorkshire, and pledges to keep fans "swinging on the pop scene".
Advertisements:
- Frank Hessy Limited (27-29-62 Stanley St., Liverpool): Musical instruments, electronic organs, PA equipment, guitars. Price list included (Vox PA ÂŁ160, Edgeware Drum Kit ÂŁ90, Gibson Amplifier ÂŁ31, Spanish Guitar ÂŁ18, 30 Watt Amplifier).
- "Stay switched on to the pop scene with Disc and Music Echo every week!": Subscription ad. ÂŁ3 a year or ÂŁ6 for three years. Orders to: Subscription Dept., Temple Press, 40 Bowling Green Lane, London, EC1.
- Cheat and Lie by Miki Dallon (JH 306) on Strike Records Ltd. — "Dynamic writer and producer of 'That's Nice' by Neil Christian (JH 301)". Address: Suite 15, 43 Upper Berkeley Street, W.1.
Photos/Images:
- Group photograph of the Clayton Squares, captioned "CLAYTON SQUARES—they just missed a hit with 'Come And Get It'"
- Small headshot of DJ Paul Kaye, captioned "PAUL"
Notes:
- Page number 14 confirmed in top-left header: "Disc and Music Echo—April 23rd, 1966"
- The Mersey News banner runs across the full width of the top of the page.
Content type: Feature article / News column / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- Cher — bang bang! Should she go solo?: A feature article examining whether Cher should pursue a solo career following the success of her single "Bang Bang". Sonny Bono is quoted acknowledging Cher's voice isn't "the greatest in the world" but says he loves performing too much to quit. The article discusses their forthcoming film ("Kiss Kiss Bang Bang", retitled "Good Times"), their first film and soundtrack album in production, and the creative dynamic of Sonny and Cher as a duo. Cher is described as approaching solo work cautiously.
- SCENE column: A busy gossip and news round-up column, including:
- New Animals LP "Bright Lights Big City" references London's Flamingo and Scotch of St. James clubs
- David Jacobs prevented the Juke Box Jury panel discussing Wayne Fontana's "Come On Home"
- Kim Fowley, P.J. Proby's former friend and confidant, is mentioned as being "back"
- Alan Price injured his right-hand finger shifting an organ in the studio
- Alan Price features on 12 of 14 tracks of the new Animals LP "The Most Of The Animals"
- Van Morrison has a song "Gloria" by the group Shades of Night riding high in American charts
- Paul Simon's "Richard Cory" (from Simon and Garfunkel's "Sounds of Silence") is their next UK single
- Alan Price's birthplace (Fatfield, County Durham) — the Chief Constable wrote to the organist about Alan's group playing overtime at Tiles, Oxford Street
- Alan Price and Stevie Winwood shopping in the West End on Saturday
- Paul Samwell-Smith's girlfriend Rosie Simons leaving the "Ready Steady Go" office
- Spencer Davis trying to get seats for Barbra Streisand's "Funny Girl"
- Scott Walker says to watch out for some surprises after their current tour
- Lulu pleased with her new short hair
- Simon Dee is a good panellist on Juke Box
- The Lovin' Spoonful started wearing funny hats because they rehearsed using the plaster used to fall off the ceiling
- Searchers going to have a hard time without Chris
- My Kinky Kinks! by Ray Davies: A short character profile by Ray Davies describing the Kinks. He profiles Mick Avory (drummer — "He's not really as quiet as some people suspect"), Pete Quaife (bass — "He's a mod; a real live Anorak mad"), Dave Davies (guitar — "very underrated"), and himself. Ray notes Dave's clumsiness and unconventionality, and that he himself is "one of the few people who has retained his original stage image".
