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Thank you again to Roger and Paul for another fantastic and informative programme Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands featuring this week Harry Roy and his Band so very enjoyable. This series just gets better by the weeks Love Harry Roys Band and his music and dare I say it some very risky recordings but I loved them all. Keep up the good work you two, and hope that you are feeling a bit better this week Roger .
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Hello Brian,
Thanks for reminding us of that much more venerable ‘Good Morning’; anything written by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed has to be described that way.
Alas the ‘Good Morning’ heard earlier today is mere frippery in comparison. Composer unknown to me. Maybe it was one of those KPM Library tunes written for take-up within the media. Despite its more humble origin, the tune plus the lyrics applied to the TV ad have stuck. I suppose “crisp and full of fun” suggests a breakfast cereal or a snack rather than, say, an insurance company.
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Oh that’s an impressive nugget of Watery Wireless history Paul. The station was out at sea for — what was it? — fourteen years. On a boat!
The 1960s advertisement containing the sung version has revealed itself this evening. I won’t mention the product name. Well, I’ll disguise it. Here are the lyrics:
Good morning, good morning
The best to you each morning
Sunshine breakfast
Medlock’s Prawncakes
Crisp and full of sunI wonder if it’s time for a new set of lyrics…
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I found it at the back of my memory Andy, and even I have only limited access there. Fortunately Youtube has one of the renditions but sung as a solo and I don’t think it’s Mike. Search for ‘1967 Cornflakes Good Morning Advert’.
I’m reasonably sure there was a choral version, perhaps in another of their ad campaigns. So just a matter of spending far too many hours looking for that one.
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Hello Dave,
I’ve just been playing the cheery ‘Good Mornin’ from David Carroll’s LP ‘Let’s Dance, Dance, Dance’, as played by Andy Marriott yesterday. It’s call “Good Mornin’ ” presumably to differentiate it from the more familiar “Good Morning” from Babes in Arms and Singing in the Rain. It was written by Sam Coslow and according to Youtube, where you can hear a very nice version played by Tommy Dorsey & his Orchestra, dates to 1937 and was from a film called Mountain Music. Thanks to you I’ve been having an enjoyable time watching those old Corn Flakes adverts!
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That jolly instrumental tune came around again on Mr Marriott’s show — Good Morning by David Carroll’s Orchestra. I can’t place it but it’s always associated with the words “crisp and full of fun”. So I guess it was used in a TV advert, sung in the style of the Mike Sammes Singers. Anyone remember what the product was?
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Sundays are my favourite day on Serenade, and I was very sorry to hear that Roger was under the weather; with his gentle voice and extensive knowledge on Soft Folkus, Krissie Carpenter’s beautiful voice, Sing Something Simple – with a nostalgia overload…. I love it.
Wishing you well soon Roger. You were sorely missed 🤗🤒
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Saturday mornings on Serenade – there’s nowt better!
Starting with Ed’s gentle music selections and his breakfast buffet of poached eggs and wilted spinach (yum), then Steve’s oh so entertaining and eclectic mix of great (mainly) sixties music and now Jeff’s trademark dry (schoolboy!) humour…..it doesn’t get any better than this; thank you all!
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Good to know it’s not just me then Karen! I’m looking forward to tuning in to my two favourites again tomorrow morning (I need to know Ed’s breakfast tip, of course!) and as you so rightly say, listening to Steve is a real education.
I thought this kind of ‘grown up’ radio made by people with a passion was a thing of the past – until I discovered Serenade. Now I rarely listen to anything else!
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I discovered Serenade radio by accident when setting up an internet radio. – How refreshing to listen to nice, pleasant music.
I gave up with listening to the BBC music output a long time ago due to the fact that all the stations, apart from R3 and R4 broadcast “pop” music which is invariably noisy, heavy and raucous and very much the same on all BBC “pop” stations with rather silly presenters or disc jockeys who like to talk nonsense. Local radio is relatively amateurish with strange sounding presenters.
Keep up the standard, your presenters are clear sounding and have nice dictation reminiscent of what BBC presenters used to have and your music is spot on. -
Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands – Another brilliant programme in this current series , so well put together and so well presented. Some lovely recordings of The Maurice Winnick Band , its such a great series I am looking forward to the rest of the series Thank you Paul for writing and producing this and of course to Roger for presenting the programme . Well Done both.
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Hi David
Thanks for your lovely words.
Roger’s asked me to respond for both of us and say that it really is such a pleasure to be able to make programmes such as this, you’ll really not find them anywhere else these days!
Of course we’re both indented to Andy for agreeing to give us the airtime in the first place.
Stay tuned next week at the same time for a look at the life of Harry Roy – should be good…fingers crossed!
With my best wishes
Paul
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Heard John Hellings An Hour of Jazz months ago and it was rip-roaring, driving jazz. Tonight’s s show was softer and mellower with Giacomo Smith’s Festival 48 the stand-out for me. James Hudson’s The More I See You was a treat whilst remembering Dick Haymes’ definitive recording. Shirley Scott’s fabulous keyboard appeal was new to me unlike the lovely Lee Wiley whose version of Oh! Look at Me Now remains a forever favourite: “Got a new man/what a man/He’s no handsome Errol Flynn/I like his face/and his bank is Chase/Half a million dollars ain’t tin!”
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Hi Steve in Worcester. If you pull down the screen top right corner of screen you see a lot of icons etc. there’s a circle with solid dot in centre at the bottom Press for about 3 seconds and it says start recording. You’ll see a red dot. Don’t touch the microphone off as if you put that on it records all other sounds. The recording goes into your photos. Good luck.
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Someone once played me Eva Cassidy singing The Water Is Wide and You Take My Breath Away and I had to stop them playing any more. Her performances were so pure and captivating I was left emotionally wrecked. How she was overlooked during her lifetime belies belief.
I loved Roger Whittaker’s unexpectedly beguiling She Moved Through the Fair on tonight’s Soft Folkus and Katherine Priddy is surely now a star across the musical spectrum. Was that Jose Feliciano’s son singing High Flying Bird?
Hearing Jiggery Pokery made my week! Thank you, Roger. I was transported back to a joyful time working in a foreign language school with a bunch of Australians: (“Yeah, okay… good on yer mate, but enjoy it – it’ll be the last Test you win for a decade!”) -
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Hi Krissi a little bit of info re Adele Astaire she married into the Cavendish Family who amongst other famous landmarks live in Chatsworth House, well known stately home in Derbyshire. Not sure if that’s why she retired from dancing with Fred. Also, unrelated but JFK sister also married into the same family and her grave is in the estate cemetery.
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Hello Paul and Roger thank you for another lovely programme Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands just loving this series so far and this week what a lovely selection of recording by The Roy Fox Band and some great vocals by Peggy Dell , Mary Lee , Al Bowlly and Denny Dennis . My favourite singer has always been Al Bowlly but Denny Dennis comes a close second to me. There was also a singer who was a friend of mine called Jack O’Hagan and he recorded with Roy Fox and a favourite song of Jacks was For Sentimental Reasons which he actually sang in my house one day when he came to visit . Such Happy Memories This programme is so well put together and with great presentation .So Thank you Paul and Roger . So looking forward to the rest of the series .
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Hello David
I’m pleased you’re enjoying our new venture. It’s great fun putting it together and I’m hugely indebted to Paul for his enthusiasm and scholarship! It’s lovely when people enjoy what we do. I’m learning an awful lot about these band leaders myself, not least the subject of our next one in the series which, as Paul has mentioned elsewhere, is Maurice Winnick.
Thank you for listening – it’s a challenge going “head to head” with Celebrity Traitors so it’s good to know that you’re there!
Best wishes
Roger
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Bob Seeger and Nirvana on Soft Folkus? Any metalhead hoping to hear Eddie & the Hot Rods’ Get Out of Denver or “Here we are now – entertain us!” would be disappointed unless, like me, you found the UK’s Nirvana’s Tiny Goddess an absolute blast! Great to hear Randy Newman’s Louisiana 1927 but my favourite Sunday-morning song only really works, for me, when those rising strings flood up behind the singer to bolster that magnificent chorus of “Lou-WEE-siana!” But the best was left for last. Roger Harper is only a name in my NME Book of Rock and yet When an Old Cricketer Leaves the Crease played I was “hit amidships” by its end-of-an-era lamentation. Tremendous show, Roger.
