BOBBY ELLIOTT has good reason why he would rather play Reading’s Hexagon Theatre this weekend than the legendary Paramount Theatre in Manhattan.
During one American tour Bobby, the powerhouse drummer with British superstar band, The Hollies, found himself in a sticky situation involving rock ‘n’ roll star, Little Richard and a gun toting cop with the NYPD.
“It was 1964 and we were at the Paramount for a week, playing five shows a day with a number of other acts,” says Bobby.
“Everyone had 20 minutes to play two songs then you were off and the next band or singer came on. Little Richard decided he’d like to play a bit longer and just wouldn’t leave the stage so the cops were called. They literally dragged him off backstage where I was standing, with one cop holding a gun to Little Richard’s throat just inches from me.
“I realised that if he fired the gun, the bullet would go right through Little Richard and hit me. I ducked down while the tussle and screaming went on above. It was scary.”
By contrast, Bobby recalls much more enjoyable, and less frightening, visits to Reading: “There is a great pie shop near The Hexagon and a pub where the band and the roadies would go for a pint.
“That’s the way to prepare for a gig, rather than being caught up in a gunfight with an irate police officer and a legendary singer.”
The Hexagon visit is part of a UK tour for The Hollies who have been entertaining audiences for the last 60 years with timeless hits such as Long Cool Woman (In a Black Dress), The Air That I Breathe , He Ain’t Heavy, He’s My Brother, and Bus Stop.
The band has had more than 20 worldwide hits, including number one singles in both the US and UK, spending an astonishing 263 weeks in the UK top 40 official singles chart,
The Hollies’ music has transcended generations and their live performances continue to captivate fans worldwide.
The tour line-up includes Bobby, singer, songwriter, and lead guitarist Tony Hicks, both of whom are original members of the band. They are joined by lead singer Peter Howarth, as well as bass player Ray Stiles, Keyboardist Ian Parker, and Steve Lauri on Rhythm Guitar.
Talking to Bobby, it is hard to believe he is 82. He retains the drive, energy and sheer talent, which are evident in those old black and white videos from the early 1960s.
It’s no surprise that Sir Paul McCartney invited him to join Wings, the band he formed after the break-up of the Beatles.
“I was flattered, of course, but I told him I had gigs lined up with The Hollies and I couldn’t leave them,” he explains.
“We had something really good as a band. I couldn’t leave it whether we had gigs or not. The Hollies are like a family. I couldn’t just walk out.
“It was the same when we were inducted into the American Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame. They wanted us to fly over and do TV interviews but we explained we had gigs and couldn’t let the fans down.”
Bobby has been drumming and sounding out arrangements for as long as he can remember: “My mum had a grocery shop and I’d use upturned biscuit tins and Quality Street tins. You can’t do that today because they are usually plastic. I used two rulers from school as drumsticks.
“I’ve written some songs, but I’ve never wanted to be a lead singer or play other instruments. Drumming was for me.”
Bobby originally decided to play jazz drums and would perform rock and roll numbers at weekends.
“Those were the days when we had to carry our own instruments and amplifiers. Now I get to ride in a very comfy tour bus,” he laughs.
“I’m often asked why I still want to go on the road. Basically, I love it. There is a joy in performing especially as we have such great music. When we take a bow at the end and hear the cheers from the audience, it really lifts you.
“We’re doing three shows a week. I’m still fit and healthy and can’t wait to get on stage every night. I’m really looking forward to the Hexagon and being back in Reading.”
If anyone can recommend a good place for a pie and a pint, Bobby would be very grateful.
An Evening With The Hollies will be at The Hexagon on Friday, October 6. Tickets cost £34.50, £39.50 or £49.50. For more details, or to book, log on to: https://whatsonreading.com/ or call the box office on: 0118 960 6060.