Advertisements:
- Small classified-style ad: "Send Songs to the USA!!" (73 names and addresses of music publishers)
- The Whisky A'Go Go presents: Lee Dorsey (Tuesday 3rd May) and Dixie Cups (Thursday 5th May), 33/37 Wardour Street, GER 7676
Photos/Images:
- Large close-up portrait photograph of Cher dominating the top half of the page (dark hair, heavy fringe)
- Small photograph of Sonny Bono accompanying the Cher article
- Small headshot of Alan Price with caption: "I'm a bit worried he's started braying 'I'm a Loser'"
- Small photo within the "My Kinky Kinks!" article (appears to be Ray Davies)
Notes:
- Page number 15 confirmed in top-right header: "Disc and Music Echo—April 23rd, 1966"
- The SCENE column is a dense single-column gossip roundup running down the left side of the page.
- Ray Davies's "My Kinky Kinks!" bylined feature runs across the bottom half of the page.
Content type: TV column / Film reviews / News / Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- Whole Scene Gone? (TV column): Critical commentary on BBC TV music shows including Whole Scene Gone (BBC-TV, Wednesday 6.30pm), noting the show seems to be grinding to a halt. Mentions Twiggy (Lesley Hornby) taking a turn, and Wendy Varnals in danger of becoming an early-RSG Cathy McGowan. Pop guests included Alan Price Set, Manfred Mann, and America's Yimi Yuro.
- CRISPIAN! Where did you get that shirt?: Short news column covering recent TV appearances — Rolling Stones returned to Top of the Pops performing "Mother's Little Helper" from the Aftermath LP; Simon & Garfunkel made their first UK TV appearance during "Homeward Bound"; The Who performed "Substitute" with Roger Daltrey sporting a new short haircut; Searchers performed their Jagger-Richard song "Take It Or Leave It" with new drummer Johnny Blunt's name wrongly listed; Seekers with "Someday One Day". Speculates on Crispian St Peters' billowy shirt suggesting he looks like "another P.J. Proby."
- Frankie and Johnny — Just for Squares (Films section): Review of Elvis Presley's film Frankie and Johnny, arguing his tie-up with movie-making prevents personal appearances in Britain. Film criticised as samey and predictable. Co-star Donna Douglas noted. Supporting film The Swingin' Set reviewed as equally dated, featuring The Animals (Alan Price, John Steel), the Dave Clark Five, Nancy Sinatra, Stan Getz, Astrud Gilberto, and Jimmy Smith.
Advertisements:
- Squires Budget Plan (large display ad, lower left): "I can choose ANY records I want with Squires Budget Plan" — £10 worth of records for 5/- per week (pops, jazz, classics, LPs, EPs, 45s). Squires Records Limited, Dept. D/ME 4.66, 201 Tooting High Street, London S.W.17.
- Northern Organ (small ad, lower right): organ priced at ÂŁ87.13.0.
- "We Wooditall" (small ad, lower right).
Photos/Images:
- Wendy (Varnals), captioned with her name — close-up portrait.
- Stone Charlie Watts — caption reads "STONE CHARLIE WATTS—smile please!"
- Astrud Gilberto — captioned "with Stan Getz in 'The Swingin' Set'."
- Dave Clark — captioned "filmed in States."
- Nancy Sinatra — caption reads "NANCY SINATRA'S boots look like taking her straight into another walkover…" pictured in Hollywood dressing room preparing for Last of The Secret Agents.
Notes:
- Page header banner references a string of TV shows: "Juke Box Jury…Top of the Pops…Now!!!…Whole Scene Going…Lucky Stars…Scene at 6.30…RSG."
- The TV column is split between left-column bullet points (about Whole Scene Gone) and a right-column text block (about Top of the Pops and other programmes).
Content type: Gossip/news column / Feature article / Ad
Headlines/Articles:
- Name Game by Rod Harrod — Dusty buys gear, Spencer pays bills: Gossip column with several items:
- Spencer Davis: Has spent the past six months on paperwork, catching up with fan letters and group bills. His wife suggests they give most work to their accountant.
- Dusty Springfield: Having 20 new dresses made for her forthcoming BBC TV series (starts 24 May), costing nearly ÂŁ2,500. Celebrated her birthday the previous Saturday.
- Georgie Fame: Plans three weeks in Spain in August with fiancée Carmen; going to Playa de Aaro (Swiss friend's daughter lives there).