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Hello David
Thank you for your kind comments. The Roy Harper song is extraordinary and the Grimethorpe Colliery Band make it extra special. It was from his album called HQ and, as a cricket fan, you probably know why that was the title. A much missed local radio presenter John Shaw said it was “too precious to be played more than once a year.” I’m not sure I especially agree with that but I do follow his lead and play it at the end of the County Cricket Season. His show, initially on Radio Trent and later on BBC Radio Nottingham was also on a Sunday evening. One version was called Here Be Dragons and another was simply called The Sunday Evening Programme abbreviated to S.E.P. or sometimes Someone Else’s Problem. Waffling on a bit, sorry,
Thank you for listening and taking the time to comment,
Roger
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Thank you for the reply, Roger
I completely agree with Mr Shaw that some music is too precious to overplay. Penny Lane is one of the high-water marks of 20th century popular culture but to hear it reduced to wallpaper muzak on a supermarket PA just depresses me.
You must know the fine work of The Duckworth Lewis Method and their cricket-themed songs. The Umpire appeals to the melancholy, Flatten the Hay a gorgeous nostalgic romance and, of course, Jiggery Pokery documents Shane Warne’s legendary ‘Ball of the Century’ to renowned batsman and gormandiser, Mike Gatting: “How such a ball could be bowled/ I don’t know but if you asked me/If it had been a cheese roll/it would never have got past me.”
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Hello Ian and Susan
Thanks for your message which I will make sure is passed on.
Johnny retired back in July, presenting his final show at the grand age of 89 after nearly six years of weekly broadcasts on Serenade Radio.
As the new custodian of Big Band Special I try to keep the spirit of the big bands alive and do so with the utmost respect for everything Johnny built.
I hope you’ll continue to tune in on Sundays at 6pm, you’ll be most welcome.
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Listening to Steve James on Saturday morning it was good to hear the original version of ‘Love Song’ performed by its composer Lesley Duncan. When there is whistling within a song, Serenade has now conditioned me to wonder if it was Mike Sammes. Unlikely in this case. As for the street sounds on this 1969 single version, I couldn’t help thinking of Peter Sellers’ Suddenly It’s Folk Song: “You may hear some traffics noise. Pay no attention”.
Thanks Steve, great song.
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Yes it was a good show tonight ( well this morning for me) wasnt it. Although im not sure my husband was all that joyous when I was singimg along to Walking back to happiness at 4.30. I was only saying to Johnny a week or so ago that I hadnt seen anything of you for a while and did he know if you were ok. So it was also great to wake up to see your comment this morning. Have a good weekend .
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Craig Douglas opened a new shop in Weston-super-Mare in the 1950s. Myself and my older sister were following right behind him and the crowd pushed us both forward into him. He turned and smiled nicely, accepting our apologies. We argued for years which of one of us had actually stood on Craig Douglas’s toes, like it was a claim to fame. (NB It was me, sis 😅)
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Thank you Paul and Roger for a lovely programme of Dance Bands this week being Ambrose and his Orchestra I am so looking forward to this series in the coming weeks . So well put together with some lovely recordings featured in ‘Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands’.
“Join ROGER WILLIAMS each week as he celebrates one of the outstanding names from the golden age of British popular music. He’ll tell the story behind the bandleaders, musicians and vocal stars — and play the memorable recordings that made them household names. A chance to rediscover the rich sound and remarkable history of Britain’s great dance-band era.
Thursday 24th Sept – Ambrose: The Man Who Made MayFair Swing
Written and produced by Paul Ruddock”
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Hello David
So pleased you enjoyed the first show in the series; tons more treats to come (I hope!)
This week we’ll be concentrating on the career of Roy Fox and future shows will tell the story of such luminaries as Joe Loss, Lew Stone, Henry Hall, Jack Hylton and Harry Roy.
As usual it’s a real pleasure and privilege to be working alongside Roger on these shows.
Do stay tuned!
Best wishes
Paul
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I’ve been feeling a little unwell, a bit under the weather. Then I realised the problem, I’d carelessly overdosed on world news. 😞
Quick as a flash the instant remedy came to mind. – A large dose of Serenade radio ! 😊
Andy Marriott works wonders with a little bit of 8.30 nonsense swiftly restoring my smile followed by hourly doses of the other presenters. Normal state of mind restored … wonderful – thank you SR team 😊 -
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Mark Steyn: Autumn Leaves…… (Song Of The Week)
Mark…. For me, the best version is by Yves Montand… There’s an excellent clip of him crooning away in a French dance hall, with many young couples dancing….. It’s a segment from “Parigi è sempre Parigi” (1951) a comedy film by Luciano Emmer produced in France/Italy. A lovely example of times past/times lost……
A.
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…oooh, Della Reece. She’s all woman! Benny Green played her ‘cabaret canonball’, Someday, a mere half a century ago and I’ve adored her since. Love the way she rolls those vowels and owns every song she sings. Such personality on record so I can only imagine how phenomenal she must have been for those sitting stage side at her nightclub performances. If only… Thank you, Ian Timms, for introducing me to Della singing Whatever Lola Wants – could have been written for her!
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To whoever is selecting the tunes for Morning Music: thank you! We had another lovely collection today, 6am to 7am. Light classical and… well I can’t think how to describe the type. Mood music? Posh test card music?
Extra points awarded for getting it all finished with one second to spare before the pips at 7.
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Hello David
I thought I’d replied to this a while ago, but obviously not! Sorry. I became a fan of Monsieur DuTronc when I was studying French A-Level. H seemed to me to be their version of Ray Davies with songs about everyday life written with his co-writer. I’ll plonk one or two more of his in the library at some time or another. I wonder if you know “Les Playboys”? That one’s fun.
Roger
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“720 in the Books” was just that, it was the 720th arrangement in the Jan Savitt Orchestra’s playbook. No one could think of a better name when they went to record the unnamed tune so it became “720 in the Books.” Glen Gray and the Casa Loma Orchestra’s recreation of Savitt’s 1939 recording is a swinger, but one difference is Gray’s version featured a trombone solo in place of Savitt’s vocalist, Bon Bon. Thanks for the great music this Saturday!
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I’m thoroughly enjoying The Dance Band Days, and so many old tunes are suddenly appearing in my head from nowhere.
MacNamara’s Band, Moonlight Bay – the memories are rushing in, and the old grey matter’s working overtime,
The wireless was such a huge part of my childhood, and my parents would sing along together. I can close my eyes and hear my Dad harmonising to Sing Something Simple even now. Such happy days.
I can also remember George Chisholm on the TV singing ‘Fanlight Fanny the Frowsy Nightclub Queen’ – as well as playing the trombone, and wiggling his eyebrows to the saucy parts – or am I dreaming?
I’ve Googled like mad, but can’t find a mention of him singing this anywhere.
My parents got their first TV around 1958 – I can remember it as if it was yesterday,
It was probably a good 8 to 10 years after, that my brother and I rolled around on the floor giggling to the cheeky words being sung by George.
But can I find any mention online of him singing F.F.T.F.N.C.Q?
Nope.
Can anyone help, please?-
Hi Terri,
George Chisholm! Such a talent, and apparently well-loved in the business. I wonder if the TV appearance was on The Good Old Days in 1968. Many editions of the show were scheduled fairly late — about 9.50pm so perhaps after your bed time in those years. But I see that the broadcast on Fri 8th March in that year was at 7.30pm. GC was a guest on that edition. It would be easy to imagine him doing the wiggly eyebrows on the Leeds Variety Theatre stage. Other artists appearing that week: Jack Douglas, and Chinese acrobat Li Suang — maybe enough info there to jog your memory?
George was also a regular on the Black and White Minstrel Show. But I wonder if that song was a bit too cheeky for the programme’s intended audience.
Hope you find the solution to your memory puzzler Terri.
