By 1983 I had already collected a suitcase-full of press articles about rock-band Status Quo and decided to compile them into an In Their Own Words format book, popular at the time.
In a cold flat in Witham, Essex, above High Street shops, I spent weeks clacking away on a cheap typewriter as I selected the various quotes and themes, literally cutting them out and assembling them into chapters by hand. When I thought I had the order right, my girlfriend’s sister went to some trouble to type a manuscript version.
Copies of this were posted to various publishers and rejection letters received! However, John Brown, then at Virgin, replied that it was an ‘interesting project’, and that he would put it forward at an upcoming editorial meeting. Alas, unlike John who went on to enormous success in the publishing world (including the Viz empire), my Quo project was not picked up. [I have kept the letter and when I find it (!) I will add it to this blog.]
After a Status Quo gig at the Regent Theatre, Ipswich, I thrust a copy of the manuscript towards Francis as he legged it towards the band’s coach. He took it but what I thought he would do with it I don’t really know. Ironically years later I ended working with the band on a documentary and many promo videos but never once mentioned to them the book. [See John Keeling Media]
A while ago I found the typewritten manuscript and painfully managed to produce a PDF from photocopies. That PDF is 3.2mb and is attached here: Status Quotes manuscript
I withheld copyright information from the original manuscript until I got into a meaningful conversation with a publisher (this did not happen). Most of the publications the interview quotes are lifted from are now defunct.
The quotes are completely accurate from source. Fans will notice one or two hilarious errors in song lyrics and any mistakes were mine.
I am posting this manuscript for Status Quo fans (especially those of the ‘Frantic Four’ line-up) and historians of the band – I hope it will be of interest.
Lastly: a big thank-you to Katrina Nicholls for so generously typing the original manuscript – a lovely lady.
I so look forward to reading this! Thanks for sharing 👍🏻
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Many thanks for that, John. I’ve had a quick read of a couple of pages. Is it OK for me to print it off and keep it amongst my Quo memorabilia? It’s for no one’s eyes other than myself and my wife. If not, I perfectly understand. It’s a shame the project never came to fruition. Especially when it was intended because it would have sold. Everything Quo related did back then! Typical publishers’ blinkered approach I think. Anyway, many thanks again for sharing. Kind regards. Billy Smith.
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Of course Billy. Glad you have enjoyed it, and I really appreciate you making the comment.
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Hi John. I loved it!!!!! Many thanks for sharing👍 Holly. Songwriter. Sixties girl🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶🎶
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You’re welcome Holly, thanks so much for leaving a comment 🙂
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a big thanks for this John ,, will help with the cabin fever 🙂 cheers
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Hi John, you are very welcome and thanks for leaving a comment – I really appreciate it when readers do 🙂
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Thanks so much John, this is a welcome bit of good stuff when there is otherwise so much anguish in the world. Much appreciated and very enjoyable.
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You’re welcome Damien and thanks for the comment.
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Hi john,
Many thanks for this, a great insight into what the band felt during those years of struggle and eventual fame, great stuff.
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Barry, you’re very welcome. I’m glad you’re enjoying it and thanks for posting a comment.
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Thanks for sharing and I’m looking forward to reading it, having followed Quo since about 11 or 12 years old, I’m pushing 54 now. Their music and memories are now woven into the rich tapestry of my life! Thanks again!
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You’re welcome Darren and thanks for taking the time to comment, it’s much appreciated.
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Hi John ,
I have followed Quo since 1968 , when I first saw them at
Southend .
I am now73 & enjoy them just as much now as I did back then .
Rick was always my favourite & I still get upset when I think he is know longer with us .
All the best John
From Roger .
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Thanks Roger, appreciate hearing from you.
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Fabulous read – it was great to get candid views from the guys, RIP Rick we miss you mate.
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Thanks for taking the time to comment George.
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