Tag: Lonnie Donegan

The Power of Music

It’s Dad’s funeral on Friday and with my two Sisters Moira and Helen, we’ve chosen four pieces of music for the occasion. I’d like to share them with you.

Dad loved trad jazz, Chris Barber and Acker Bilk were among his faves. We’re going in to the funeral to a live version of Bourbon Street Parade/When The Saints Go Marching In. We discovered this upbeat instrumental hidden away on the third CD of a compilation. I can’t find a version of this online so you’ll just have to take my word for it when I say it’s very uplifting.

During the service we’ll listen to two songs by The Beatles, Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) and In My Life. These remind us of our childhood and are also a nod to Mum

I’ve attempted a version of the first song here:

And left the second song to the professionals here:

Once all is said and done – we leave the room to Putting On The Style by the wonderful Lonnie Donegan, who as well as being a great musician, had a sense of humour just like Dad’s.

Music is powerful stuff and whilst there are loads of songs we could have picked, we’re happy these four pieces do a good job in helping to tell Dad’s story. We hope you enjoy listening to them.

After Someone Dies

After someone dies, we uncover many things, and we remember many things too. I’m uncovering and learning just how much Dad was involved in and supported his local community, it’s quite overwhelming. And I’m remembering Dad’s love of music. Skiffle and early rock (he was a big Lonnie Donegan fan), and traditional jazz were high on his list. If you have two minutes, take a look at this old video of Lonnie Donegan. It is raw energy, imagine how exciting it was to hear this for the first time in 1960.

After someone dies, as you start to go through paperwork and make the necessary arrangements, you often stumble across previously unseen stuff. I found Dad’s army discharge certificate last night. About him, it says:

Sgt Shaw has served with this regiment for the past two years. Right from his early days as a recruit, he showed tremendous promise and strength of character. All his work is marked by attention to detail, conscientious effort and enthusiasm. Completely loyal, trustworthy and of sober habits, he sets himself very high standards. A most reliable man who should be completely successful in his chosen profession.

Sergeant Shaw

After someone dies you are reminded of the power of friendship. The loss of a dear friend hurts, and the support of dear friends is powerful and vital. Thank you so much to everyone who has been in touch. It matters – and it’s sincerely appreciated.