Dave in London
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Dave in London,
Thank you! There’s every chance that the Food Old Days on 8th March was, indeed, the programme – and Jack Douglas ‘wey-hey-hey! certainly rings a bell. I think Fanlight Fanny’s saucepan lids upon her chest was more likely to be to the taste of the Good Old Days. It was many years later that I understood the more adult humour in the song.
This is real nostalgia overload for me…
We were also great B&W Minstrel fans too, and my maternal granddad used to pick up their old song sheets from a second-hand shop in Leytonstone.
Thanks a million. I really appreciate you helping out.
And I can still close my eyes and see GC wiggling his eyebrows over the saucepan lids.
Such innocent fun.
Best wishes and thanks again!
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Thank you Phil.,
I have an entire Sunday to myself – a rare thing these days indeed – so will do some more research while indulging in Serenade Radio – Sunday’s are my favourite radio day too.
It was definitely George Chisholm with his slightly bulgy eyes below his wiggling eyebrows – playing full-on to the TV camera.
Thank you for taking the time to answer. Enjoy a Serenade Sunday, too!
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Every time I hear Bob Dylan’s grating nasal whine of a voice or hear him butchering the harmonica yet again, I go and play something from Blood On the Tracks to remind myself what a blistering genius he was. Shawn Colvin’s cover of You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome’ was sensational. (Can I be forgiven for thinking it was Dolly Parton at first?) Joni Mitchell’s You’re My Thrill was a complete head f… that is, a rather unconventional reading of the classic song and Donovan’s Mellow Yellow is lost to me now since Jasper Carrott’s cover (“I’m just covered in gurgling zits…”) Strange how the same vowel sound but a couple of different letters can completely up-end your take on a song. I heard the fabulous Kim Carnes sing “After all these years love is still a lie/She waits on the other side,” when the line is ‘love is still alive.’
Having spent years trying to find the original Jake Thackray recording of Side By Side, I’m thrilled to finally have it on The Lost Archives labelled as Borders. It’s a song for our time, Roger. “We stand here side by side/We are so near and so divided…” But I go with your closer as well, of course. Really enjoyed this week’s Soft Folkus!-
Hello David
I’m pleased you enjoyed this week’s effort which was rather thrown together. There were several aspects of it I wasn’t entirely happy with. I’ll try harder this week. You’re right about Shawn Colvin and yes, she does sound a bit Dolly like on occasions. I don’t think I’m familiar with Side By Side and Jake Thackray – I shall perhaps seek it it out.
Thank you, as ever, for listening, your thoughtful comments and warning me about Jasper Carrott!
Roger
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Song of the Day (so far) for me is Bidin’ My Time on the Krissi Carpenter show. What on earth was that fabulous horned instrument that introduces the track and plays an entire verse before the singer enters? Like a bullfrog with laryngitis. I love the song’s opening line: “But I’m bidin’ my time/’cause that’s the kinda guy I’m.” Okay, it’s not Porter or Sondheim but it’s silly and delicious and gives me a giggle except when singers try to turn ‘I’m’ into ‘I am’ and I start chuntering. Although, ‘time’ is a one syllable word on a two-note phrase so maybe it’s understandable?
My Cherie Amour was a little wet for me when I lived for Stevie Wonder’s clavinet-heavy funky stuff as a teen but now I can hear how lovely – and moving – the song is. (“Maybe someday, you’ll see my face among the crowd…”) Such a shame those brilliant musicians and arrangers were never credited at the time. -
Loving the Manilow moment on your show Krissi Carpenter. My first ever concert at the albert Hall with my mum in 1982 I think was Barry and he was amazing. The song Could it be magic is still one of my favourites ever. And now you are playing my favourite voice since I was about 8 years old, Roger Whittaker. Definitely ticking all the right boxes for me today.
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Oh thank you Paul Ruddock for playing People Say we re in Love by Ray Conniff on tonight’s Big Band Special.
Actually this was a tune for a much loved request show on Sunday morning on the offshore radio station Radio Veronica in the 70s. And believe it or not, your closing tune by Ray Ellis also was a tune on Radio Veronica every day for a Dutch version of Music while you work. -
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I’ve waxed lyrical before about Steve James’ Late Night Extra show offering a magic carpet ride to those groovy hidden gems.
However I do so enjoy his morning weekend shows traveling back to those hazy, halcyon days.
He played That Happy Feeling by Bert Kaempfert, it really did bring back happy feelings probably from hearing it on the radio when I was about 5, but was it a theme tune to a radio or TV theme as it’s so familiar to me? -
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“The ghost army’s waiting for you…” I know a little bit about a lot of music but every week there’s a genuine surprise on Soft Folkus. Tonight Roger Williams played a song called The Invisible Woman by Peggy Seeger which blew me away! Wise, witty and heartwarming with the cherry on the cake for me – a middle-eight. Who is Peggy Seeger and is the rest of her rep’ this good? Hot damn!
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Hello David
It’s a cracking song isn’t it? Peggy is Pete Seeger’s half sister and she lives in the UK. She’s 91 and stands tall and proud. Her late husband Ewan MacColl wrote “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” for her. I met her once and told her I’d seen her and Ewan perform together in the 1960s. She fixed me with her piercing blue eyes and said “we’re not that old!” And inside, I suppose that’s true. I’ll pop another song of hers in the show first week in September.
Thank you for listening,
Roger
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Dance Band Days: Roger asked if ‘Bob A Job’ still existed. I remember, the yellow stickers with a big blue tick and ‘Job Done’ that you put in your front window but this will have been around the mid-1960s. I certainly can’t remember any instances of 5p jobs at our household post decimalisation.
Given inflation it would have to be 87.5p a job today according to the Bank of England inflation Calculator. My parents were always happy to support the Scouts*; however, I can’t help imagining the horrified looks the proposal of a Bob A Job scheme would elicit today!
* Until covid there was still a bi-annual gang show in my locality. -
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I was slightly distracted but think there was a question just now as to whether or not it was Jo Stafford with the Pied Pipers on the Johnny Mercer commercial recording of “My Sugar is So Refined.” The wonderful Jo had already left the Pied Pipers to head out on her solo career by this 1946 recording; instead, we have the also wonderful June Hutton with the Pied Pipers. We love June a lot here, too. Thanks for the great music this Sunday (Monday and Always, too) here at Serenade Radio!
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A cavalcade of classic Carolyn Leigh songs in On the Town this week but the one I enjoyed most was a newbie from Peter Pan sung by Mary Martin, (“I say, ding-dong!”) I Gotta Crow is only a minor piece but inexplicably joyous. It brought to mind I Feel Pretty from West Side Story. Mary’s delightful crowing at the fade reminded me of the annual Seagull Squawking Competition which I thought was in Devon this year but instead was held abroad. In Somerset.
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Barbara Heathcote on 17 October 2026
I’ve said it before and I say again. Jeff is a treasure. Absolutely brilliant programme. Songs from my teenage years and hilarious stories.
Terri on 17 October 2026
Ahhh, Bisto (best), Jeff.
Can’t be beaten.
Jumping on the gravy bandwagon here; unfortunately, I’d read the entire article before you mentioned to us this morning that we might not want to. 🤪
Great Brum accent, btw, accompanied by some great music.
Thank you!
Suzy on 17 October 2026
Hooray! I woke up at 3.09am and caught some of wonderful Johnny Mac (and Clifford T Ward 💕) before unfortunately zzzzing again. Darn. Must try harder next Saturday. 😴😄
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 17 October 2026
Early bird catches the worm, Suzy! Glad to have you on board for the best time of the day.
Next Saturday morn’s artists of the week: Gerry and The Pacemakers 🚢
Nancy on 17 October 2026
A Little Night Music is a great start to the weekend for me!
Karen on 16 October 2026
Thank you for another great Swingtime Paul Ruddock and especially for the magnificent Patricia Norman. We are still chuckling here.
Paul Ruddock - Swing Time on 17 October 2026
Thank you Karen, so pleased you enjoyed the show. I’m on the look out for some more of Patricia Norman’s “unique” performances – when I track ’em down you can bet I’ll be featuring them in future shows.
Glad to have given you a chuckle, that’s my job done!