- Roy Orbison: His foot cast (covered with autographs from the Walkers and Lulu while injured on American tour) has now been removed.
- Sammy (Samantha Juste): BBC giving her a chance on screen; has appeared on Whole Scene but not the programme for two years; Jimmy Savile is the only disc jockey who always asks if Jimmy and I "get on or something."
- Roger Daltrey: Meeting group plugger Jimmy James; pushing "Hi Diddy Dee Dum Dum"; quoted saying Jimmy has more soul in his little finger than Stevie Winwood or any of the Stevies.
- Walkers (Walker Brothers): John Maus considering investing in Britain but feels Gary (Leeds) wants property while Scott (Walker) is not interested — prefers spending money on photography equipment at £300 a purchase.
- Despite All Those Knockers — They laugh all the way to the bank: Feature on The Bachelors (Dec, John, Con Cluskey). Despite constant criticism from the pop press, the group are thriving financially — all have bought new houses, new cars. Dec comments positively on Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel as an LP track. John quoted defending their fanbase and commercial appeal.
- Wayne Comes Back Home: Feature on Wayne Fontana post-Mindbenders split. After a nervous breakdown he is back — his new record "Groovy Kind of Love" is doing well and he looks set for the top again.
Advertisements:
- Black Gin Bessenrood (bottom right): "Summer party-goers drink Bessenrood, the Black Gin! On the rocks, with tonic, with soda." 35/- at off-licences, wine merchants. Imported by Stewells of Chelsea.
Photos/Images:
- Spencer Davis — small portrait, labelled "SPENCER DAVIS."
- Roger Daltrey — mid-shot portrait, captioned "ROGER DALTREY."
- The Bachelors — group photo (three men smiling), accompanying the "They laugh all the way to the bank" article. Headline reads "Despite All Those Knockers."
- Small unidentified portrait (lower left, associated with Wayne Fontana article).
Notes:
- The Bachelors piece is the dominant visual item on the right half of the page, with a large bold headline.
- "Name Game" column covers a wide range of acts in bulletin-style short paragraphs, signed by Rod Harrod.
Content type: Feature article / Band news / Pen pals / Ad
Headlines/Articles:
- The Day the Crack-Up Came for Chris! (by Frank Allen): Full-page feature on Chris Curtis, leader-drummer of the Searchers, who suffered a nervous breakdown following a tour of Australia and the Far East. He announced he was quitting, playing his last date with the group. Frank Allen (fellow Searcher) is quoted at length: describes Chris as a very strong person but more prone to illness than most; says Chris was "very wrapped up in music and nothing else seemed to matter." Replacement drummer Johnny Blunt is discussed — Frank says it is "almost certain" Johnny will stay, praising his enthusiasm and improvement. The Searchers' image is noted as having settled down, with Mike (Pender) having a more mature, middle-aged appeal. Pullquote: "I could see it coming — he's not been well."
- Long Hair? Part of Our New Image — say Unit 4 (Unit 4 Plus Two): Short feature. The group used to have short hair and wear tailored suits, but when lead singer Tommy Moeller appeared on the Palladium TV at Easter with wavy black locks, audiences reacted well. Tommy quoted: "Personally I don't like long hair, but it's all part of our new image." Notes that the Palladium switchboard was jammed by callers wanting to know who "that group of nice young men" were.
- Lightnin' Love Strikes Lou: Light feature on Lou Christie proposing to Timi Yuro over a bowl of spaghetti at the "Lightnin'" club. They have known each other for about five years in the States. Lou's manager confirmed their engagement; Timi wore a five-carat diamond ring brought over from Brussels. Timi ending a short season at Annie's (London club). Pop Pen Pals officially announced their engagement.
- Pop Pen Pals (column): Readers seeking pen pals, including Dieter Strohschank (Ettlingen, Germany, 21), Miss Veronica Skibin (Peasdown, Nr. Bath), Miss Beverly Steward (New Orleans, Louisiana), Hans-Richard Katscheim (Steinstr., Germany), Miss Linda Ballance (Church Road, Willesden, London N.W.10). Contact: Pop Pen Pals, Disc and Music Echo, 161 Fleet Street, London E.C.4.
