Brian Locking, former member of The Shadows, died on October 8, 2020, aged 82. He is fondly remembered by choir members for his appearances with the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir.
Brian Locking, a native of Grantham, is best remembered as a member of the highly successful, chart-topping group, The Shadows.
A talented musician, a multi-instrumentalist and a virtuoso on the harmonica.
It seems a remarkable coincidence that the Denbigh and District Male Voice Choir should become acquainted with a member of the chart topping group.
Long after the heady days of frenetic activity with The Shadows, Brian chose the peace and tranquility of north Wales to retire.
However, Brian never stopped performing. He attended the Denbigh Folk Club on a regular basis.
Brian Locking Playing Harmonica
There he would perform regularly on guitar and harmonica. And always ready to offer advice.
It became evident that Brian had a yearning to play and appear in concert with a Male Voice Choir. If possible, a Welsh one.
Brian Locking and ‘Myfanwy’
One of the all time favourite songs in the Male Voice Choir repertoire has to be Joseph Parry’s evergreen ‘Myfanwy‘.
A mournful, yet melodious, story of unrequited love. Loved by audiences for well over a hundred years.
Furthermore, Brian knew this song and loved its beauty and structure. Moreover, he could play it on the harmonica.
In short, Brian turned up on our Choir Practice Night.
As a result, his plaintive and utterly haunting interpretation was enthralling.
He played the first verse as a harmonica solo. The full choir joined in for the second verse.
The chemistry worked. Above all, we needed an audience.
Brian then appeared with us at our next three concerts. On each occasion ‘Myfanwy’ was a resounding hit.
Unfortunately, we never got to record ‘Myfanwy’ with Brian Locking at any of the concerts.
But we did enjoy his musicianship and friendly disposition so much.
Additionally, Brian accepted an invitation to be our guest artiste at the choir’s annual dinner.
Brian Locking Entertains
He played the harmonica and bass guitar for well over an hour.
Pure nostalgia, as well as remembering the professionalism and popularity of Brian Locking.
So sad to hear that Brian ‘Liquorice’ Locking has passed away.
I remember him coming to our choir practice and telling us that, for many years, he had yearned to be able to perform the beautiful love song ‘Myfanwy’ in concert with a Welsh Male Voice Choir. The rehearsals were short as both he and the choir knew ‘Myfanwy’ so well.
The sheer enjoyment of performing ‘Myfanwy’ in concert with Brian was a tremendous experience on each occasion which I personally will never forget. It was such a privilege to perform with him.
Also, his entertainment at our Christmas Dinner in the Kinmel Manor was superb and left everyone just wanting to hear more from him.
I am sure that all members of the choir would wish to extend our sincere condolences to Brian’s family at this very sad time.
Paul Harrison
Chairman