David Small on 16 October 2026
Thank you again to Roger and Paul for another fantastic and informative programme Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands featuring this week Harry Roy and his Band so very enjoyable. This series just gets better by the weeks Love Harry Roys Band and his music and dare I say it some very risky recordings but I loved them all. Keep up the good work you two, and hope that you are feeling a bit better this week Roger .
Barbara Heathcote on 16 October 2026
Good Morning Andy. Great to hear the Purple People Eater again this morning. I obviously share the same great taste as the people who requested it. 😃
Dave in London on 14 October 2026
Hello Brian,
Thanks for reminding us of that much more venerable ‘Good Morning’; anything written by Nacio Herb Brown and Arthur Freed has to be described that way.
Alas the ‘Good Morning’ heard earlier today is mere frippery in comparison. Composer unknown to me. Maybe it was one of those KPM Library tunes written for take-up within the media. Despite its more humble origin, the tune plus the lyrics applied to the TV ad have stuck. I suppose “crisp and full of fun” suggests a breakfast cereal or a snack rather than, say, an insurance company.
Paul Ruddock on 14 October 2026
Hello Dave
I’m pretty sure the version of Good Morning by David Carroll and his Orchestra which Marriott played this morning was used as the theme music for the breakfast show on the renowned Dutch offshore station ‘Radio Veronica’ from the early 60’s onwards.
Dave in London on 14 October 2026
Oh that’s an impressive nugget of Watery Wireless history Paul. The station was out at sea for — what was it? — fourteen years. On a boat!
The 1960s advertisement containing the sung version has revealed itself this evening. I won’t mention the product name. Well, I’ll disguise it. Here are the lyrics:
Good morning, good morning
The best to you each morning
Sunshine breakfast
Medlock’s Prawncakes
Crisp and full of sun
I wonder if it’s time for a new set of lyrics…
Andy Marriott, Station Manager on 14 October 2026
Hi Dave,
Where did you find the jingle? I’d like to hear it, you said it might be Mike Sammes Singers… I’m a big fan!
Thanks,
AM.
Dave in London on 14 October 2026
I found it at the back of my memory Andy, and even I have only limited access there. Fortunately Youtube has one of the renditions but sung as a solo and I don’t think it’s Mike. Search for ‘1967 Cornflakes Good Morning Advert’.
I’m reasonably sure there was a choral version, perhaps in another of their ad campaigns. So just a matter of spending far too many hours looking for that one.
Neil Hewitt on 15 October 2026
Hello Dave,
I’ve just been playing the cheery ‘Good Mornin’ from David Carroll’s LP ‘Let’s Dance, Dance, Dance’, as played by Andy Marriott yesterday. It’s call “Good Mornin’ ” presumably to differentiate it from the more familiar “Good Morning” from Babes in Arms and Singing in the Rain. It was written by Sam Coslow and according to Youtube, where you can hear a very nice version played by Tommy Dorsey & his Orchestra, dates to 1937 and was from a film called Mountain Music. Thanks to you I’ve been having an enjoyable time watching those old Corn Flakes adverts!
Dave in London on 16 October 2026
Wow, a Tommy Dorsey connection too. That’s classy. Isn’t it remarkable how much nourishing juice can be squeezed from a song’s history. Especially when the sixties instrumental remake could have passed us by unnoticed. Thanks to Andy, Neil, Paul and Brian for help with the squeezing.
Dave in London on 14 October 2026
That jolly instrumental tune came around again on Mr Marriott’s show — Good Morning by David Carroll’s Orchestra. I can’t place it but it’s always associated with the words “crisp and full of fun”. So I guess it was used in a TV advert, sung in the style of the Mike Sammes Singers. Anyone remember what the product was?
Brian Reynolds on 14 October 2026
The song ‘Good Morning’ came from the 1939 film ‘Babes in Arms’ and was also used in ‘Singing in the Rain’ (1952) – so it’s older than you think.
Andy Grahamme on 13 October 2026
Andy Marriott as always sounding bright and entertaining in the morning…and playing some terrific tunes too!…Gordon Macrae…Pet Clark..Ray Conn and Val Doonican today an absolute joy!!….great start to these autumnal days
Ian Hall on 11 October 2026
Sorry to hear that Roger Williams is under the weather. We missed his company tonight. Hope he’s better soon.
David on 11 October 2026
I couldn’t agree more. Roger’s gentle, mellifluous tones – and wonderful choice of music – are perfect for radio and a soothing balm before the rigours of the week begin. Get well soon, Roger. May the apples fall your side of the fence.
Terri on 12 October 2026
Sundays are my favourite day on Serenade, and I was very sorry to hear that Roger was under the weather; with his gentle voice and extensive knowledge on Soft Folkus, Krissie Carpenter’s beautiful voice, Sing Something Simple – with a nostalgia overload…. I love it.
Wishing you well soon Roger. You were sorely missed 🤗🤒
Martyn Bassey on 10 October 2026
Always enjoy A Little Night Music. Great to hear a few Paul Simon songs that don’t get played that often on the radio.
Many thanks Johnny Mac 👍
Clive Davison on 10 October 2026
Saturday mornings on Serenade – there’s nowt better!
Starting with Ed’s gentle music selections and his breakfast buffet of poached eggs and wilted spinach (yum), then Steve’s oh so entertaining and eclectic mix of great (mainly) sixties music and now Jeff’s trademark dry (schoolboy!) humour…..it doesn’t get any better than this; thank you all!
Karen on 10 October 2026
I couldn’t agree more Clive . Breakfast with Ed then on to the 60s. I didnt think i even liked 60s music, but steve is educating me well on that score.
Clive Davison on 10 October 2026
Good to know it’s not just me then Karen! I’m looking forward to tuning in to my two favourites again tomorrow morning (I need to know Ed’s breakfast tip, of course!) and as you so rightly say, listening to Steve is a real education.
I thought this kind of ‘grown up’ radio made by people with a passion was a thing of the past – until I discovered Serenade. Now I rarely listen to anything else!
Nancy on 10 October 2026
Enjoyed the birthday tributes on A Little Night Music! I share my birthday with Paul Simon and the wonderful Nana Mouskouri. Great show Johnny Mac!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 10 October 2026
And many happy returns, Nancy, for next Tuesday! Next week, I’ll be celebrating the music of The Carpenters, as Richard turns 80.
David Illingworth on 9 October 2026
I discovered Serenade radio by accident when setting up an internet radio. – How refreshing to listen to nice, pleasant music.
I gave up with listening to the BBC music output a long time ago due to the fact that all the stations, apart from R3 and R4 broadcast “pop” music which is invariably noisy, heavy and raucous and very much the same on all BBC “pop” stations with rather silly presenters or disc jockeys who like to talk nonsense. Local radio is relatively amateurish with strange sounding presenters.
Keep up the standard, your presenters are clear sounding and have nice dictation reminiscent of what BBC presenters used to have and your music is spot on.
David Small on 9 October 2026
Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands – Another brilliant programme in this current series , so well put together and so well presented. Some lovely recordings of The Maurice Winnick Band , its such a great series I am looking forward to the rest of the series Thank you Paul for writing and producing this and of course to Roger for presenting the programme . Well Done both.
Paul Ruddock on 9 October 2026
Hi David
Thanks for your lovely words.
Roger’s asked me to respond for both of us and say that it really is such a pleasure to be able to make programmes such as this, you’ll really not find them anywhere else these days!
Of course we’re both indented to Andy for agreeing to give us the airtime in the first place.
Stay tuned next week at the same time for a look at the life of Harry Roy – should be good…fingers crossed!
With my best wishes
Paul
Barbara Heathcote on 8 October 2026
Hi Ian. Thank you for playing Wayne Newton. I think Games that Lovers Play is my favourite of all his songs.
David on 7 October 2026
Heard John Hellings An Hour of Jazz months ago and it was rip-roaring, driving jazz. Tonight’s s show was softer and mellower with Giacomo Smith’s Festival 48 the stand-out for me. James Hudson’s The More I See You was a treat whilst remembering Dick Haymes’ definitive recording. Shirley Scott’s fabulous keyboard appeal was new to me unlike the lovely Lee Wiley whose version of Oh! Look at Me Now remains a forever favourite: “Got a new man/what a man/He’s no handsome Errol Flynn/I like his face/and his bank is Chase/Half a million dollars ain’t tin!”