Advertisements:
- Tom Jones (half-page display ad, bottom left): Humorous ad reading: "EVERYTIME I THINK OF DISC AND MUSIC ECHO MERGING IT BRINGS ANOTHER LUMP TO MY THROAT — TOM SILLITIS — TOM JONES." Signed as a joke in the style of a reader's letter.
Photos/Images:
- Chris Curtis — large dramatic portrait (dark/moody), accompanying the Crack-Up feature. Also a smaller inset portrait.
- Tommy (Unit 4 Plus Two) — small portrait, captioned "TOMMY — 'kids lap us up'."
- Lou Christie and Timi Yuro — small photo of the couple together, accompanying the Lightnin' love article.
Notes:
- The Searchers feature dominates the upper two-thirds of the page with a bold, typographically striking headline using a distressed/cracked font for "CRACK-UP."
- The banner headline at the very top reads: "The story behind the Searchers sensation."
- Johnny Blunt is named as the replacement drummer for the Searchers following Chris Curtis's departure.
Content type: News / Feature article / Reviews / Ads
Headlines/Articles:
- Manfred Defends 'Flamingo': Manfred Mann calls Disc and Music Echo to rebut suggestions that "Pretty Flamingo" is about a prostitute, defending the lyric against Paul Jones's earlier interpretation in the previous week's issue.
- A Spoonful of Lovin' / 'Daydream' boys are in town—and it's a crazy scene: Feature on the Lovin' Spoonful's visit to London to promote "Daydream", describing the band's personality and live reputation, their Chuck Berry and Dr Feelgood influences, and Zal Yanovsky's antics (including his no-socks habit and throwing himself across three chairs).
- Cilla: A Super New LP: Track-by-track review of Cilla Black's new LP Cilla Sings a Rainbow, covering "Love's Just a Broken Heart", "Lover's Concerto", "Make It Easy on Yourself", "One Two Three", "No Place to Hide", "When I Fall in Love", and "Yesterday" among others. Generally positive.
- Majorca—the rave resort for top pop people: Short piece noting Majorca as the fashionable summer destination for British pop stars. Names mentioned as heading there include Sandie Shaw's manager Eve Taylor, DJ Jimmy Savile, the Animals, Zoot Money, Moody Blues, Lulu, Walker Brothers, Cliff Richard, Cilla Black, the Hollies, Gene Pitney, and John Maus.
Advertisements:
- Norma Tanega "Walkin' My Cat Named Dog" (Stateside SS 496) — full-column ad, Ardmore & Beechwood Ltd., 30–34 Langham Street, London W.1.
Photos/Images:
- Large photo: Zal Yanovsky (Lovin' Spoonful lead guitarist) arriving at London Airport, flanked by fans Mandy McLaren (left) and Jane Watt. Caption: "A swingin' Spoonful-type welcome for 21-years-old Lovin' Spoonful lead guitarist Zal Yanovsky from fans Mandy McLaren (left) and Jane Watt at London Airport."
- Small photo: Goldie, caption "GOLDIE—Majorca", accompanying the Majorca holiday feature.
Notes:
- The Manfred Mann column is a follow-up to the previous week's Paul Jones interview where Jones suggested the song meaning was ambiguous.
- "Daydream" is noted as being at the chart highspots. The Lovin' Spoonful rehearsed in the basement of Zal Yanovsky's hotel.
Content type: LP Reviews / Classified Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- LP Reviews by Mike Ledgerwood — Roaring Animals!: Review of The Animals' LP The Most of the Animals (Columbia SX 6035). Highly positive; highlights Eric Burdon's distinctive voice and the group's run from "Baby Let Me Take You Home" to "It's My Life". 14 tracks including "We Gotta Get Out of This Place", "Boom Boom", "House of the Rising Sun", "Dimples", and "Talkin' 'Bout You".