HildeQ on 7 October 2026
Hello!
Is it possible to get the impeccable text/mp3 about Serenade Radio? ( “… for those who still dress for dinner”, “… still believe in… “).
It’s really brilliant!
Barbara Heathcote on 5 October 2026
Hi Steve in Worcester. If you pull down the screen top right corner of screen you see a lot of icons etc. there’s a circle with solid dot in centre at the bottom Press for about 3 seconds and it says start recording. You’ll see a red dot. Don’t touch the microphone off as if you put that on it records all other sounds. The recording goes into your photos. Good luck.
Steve in Worcs. on 5 October 2026
Many thanks, Barbara!
I just have to find out how to schedule record now, probably need a paid app for that!
Barbara Heathcote on 5 October 2026
Hi Steve. I was just thinking of an individual programme but expect you need to self start and stop.
Don’t think able to set a timer for individual programmes.
Nick Hingley on 6 October 2026
Audacity can do timer record. Free and available for Windows, Mac & Linux. PC has to be left running to do it.
Steve in Worcs. on 6 October 2026
Thanks, Nick! 😁
Andy Marriott on 6 October 2026
No more talk of piracy please!
Thank you.
David on 4 October 2026
Someone once played me Eva Cassidy singing The Water Is Wide and You Take My Breath Away and I had to stop them playing any more. Her performances were so pure and captivating I was left emotionally wrecked. How she was overlooked during her lifetime belies belief.
I loved Roger Whittaker’s unexpectedly beguiling She Moved Through the Fair on tonight’s Soft Folkus and Katherine Priddy is surely now a star across the musical spectrum. Was that Jose Feliciano’s son singing High Flying Bird?
Hearing Jiggery Pokery made my week! Thank you, Roger. I was transported back to a joyful time working in a foreign language school with a bunch of Australians: (“Yeah, okay… good on yer mate, but enjoy it – it’ll be the last Test you win for a decade!”)
David on 4 October 2026
I should have mentioned that time I was teaching was in August, 2005…
Barbara Heathcote on 4 October 2026
Great Big Band Special tonight Paul. I defy anyone not to have been foot tapping away. Loved the Dave Pell Orchestra.
Paul Ruddock - Big Band Special on 5 October 2026
Hello Barbara
Thanks for tuning my way and glad to have got those feet tapping once more – I feel that should be added to my ‘job’ description here! I’ll ask Marriott…….😉
Paul
Barbara Heathcote on 5 October 2026
Hi Paul. Good luck with that. 🤣
Ian Simmonds on 4 October 2026
Where else could you hear the legendary David Ackles? Keep up the good work Roger!
Barbara Heathcote on 4 October 2026
Hi Krissi a little bit of info re Adele Astaire she married into the Cavendish Family who amongst other famous landmarks live in Chatsworth House, well known stately home in Derbyshire. Not sure if that’s why she retired from dancing with Fred. Also, unrelated but JFK sister also married into the same family and her grave is in the estate cemetery.
Krissi on 4 October 2026
Hi Barbara, really good to hear from you. Thank you for taking the time to write – AND for all the information. I didn’t know that. Every day is a school day isn’t it ?
Best wishes,
Andy Grahamme on 3 October 2026
An absolutley smashing programme today from Stuart Linnell…thankyou Stuart…so many great singers and songs…Robert Goulet..Ronnie Hilton..Ronnie Carroll…Mel Torme and loved Sinatra’s Misty!! I’m sure a lot of thought and work went into the preparation…sheer class!!
Stuart Linnell on 3 October 2026
Thank you so much Andy. Your comments are truly appreciated. I really enjoy putting the show together each week so it’s lovely to learn that you enjoyed it.
David Small on 2 October 2026
Hello Paul and Roger thank you for another lovely programme Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands just loving this series so far and this week what a lovely selection of recording by The Roy Fox Band and some great vocals by Peggy Dell , Mary Lee , Al Bowlly and Denny Dennis . My favourite singer has always been Al Bowlly but Denny Dennis comes a close second to me. There was also a singer who was a friend of mine called Jack O’Hagan and he recorded with Roy Fox and a favourite song of Jacks was For Sentimental Reasons which he actually sang in my house one day when he came to visit . Such Happy Memories This programme is so well put together and with great presentation .So Thank you Paul and Roger . So looking forward to the rest of the series .
Roger Williams on 2 October 2026
Hello David
I’m pleased you’re enjoying our new venture. It’s great fun putting it together and I’m hugely indebted to Paul for his enthusiasm and scholarship! It’s lovely when people enjoy what we do. I’m learning an awful lot about these band leaders myself, not least the subject of our next one in the series which, as Paul has mentioned elsewhere, is Maurice Winnick.
Thank you for listening – it’s a challenge going “head to head” with Celebrity Traitors so it’s good to know that you’re there!
Best wishes
Roger
Barbara Heathcote on 29 September 2026
Andy I do wish your programme was still repeated, just caught the end of Sophia Loren and Peter Sellors but then Vic singing Younger than Springtime was fabulous.
Brian Bunn on 3 October 2026
Agreed. I can’t listen to Andy’s show some mornings and really miss it repeated at 19:00 ☹️ Also a repeat of Music While You Work would be brilliant 🤩
Barbara Heathcote on 3 October 2026
Wouldn’t it be great if some clever tech person worked out how to do the equivalent of a plus 1.
Dave in London on 3 October 2026
Hi Barbara,
If I understand the UK’s rules on radio stations (broadcast or streamed) playing music, a +1 service would count as a separate station thus requiring another licence payment to the appropriate bodies.
Steve in Worcs. on 3 October 2026
That is my understanding also, Dave.
And I seem to remember Andy replying to someone on here asking if a “Listen Again” feature could be provided, that that wouldn’t be possible with the current licence.
Barbara Heathcote on 3 October 2026
Thanks Dave. I suppose there has got to be rules and regulations. I have just worked out to record it on IPad whilst I’m out and can listen later.
Dave in London on 3 October 2026
Well done on setting up the recording, Barbara. May I wish you happy postponed gratification!
Steve in Worcs. on 5 October 2026
Hi Barbara,
What great news! As I have an iPad, may I be so bold as to ask how you managed that, I’ve been looking for a while, and I missed Paul’s programme on Friday as I couldn’t turn down an invite from friends for a Himalayan Chicken curry. 🥴
Barbara Heathcote on 5 October 2026
Hi Steve I have sent you a message but I did a separate message not a direct reply.
Edgar on 5 October 2026
I wish there was something like TiVo for radio. Mr. Marriott comes on in the middle of the night in the States.
Barbara Heathcote on 5 October 2026
Hi Edgar. I think, as it’s been explained to me it’s a matter of licences and I imagine cost, being an independent radio station
David on 27 September 2026
Bob Seeger and Nirvana on Soft Folkus? Any metalhead hoping to hear Eddie & the Hot Rods’ Get Out of Denver or “Here we are now – entertain us!” would be disappointed unless, like me, you found the UK’s Nirvana’s Tiny Goddess an absolute blast! Great to hear Randy Newman’s Louisiana 1927 but my favourite Sunday-morning song only really works, for me, when those rising strings flood up behind the singer to bolster that magnificent chorus of “Lou-WEE-siana!” But the best was left for last. Roger Harper is only a name in my NME Book of Rock and yet When an Old Cricketer Leaves the Crease played I was “hit amidships” by its end-of-an-era lamentation. Tremendous show, Roger.
Roger Williams on 28 September 2026
Hello David
Thank you for your kind comments. The Roy Harper song is extraordinary and the Grimethorpe Colliery Band make it extra special. It was from his album called HQ and, as a cricket fan, you probably know why that was the title. A much missed local radio presenter John Shaw said it was “too precious to be played more than once a year.” I’m not sure I especially agree with that but I do follow his lead and play it at the end of the County Cricket Season. His show, initially on Radio Trent and later on BBC Radio Nottingham was also on a Sunday evening. One version was called Here Be Dragons and another was simply called The Sunday Evening Programme abbreviated to S.E.P. or sometimes Someone Else’s Problem. Waffling on a bit, sorry,
Thank you for listening and taking the time to comment,
Roger
David on 28 September 2026
Thank you for the reply, Roger
I completely agree with Mr Shaw that some music is too precious to overplay. Penny Lane is one of the high-water marks of 20th century popular culture but to hear it reduced to wallpaper muzak on a supermarket PA just depresses me.