- Herb Alpert — Sounds Tijuana (Stateside SL 10176): Lukewarm review; describes Alpert as one of the most commercial sounds around, enjoying tremendous success with bouncy Tijuana rhythms.
- Simon and Garfunkel — Sounds of Silence (CBS BPG 62690): Enthusiastic review; notes the duo's sudden, quiet emergence on the British pop scene, calling them "compulsively distinctive" and leaving a "definite mark".
- Nancy Wilson — From Broadway With Love (Capitol T 2433): Positive review; praises her laughing voice and calls her "definitely the finest female singer to appear in the last few years". Tracks listed include "Hey There", "Hello Dolly", "Makin' Whoopee", and "You'd Better Love Me".
- Beach Boys — The Beach Boys Today? (Capitol T 2269): Mixed review; judges their songs as "so old-hat it's ridiculous" but concedes "Dance Dance Dance" and "Help Me Rhonda" as better tracks. Notes their commercial formula.
- Toys — Lover's Concerto / Attack (Stateside SL 10175): Negative review; a "wicked waste" of everyone's time, described as a "hotch-potch load of old rubbish".
Advertisements:
- Classified Advertisements section occupies the lower half of the page, divided into: Personal (pen pals, introductions), Tape Recorders Etc., Tuition (singing/pop), Records Wanted, Records for Sale, Fan Clubs (Koobas, League of Gentlemen, Hedge Hoppers Anonymous, D.B.M.A.T., Pretty Things, Bob Lind), Publications (Motor Cycling, Rugby World, Sporting Cyclist, Sporting Record).
- Disc and Music Echo classified rates box: standard, trade, and situations vacant rates listed, with insertion form.
Photos/Images:
- Photo of Eric Burdon, caption: "ERIC BURDON—fabulous voice."
- Photo of Herb Alpert, caption: "HERB ALPERT—commercial."
- Photo of Nancy Wilson, smiling glamour portrait, caption: "NANCY WILSON."
Notes:
- Mike Ledgerwood reviews six LPs across this page; the Animals review dominates with the large headline "ROARING ANIMALS!" and is the most enthusiastic of the batch.
Content type: Letters / Pop post / Crossword
Headlines/Articles:
- Keith Relf Gets 10 of the Best! (Pop Post — Star Letter): Reader Denise Docura of London N.18 lists ten reasons why Yardbirds vocalist Keith Relf is "the most fantastic male ever to hit the pop scene" (kind and friendly, fabulous personality, gorgeous silky blonde hair, lovely blue eyes, fabulous build, fantastic clothes, fab white teeth, etc.).
- Country Pop More Popular?: Brief item questioning whether country and western music is gaining popularity in Britain, noting tours by Johnny Cash, Stanley Brothers, Bill Monroe, Eddy Arnold. Photo of unidentified country artist.
- Proby? Big-head!: Short piece by reader Irene Prior (London N.8) chiding P.J. Proby for going back to the States and not understanding why British girls admire him, while praising Keith Relf and the Yardbirds as the true yard-style birds.
- Walkers No Weirdies: Letter from Mrs Joan Wild (Bradford, Yorks) praising the Walker Brothers' show; applauds Gary, John and Scott's sense of humour and calls them "very thoughtful young men."
- Miss Dynamite!: Letter from Alan French (London W.1) attempting to collect 5,000 signatures for a "Bring Brenda Back" petition to persuade Brenda Lee's representatives for another British tour.
- Fits for Brian?: Short letter (Carol Chalker, Bath) expressing surprise that "Ballad of the Green Berets" entered the Top 50, suggesting Brian Matthew must have several "fits."
- Leave Alan Alone!: Item championing Alan Price's single "I Put a Spell on You", calling it one of those records that stands out for its atmosphere and feeling, despite being dismissed as a "carbon-copy of Eric Burdon." Written by Christine Garner, Leatherhead, Surrey. Photo of Alan Price.
- Seekers to Top!: Letter from Valerie Watterson (Belfast, N. Ireland) predicting the Seekers will hit number one with "Someday One Day" and praising Bruce, Judith, and Athol as the nicest people on the pop scene.
- Postman's Knock: Short letters column. Elvis's star quality debated (Kink Ray Davies says Elvis should get more "with it"); Joan Somers (Hyde, Cheshire) urges Mick Jagger to grow up; advice to Mick Jagger from Shirley Joys (Slough); M. Fox (Greenford) says "Cliff must NOT go!"
- Last Words: Brief signed reader snippets — Rolling Stones popularity explained by looking in the mirror; Beatles having made one, "we're told"; advice to Mister Jagger; Cliff staying urged.
- Big L's Great: Note that Radio London DJ Dave Dennis spoke to Scene about his American trip and the Big L column.
- Discword: Crossword puzzle. Clues include references to pop acts: Cilla, Beach Boys, Ann, Eulu (Lulu), Eddy Arnold, the Beatles, Peter and Gordon.
Advertisements:
- None (page is entirely editorial/letters/crossword).
Photos/Images:
- Large close-up portrait of Keith Relf (Yardbirds), slightly out of focus — dramatic composition filling the upper-right portion of the page.
- Small photo of Alan Price accompanying the "Leave Alan Alone!" item.
- Photo of unidentified country and western artist accompanying the "Country Pop More Popular?" item.
Notes:
- The "Discword" crossword is fully printed with grid and clues (Across and Down).
- "Pop Post" is the reader letters/fan mail section of the magazine.
Content type: Record Reviews / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- St. Louis Union — "on dramatic kick": Review of "Behind The Door" (Decca), written by Graham Gouldman. Praised for its unusual, dramatic quality — beautiful bass guitar, jazzy middle break, up-tempo end — but considered possibly too weird for the charts.
- Dave Anthony — "New Directions" (Parlophone): Reviewed briefly; noted as well-written (by Manfred Mann and Mike Hugg) but sounds rather ordinary despite competent execution.
- Berries — "I Could Make You Fall In Love" (Piccadilly): Negative review; described as a weak Carter Lewis song with typical Ivy League high-pitched parts but lacking in interest.
- Pretty Things — "too ugly!": Review of "Come See Me" (Fontana), written partly by J.J. Jackson. Reviewer dislikes the ugly arrangement and anti-sound, calling it a shame.
- "PENNY" column — "Troggs Stop Me In My Tracks!": Extended column by Penny reviewing multiple releases: Troggs "Wild Thing" (Fontana) — a rave hit; Rod Stewart covering Sam Cooke's "Shake" (Columbia); Diane Ferraz and Nicky Scott — "You've Got To Learn" (Charles Aznavour song, Columbia); Brian Hyland "3,000 Miles" (Philips); Mort Shuman (Fontana); Eddie Cochran "C'mon Everybody" re-release (Liberty); Bill Oddie "I Can't Get Through" (Parlophone); Revolution "Hallelujah" (Piccadilly); Ray Charles "Together A'gin"; Edwin Starr "Stop Her On Sight (S.O.S.)" (Polydor); Valerie Masters "It's Up To You" (Polydor); Mick Scott "I Am A Rock" (Mercury); Keely Simon; the Spotlights "Batman And Robin" (Philips).
Advertisements:
- Roy 'C' — "Shotgun Wedding" (Island WI-273): Large display ad claiming "The Fastest-Selling Record In Our History!" Published by Island Records, 155 Oxford Street, London W1.
- "POPSHOPS — where to get your new discs": Large directory of record shops across the UK, listed alphabetically by town (Accrington, Barry, Belfast, Birkenhead, Birmingham, Bolton, Bristol, Cambridge, Carlisle, Chatham, Crewe, Darwen, Derby, Doncaster, Glasgow, Haverfordwest, Holywell and more).
- W.H. Smith & Son: Full-width ad promoting W.H. Smith branches for pop records, with an extensive list of UK towns and locations.
Photos/Images:
- Small group photo of St. Louis Union (top left, four members pictured).
- Small photo of Pretty Things member (centre, accompanying review).
Notes:
- Page header: Disc and Music Echo — April 23rd, 1966.