You must know the fine work of The Duckworth Lewis Method and their cricket-themed songs. The Umpire appeals to the melancholy, Flatten the Hay a gorgeous nostalgic romance and, of course, Jiggery Pokery documents Shane Warne’s legendary ‘Ball of the Century’ to renowned batsman and gormandiser, Mike Gatting: “How such a ball could be bowled/ I don’t know but if you asked me/If it had been a cheese roll/it would never have got past me.”
Ian Hall on 27 September 2026
Hi, I’ve just tuned in to discover that Johnny Bearling has retired!
Missed his retirement but just wanted to say how much we enjoyed his Big Band show and his unique presentation. We’ll miss him.
If you could pass on our thanks we’d be grateful. Ian & Susan Hall
Paul Ruddock - Big Band Special on 27 September 2026
Hello Ian and Susan
Thanks for your message which I will make sure is passed on.
Johnny retired back in July, presenting his final show at the grand age of 89 after nearly six years of weekly broadcasts on Serenade Radio.
As the new custodian of Big Band Special I try to keep the spirit of the big bands alive and do so with the utmost respect for everything Johnny built.
I hope you’ll continue to tune in on Sundays at 6pm, you’ll be most welcome.
Ian Hall on 27 September 2026
Hi Paul
Thanks for taking the time and trouble to reply. We shall certainly listen in to your show! Good luck for the future.
Malcolm Scott on 27 September 2026
Thanks Ed! Lovely morning, as always! You may keep the leftover Chinese, just about to start on Croque Madame for brekky! 😂
Dave in London on 26 September 2026
Listening to Steve James on Saturday morning it was good to hear the original version of ‘Love Song’ performed by its composer Lesley Duncan. When there is whistling within a song, Serenade has now conditioned me to wonder if it was Mike Sammes. Unlikely in this case. As for the street sounds on this 1969 single version, I couldn’t help thinking of Peter Sellers’ Suddenly It’s Folk Song: “You may hear some traffics noise. Pay no attention”.
Thanks Steve, great song.
Barbara Heathcote on 26 September 2026
Hear Hear Ladies. Always enjoy Johnny Mac. one of these days i will manage to guess the right year. Usually a year out either side. Helen Shapiro was a favourite of mine as a teenager.
Nancy on 26 September 2026
Helen Shapiro is a new-to-me artist. I enjoy SR for introducing me to music I didn’t grow up with but now appreciate in my, ahem, seasoned years. And Barbara, you’ve given me a new look at the wonderful Vic Damone!
Barbara Heathcote on 26 September 2026
Hi Nancy. I’m well seasoned 😂. My first heartthrob was Ronnie Hilton, him and Denis Lotis. Ronnie Carrol were some of the UK crooners of the time. But it was Terry Wogan who started me listening to Vic Damone more. Love him. Yes Serenade Radio covers all genres and the presenters are fabulous.
Brian Bunn on 3 October 2026
Helen Shapiro had an amazing voice, check out her songs “Tell me what he said”, “You don’t know”, “Walking back to happiness”, “Kiss and run” Recorded when she was a teenager !
Nancy on 3 October 2026
Thank you Brian – will do!
Nancy on 26 September 2026
Johnny Mac’s program hit all the right notes tonight! Thank you for a tuneful evening of music Johnny🎵
Karen on 26 September 2026
Yes it was a good show tonight ( well this morning for me) wasnt it. Although im not sure my husband was all that joyous when I was singimg along to Walking back to happiness at 4.30. I was only saying to Johnny a week or so ago that I hadnt seen anything of you for a while and did he know if you were ok. So it was also great to wake up to see your comment this morning. Have a good weekend .
Nancy on 26 September 2026
Thank you for the kind mention Karen❤️
You have a good weekend too!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 26 September 2026
Thank you, both! And a happy 80th for Monday to Helen Shapiro.
I was recently watching the 1962 movie, “It’s Trad, Dad”, which starred Helen, Craig Douglas, who sadly left us recently, and my radio hero, Alan “Fluff” Freeman. What a line-up!
Suzy on 27 September 2026
Craig Douglas opened a new shop in Weston-super-Mare in the 1950s. Myself and my older sister were following right behind him and the crowd pushed us both forward into him. He turned and smiled nicely, accepting our apologies. We argued for years which of one of us had actually stood on Craig Douglas’s toes, like it was a claim to fame. (NB It was me, sis 😅)
David Small on 25 September 2026
Thank you Paul and Roger for a lovely programme of Dance Bands this week being Ambrose and his Orchestra I am so looking forward to this series in the coming weeks . So well put together with some lovely recordings featured in ‘Spotlight on the Great British Dance Bands’.
“Join ROGER WILLIAMS each week as he celebrates one of the outstanding names from the golden age of British popular music. He’ll tell the story behind the bandleaders, musicians and vocal stars — and play the memorable recordings that made them household names. A chance to rediscover the rich sound and remarkable history of Britain’s great dance-band era.
Thursday 24th Sept – Ambrose: The Man Who Made MayFair Swing
Written and produced by Paul Ruddock”
Paul Ruddock on 28 September 2026
Hello David
So pleased you enjoyed the first show in the series; tons more treats to come (I hope!)
This week we’ll be concentrating on the career of Roy Fox and future shows will tell the story of such luminaries as Joe Loss, Lew Stone, Henry Hall, Jack Hylton and Harry Roy.
As usual it’s a real pleasure and privilege to be working alongside Roger on these shows.
Do stay tuned!
Best wishes
Paul
Jackie Newark on 24 September 2026
Love this week’s Album of the Week – best one for ages in my humble opinion.
Edgar on 22 September 2026
My third grade class did Hawaiian dances for an audience. I didn’t dance but I was the person on stage getting the poi ready. One of the songs the other kids danced to was “The Hukilau Song”.
Barbara Heathcote on 22 September 2026
Well they say every days a school day. I’ve seen The Sound of Music in cinemas and on tv about 20 times. Never knew that Peggy Woods voice was dubbed by Margery Mackay until Ian just said. . I knew Christopher Plummer’s voice was dubbed. Mind you just to look at him was enough 🥰
Sandra Grant on 22 September 2026
I’ve been feeling a little unwell, a bit under the weather. Then I realised the problem, I’d carelessly overdosed on world news. 😞
Quick as a flash the instant remedy came to mind. – A large dose of Serenade radio ! 😊
Andy Marriott works wonders with a little bit of 8.30 nonsense swiftly restoring my smile followed by hourly doses of the other presenters. Normal state of mind restored … wonderful – thank you SR team 😊
Frank Harrigan on 21 September 2026
John Hellings – That had to be Helen O’Connell who sang All of Me, with Jimmy Dorsey, in 1939.
Armando Loni on 20 September 2026
Mark Steyn: Autumn Leaves…… (Song Of The Week)
Mark…. For me, the best version is by Yves Montand… There’s an excellent clip of him crooning away in a French dance hall, with many young couples dancing….. It’s a segment from “Parigi è sempre Parigi” (1951) a comedy film by Luciano Emmer produced in France/Italy. A lovely example of times past/times lost……
A.
Barbara Heathcote on 19 September 2026
Hi Stuart, thank you for playing our Vic. Yes there’s many fans of his listening to Serenade Radio. Saturday started off with Johnny Mac. Was 1 year out of the first mystery year. Love Jeff. I obviously need to change my paper.😂
Jonathan Shirley on 19 September 2026
There’s something wonderfully reassuring about settling down with Paul and Swing Time on a Friday evening — it’s like spending an hour in the company of a very knowledgeable friend who happens to have an extraordinary record collection. A real treat for anyone who loves swing, big bands 😎
Paul Ruddock - Swing Time on 20 September 2026
Hi Jonathan
Thank you for such kind and humbling words. I’m glad to know you’re enjoying the show as much as I do putting it together – it’s a real labour of love for me.