- The Penny column is notable for covering a wide range of releases in a single take.
- "Behind The Door" by St. Louis Union notes the reviewer could hear the Animals doing it — topical given Alan Price's recent departure from that group.
Content type: Record Reviews / Advertisements
Headlines/Articles:
- "PICKS NEW POPS" — four mini-reviews of new releases:
- Toys — "May My Heart Be Cast Into Stone" (Stateside): Labelled "racket!" — reviewer likes the chart potential and the fantastic high messy backing but notes the Toys sing poorly. Flip: "On Backstreet."
- Merseys — "Sorrow" (Fontana): Labelled "best ever" — enthusiastically reviewed; written by the Strangeloves, described as the best thing this Merseys have done. Manager Kit Lambert mentioned. Flip: "Some Other Day."
- Goldie — "I Do" (Fontana): Labelled "individual" — originally recorded by the Marvelows; reviewer likes the progressive voices and Goldie's individual tone. Not fully pleased but considers it rather good. Flip: "Think About The Good Times."
- Episode Six — "I Hear Trumpets Blow" (Pye): Labelled "smash" — originally raved about by the Tokens; slightly cleaner sound than the original. Described as a definite smash with off-beat, slightly medieval words. Flip: "True Love Is Funny."
Advertisements:
- Edwin Starr — "Stop Her on Sight (S.O.S.)" (Polydor BM 56 702 / Atlantic / Reaction): Large display ad prominently placed in the centre of the page.
- Continuation of the POPSHOPS directory from page 22: record shops listed for Leeds, Newport, Nantwich, Norwich, Northwich, Nottingham, Oldham + Oswestry, Oxford, Peterborough, Plymouth, Reigate/Redhill, Sheerness, Sittingbourne, Southport, Sunderland, Sutton, Thornton Heath, Welwyn Garden City, Wolverhampton, Waltham Cross, Wrexham.
- NEMS — "Swinging Disc Centres for Pop People": Locations in Liverpool (12-14 Whitechapel and 50 Great Charlotte Street), Netherton, Alberton, Walton, Maghull, Runcorn, Garston.
Photos/Images:
- Portrait photo of Toys — group shot (top left, labelled "TOYS—yell").
- Portrait photo of Merseys artist/Goldie (top centre, labelled "MERSEYS—I like").
Notes:
- Page header: Disc and Music Echo — April 23rd, 1966.
- The "Picks New Pops" format features brief opinionated mini-reviews with punchy one-word or short-phrase verdicts as subheadings.
- Kit Lambert named as manager of the Merseys — notable as he was also managing The Who at the time.
Content type: Feature Articles / Venue Listings / Advertisements (Back page)
Headlines/Articles:
- "Price of a hit — by Alan Price": Column by Alan Price reflecting on having a hit record with "I Put A Spell On You." He discusses the mixed nature of chart success, people's reactions, the difficulty of follow-up, his post-Animals career building a solid following, and how he values his free time.
- "The week she hits No 1 — Dusty does the monkey!": Feature on Dusty Springfield hitting No. 1 in the charts — her first ever — with "You Don't Have To Say You Love Me," which also coincided with her 26th birthday. Reports her birthday gifts included £25 from her manager and a baby monkey sent by fans, which arrived at Ready Steady Go studios in Wembley.
- "and wasn't she a gas on 'RSG'?": Review of the Friday edition of Ready Steady Go featuring Dusty Springfield, the Lovin' Spoonful, and the Vibrations. Praises Dusty and criticises the show's use of Cathy McGowan to interview Chris Andrews — describing his performance as sounding better live than on record. Notes the Vibrations as "a slick male American group."
Advertisements:
- Tiles Club — "This Week at Tiles!": Full venue listings for Tiles Club, 79-89 Oxford St., London (GERrard 2977):
- Thursday April 21: Alan Price Set + The Koobas
- Friday April 22: Graham Bonney ("Super Girl") with supporting groups
- Saturday April 23: The Kenny Everett Show + Steve Darbieshire and the Yum Yum Band + The Tea-Set
- Monday April 25: Lee Dorsey + supporting groups
- Tuesday April 26: Radio Luxembourg's "Ready Steady Radio!" with Everett of England and Dee Shenderey; "Young London Spins"
- Wednesday April 27: Star Disc Session introduced by Young London Columnist David Wigg
- Also: Daily Radio Luxembourg 208 Lunchtime Disc Party (noon–3pm, 2/6 entrance, free Coke to members)
- Late Night Shopping every night in Tiles Street!
- "DISC and Music Echo — Special! Exclusive to YOU Next week: Nancy Sinatra / Dusty / Manfreds / Lovin' Spoonful": Teaser ad for next issue's exclusives, with a token offer for a free copy of the "Sound of the Stars" record.
- Publisher's imprint (bottom of page): Disc and Music Echo published by Disc Echo Ltd., 161-166 Fleet Street, London EC4. Printed by Oxley and Son (Windsor) Ltd. American trade distributors: European Publishers Representatives Inc., New York.
Photos/Images:
- Large photo of Dusty Springfield, smiling and holding her baby monkey (top right).
- Small inset portrait of Chris Andrews (bottom centre-right, labelled "CHRIS ANDREWS").
Notes:
- Page header: Disc and Music Echo — April 23rd, 1966. This is the back page (page 24) of the issue.
- Alan Price's column is a rare first-person piece; he refers to himself as "ex-Animal" and mentions the Stones and Beatles in the context of chart expectations.
- The Dusty Springfield No. 1 story is the main editorial highlight of the back page, tying together the chart success, her birthday, and her Ready Steady Go appearance in the same week.
- Masthead for Disc and Music Echo appears top left — price 9d (UK), 25 cents (USA).
Content type: Feature articles / Advertisement strip
Left page:
- Feature: "Mick's Secret Life" — article by Mike Ledgerwood profiling Mick Jagger's private habits. Subheading: "He reads 'The Times'... in bed every day..." Large photo of Mick Jagger.
- Feature: "Our Favourite Americans?" — article discussing British readers' favourite American entertainers; references Roy Orbison and Gene Pitney. Small photo of Gene Pitney captioned "GENE PITNEY — all-round entertainer. Roy Orbison is best effort."
- Reader Quiz — short quiz section at the bottom of the page. Includes names: Rita Thomas, Linda Marshall, Ruth Smith, Colin Carroll, Iris Reading, Joy Mitchell; several other reader names listed in small type.
Right page:
- "EXCLUSIVE!" banner at top.
- Feature: "Cilla — One Marriage" — exclusive interview with Cilla Black. Headline: "The Queen hasn't done too badly — but it's not yet for me!" Pull-quote: "Bobby is my steady boy friend, but that's where it ends." References to Bobby Willis. Article covers Cilla's views on marriage.
- Large photo of Cilla Black in a striped top.
- Short news story: "Indian war cries at Hollies American shows!" — brief item with a small photo, by Penny Valentine.
- Decca Records advertisement strip (right column): "In your shops today!"
- The Mexicans — Zorba's Trumpet (F-12388)
- Ted Astley — The Baron (Theme from the TV series) (F-12389)
- The Writ — Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind (F-12385)
- St Louis Union — Behind the Door (F-12388)
- Kim Davis — Don't Take Your Lovin' Away (F-12397)
Spanning content:
- The page header "Disc and Music Echo – April 23rd, 1966" runs across the top of both pages.
- Page numbers visible: 13 (left) and 13 repeated (right edge) — likely the physical pages 13/14 forming the centre spread.
Photos/Images:
- Large full-length photo of Cilla Black in a striped sleeveless top (right page, upper half).
- Large photo of Mick Jagger (left page, centre).
- Small headshot of Gene Pitney (left page, lower).
- Small photo accompanying the Hollies news item (right page, upper right).
Notes:
- The centre fold runs vertically between the two columns of article text; some text in the Cilla Black article may be partially obscured along the spine.
- The Decca ad strip is clearly laid out in the far-right column and is fully readable.