With my best wishes; stay tuned!
Paul
David on 15 September 2026
…oooh, Della Reece. She’s all woman! Benny Green played her ‘cabaret canonball’, Someday, a mere half a century ago and I’ve adored her since. Love the way she rolls those vowels and owns every song she sings. Such personality on record so I can only imagine how phenomenal she must have been for those sitting stage side at her nightclub performances. If only… Thank you, Ian Timms, for introducing me to Della singing Whatever Lola Wants – could have been written for her!
Dave in London on 14 September 2026
To whoever is selecting the tunes for Morning Music: thank you! We had another lovely collection today, 6am to 7am. Light classical and… well I can’t think how to describe the type. Mood music? Posh test card music?
Extra points awarded for getting it all finished with one second to spare before the pips at 7.
Richard Mauzer on 14 September 2026
Just LOVE the station, EVERYTHING about it, KUDOS from here in the STATES, would NOT leave home without it…keeps me company EVERY WHERE I go!
David on 13 September 2026
I’ve discovered lots of fabulous new music on Soft Folkus but I have to say Jacques Dutronc’s Il Est Cinq Heures, Paris S’eveille is a mind-blower quite unlike anything else. How would it sound alongside Eleanor Shanley’s gorgeous Sunday Morning, Holloway Road?
Roger Williams on 21 September 2026
Hello David
I thought I’d replied to this a while ago, but obviously not! Sorry. I became a fan of Monsieur DuTronc when I was studying French A-Level. H seemed to me to be their version of Ray Davies with songs about everyday life written with his co-writer. I’ll plonk one or two more of his in the library at some time or another. I wonder if you know “Les Playboys”? That one’s fun.
Roger
Randall Riley on 12 September 2026
“720 in the Books” was just that, it was the 720th arrangement in the Jan Savitt Orchestra’s playbook. No one could think of a better name when they went to record the unnamed tune so it became “720 in the Books.” Glen Gray and the Casa Loma Orchestra’s recreation of Savitt’s 1939 recording is a swinger, but one difference is Gray’s version featured a trombone solo in place of Savitt’s vocalist, Bon Bon. Thanks for the great music this Saturday!
Barbara Heathcote on 11 September 2026
So we’re now nearing the end of the second time playing Vic Damone The Lively Ones as Album of the Week. 😞 It’s impossible to have a favourite song as all have been absolutely brilliant. Thank you.
Terri on 7 September 2026
I’m thoroughly enjoying The Dance Band Days, and so many old tunes are suddenly appearing in my head from nowhere.
MacNamara’s Band, Moonlight Bay – the memories are rushing in, and the old grey matter’s working overtime,
The wireless was such a huge part of my childhood, and my parents would sing along together. I can close my eyes and hear my Dad harmonising to Sing Something Simple even now. Such happy days.
I can also remember George Chisholm on the TV singing ‘Fanlight Fanny the Frowsy Nightclub Queen’ – as well as playing the trombone, and wiggling his eyebrows to the saucy parts – or am I dreaming?
I’ve Googled like mad, but can’t find a mention of him singing this anywhere.
My parents got their first TV around 1958 – I can remember it as if it was yesterday,
It was probably a good 8 to 10 years after, that my brother and I rolled around on the floor giggling to the cheeky words being sung by George.
But can I find any mention online of him singing F.F.T.F.N.C.Q?
Nope.
Can anyone help, please?
Dave in London on 7 September 2026
Hi Terri,
George Chisholm! Such a talent, and apparently well-loved in the business. I wonder if the TV appearance was on The Good Old Days in 1968. Many editions of the show were scheduled fairly late — about 9.50pm so perhaps after your bed time in those years. But I see that the broadcast on Fri 8th March in that year was at 7.30pm. GC was a guest on that edition. It would be easy to imagine him doing the wiggly eyebrows on the Leeds Variety Theatre stage. Other artists appearing that week: Jack Douglas, and Chinese acrobat Li Suang — maybe enough info there to jog your memory?
George was also a regular on the Black and White Minstrel Show. But I wonder if that song was a bit too cheeky for the programme’s intended audience.
Hope you find the solution to your memory puzzler Terri.
Dave in London
Terri on 8 September 2026
Dave in London,
Thank you! There’s every chance that the Food Old Days on 8th March was, indeed, the programme – and Jack Douglas ‘wey-hey-hey! certainly rings a bell. I think Fanlight Fanny’s saucepan lids upon her chest was more likely to be to the taste of the Good Old Days. It was many years later that I understood the more adult humour in the song.
This is real nostalgia overload for me…
We were also great B&W Minstrel fans too, and my maternal granddad used to pick up their old song sheets from a second-hand shop in Leytonstone.
Thanks a million. I really appreciate you helping out.
And I can still close my eyes and see GC wiggling his eyebrows over the saucepan lids.
Such innocent fun.
Best wishes and thanks again!
Karen on 8 September 2026
There is a version of Fanlight Fanny on Spotify by Clinton Ford and The George Chisholm All Stars. Could that be it?
Terri on 8 September 2026
Thank you Karen.
I haven’t a clue how Spotify works – do I have to wind it up? 😉
I’d found the Clinton Ford version on YouTube but didn’t see good ol’ GC mentioned.
I will have a play and see id I can get Spotify to work for me. Thanks a million 🙏🏻
Karen on 8 September 2026
Hi Terri
I did a google search and it told me it was in Spotify and amazingly as I dont have Spotify it allowed me to play it! I remember GC as a cheeky chappie too
Phil C on 12 September 2026
If this is any help- Clinton Ford recorded FFTFNCQ with the George Chisholm All Stars. Also I remember seeing George Melly do the song on TV sometime. Perhaps you’ve got your Georges mixed up ?
Terri on 13 September 2026
Thank you Phil.,
I have an entire Sunday to myself – a rare thing these days indeed – so will do some more research while indulging in Serenade Radio – Sunday’s are my favourite radio day too.
It was definitely George Chisholm with his slightly bulgy eyes below his wiggling eyebrows – playing full-on to the TV camera.
Thank you for taking the time to answer. Enjoy a Serenade Sunday, too!
Roger Williams on 21 September 2026
Hello Terri
Delighted you’re enjoying Dance Band Days. George Chisolm was a very comical man – a goon like sense of humour. I interviewed him a VERY long time ago for the student radio station in Liverpool. Great guy. I’m sure you’re right about FF! Right up his street.
Roger
Martyn Bassey on 7 September 2026
Wonderful edition of Soft Folkus once again. The three Ian Tyson songs were fabulous. Really enjoyed Judy Collins version of Someday Soon, and also the tracks by Herding Cats, Pollyanna, Yvonne Lyon, and the superb Clifford T Ward.
Many thanks Roger.
Roger Williams on 21 September 2026
Hello Martyn
Way behind in replying to comments. Delighted your enjoying songs not just by the well known artists like Judy Collins and Clifford T Ward but also the musicians that aren’t everyday names too.
Best wishes and thanks for listening.
Roger
Barbara Heathcote on 7 September 2026
Just listening to Frank Ifield singing Sweet Memories, I know we always associate him with yodelling but this song is just lovely.
Barbara Heathcote on 6 September 2026
Hi Kevin. Well you’ve just made my week and all Vic Damone Fans. Thank you.
Kevin on 6 September 2026
Hi Barbara, I knew you’d be very pleased with this week’s album of the week. Enjoy, and thanks for listening!
David on 6 September 2026
Every time I hear Bob Dylan’s grating nasal whine of a voice or hear him butchering the harmonica yet again, I go and play something from Blood On the Tracks to remind myself what a blistering genius he was. Shawn Colvin’s cover of You’re Gonna Make Me Lonesome’ was sensational. (Can I be forgiven for thinking it was Dolly Parton at first?) Joni Mitchell’s You’re My Thrill was a complete head f… that is, a rather unconventional reading of the classic song and Donovan’s Mellow Yellow is lost to me now since Jasper Carrott’s cover (“I’m just covered in gurgling zits…”) Strange how the same vowel sound but a couple of different letters can completely up-end your take on a song. I heard the fabulous Kim Carnes sing “After all these years love is still a lie/She waits on the other side,” when the line is ‘love is still alive.’
Having spent years trying to find the original Jake Thackray recording of Side By Side, I’m thrilled to finally have it on The Lost Archives labelled as Borders. It’s a song for our time, Roger. “We stand here side by side/We are so near and so divided…” But I go with your closer as well, of course. Really enjoyed this week’s Soft Folkus!
Roger Williams on 7 September 2026
Hello David
I’m pleased you enjoyed this week’s effort which was rather thrown together. There were several aspects of it I wasn’t entirely happy with. I’ll try harder this week. You’re right about Shawn Colvin and yes, she does sound a bit Dolly like on occasions. I don’t think I’m familiar with Side By Side and Jake Thackray – I shall perhaps seek it it out.
Thank you, as ever, for listening, your thoughtful comments and warning me about Jasper Carrott!
Roger
Armando Loni on 6 September 2026
Probably not the first to mention this, but the continuity announcers are absolutely great!!
David on 6 September 2026
Song of the Day (so far) for me is Bidin’ My Time on the Krissi Carpenter show. What on earth was that fabulous horned instrument that introduces the track and plays an entire verse before the singer enters? Like a bullfrog with laryngitis. I love the song’s opening line: “But I’m bidin’ my time/’cause that’s the kinda guy I’m.” Okay, it’s not Porter or Sondheim but it’s silly and delicious and gives me a giggle except when singers try to turn ‘I’m’ into ‘I am’ and I start chuntering. Although, ‘time’ is a one syllable word on a two-note phrase so maybe it’s understandable?
My Cherie Amour was a little wet for me when I lived for Stevie Wonder’s clavinet-heavy funky stuff as a teen but now I can hear how lovely – and moving – the song is. (“Maybe someday, you’ll see my face among the crowd…”) Such a shame those brilliant musicians and arrangers were never credited at the time.
Krissi Carpenter on 13 September 2026
Hi David. I too was a fan of Stevie’s ‘chunkier’ earlier renditions, but this for me is so cleverly written and I believe it stands the test of time. Thank you for listening.
Karen on 6 September 2026
Loving the Manilow moment on your show Krissi Carpenter. My first ever concert at the albert Hall with my mum in 1982 I think was Barry and he was amazing. The song Could it be magic is still one of my favourites ever. And now you are playing my favourite voice since I was about 8 years old, Roger Whittaker. Definitely ticking all the right boxes for me today.
Krissi Carpenter on 13 September 2026
Hi Karen, thank you for message. Barry is my absolute favourite. Seen him – oh I don’t know how many times ! Thank you for listening. X
Andrew Diprose on 3 September 2026
First the return of the wonderful Krissi Carpenter on Sundays and now the excellent John Walton and his much-missed Music Cavalcade is back on Thursday evenings. You are spoiling us, Serenade Radio! Thank you.
Krissi Carpenter on 6 September 2026
Thank you Andrew. So good to know you’re listening and I agree with you about John Walton. Isn’t it wonderful to have him back.
John Walton on 6 September 2026
Thanks for your words of encouragement, Krissi and Andrew. (All downhill from now on!) Good to have you back, Krissi.
Karen on 3 September 2026
It was lovely to have John Walton and his music cavalcade back again. Great programme as always John. Welcome back
John Walton on 3 September 2026
Thanks, Karen. I enjoyed getting back in the swing. Got lots planned for future editions.
Martyn Bassey on 3 September 2026
Really enjoyed By The Time I Get To Cleethorpes. I never knew that there were songs written about Basingstoke, Northampton, and Stockport! Great fun for Bank Holiday Monday, Many thanks Roger 🤣👍
Gary Farr on 3 September 2026
At last a proper radio station!
Great music and presenters
An eclectic mix of the most fabulous music
Please though, how about a weekly programme from Blackpool featuring the great Wurlitzer organ, I’m sure there’s an audience out there who would listen !
Chris Cobb on 31 August 2026
Just loved ‘ By the time I get to Cleethorpes’. Some really quirky songs in there. Any chance of a repeat?
Roger on 1 September 2026
Hi Chris
Pleased you enjoyed it! Quirky? I should say so. I enjoyed putting it together – no plans for a repeat at the moment but who knows? If there enough quirky people in the world…..thank you for listening. Must go, Basingstoke is calling me siren-like to its charms.
Roger
Roger
Andy Grahamme on 31 August 2026
Roger Williams…smashing programme today…By the Time I get to Cleethorpes!! Enjoyed it so much…some terrific music!!
Roger Williams on 1 September 2026
Hello Andy
Pleased you enjoyed it, went from the sublime to the completely and utterly ridiculous didn’t it? It was fun to put together – thank you for listening!
Roger
Andrew Diprose on 31 August 2026
How lovely to have Krissi back on Sunday mornings and, as a bonus, today on Bank Holiday Monday. You really brighten up the airwaves. Welcome back, Krissi!
Krissi Carpenter on 2 September 2026
Hi Andrew,
Thank you for your very kind comments. They are truly appreciated. I must say, I’m really enjoying being back on Serenade. My kind of music. X
Barbara Heathcote on 31 August 2026
Morning Andy. Thank you for playing the Purple People Eater. I’m sure we were all singing along. Don’t worry I won’t mention it again for a long time, did you just say thank goodness. 😂
Wim de Lang on 30 August 2026
Oh thank you Paul Ruddock for playing People Say we re in Love by Ray Conniff on tonight’s Big Band Special.
Actually this was a tune for a much loved request show on Sunday morning on the offshore radio station Radio Veronica in the 70s. And believe it or not, your closing tune by Ray Ellis also was a tune on Radio Veronica every day for a Dutch version of Music while you work.
Paul Ruddock - Big Band Special on 30 August 2026
My pleasure Wim and I really appreciate the info. I’ve only ever read about Radio Veronica – so to have played two of their themes in one show tonight has to be pure serendipity! Thank you, as ever, for tuning our way. Paul
Gwen on 30 August 2026
Love me some “Summertime”!! Thanks for the retrospective.
Jane Bozian on 30 August 2026
I’ve waxed lyrical before about Steve James’ Late Night Extra show offering a magic carpet ride to those groovy hidden gems.
However I do so enjoy his morning weekend shows traveling back to those hazy, halcyon days.
He played That Happy Feeling by Bert Kaempfert, it really did bring back happy feelings probably from hearing it on the radio when I was about 5, but was it a theme tune to a radio or TV theme as it’s so familiar to me?
Steve in Worcs. on 30 August 2026
Hi Jane, I think it was used a fair bit on US children’s TV shows way back, and it was also used as a theme by Robbie Dale on Radio Caroline.
Jane Bozian on 30 August 2026
Thank you Steve, it must have been Radio Caroline I’d remember it from.
Ed Moon on 29 August 2026
What a lovely show from ‘the other Ed’ – Ed Wellman – this morning. It was particularly great to hear the beautiful Adiemus. A lovely way to start the day.
Andy Grahamme on 26 August 2026
Smashing programme this afternoon…John Darvall is such a good presenter…very relaxed.. entertaining…the epitome of easy to listen to…I suppose thats why its called easy listening!?
Randall Riley on 25 August 2026
I realize she’s more closely aligned with country and pop but the wonderful Dolly Parton died today. Maybe someone will include a track or two to remember her here. Thanks for all you do.
Sonia Beldom on 25 August 2026
A very sad loss to music in general Randall – I’ll be paying tribute to Dolly in my show this Tuesday evening starting at 10pm UK time.
Jim Sears on 25 August 2026
Sonia you always make me smile. Your show is a treasure !!
Sonia Beldom on 25 August 2026
Thank you Jim – that’s kind.
David on 23 August 2026
“The ghost army’s waiting for you…” I know a little bit about a lot of music but every week there’s a genuine surprise on Soft Folkus. Tonight Roger Williams played a song called The Invisible Woman by Peggy Seeger which blew me away! Wise, witty and heartwarming with the cherry on the cake for me – a middle-eight. Who is Peggy Seeger and is the rest of her rep’ this good? Hot damn!
Roger Williams on 25 August 2026
Hello David
It’s a cracking song isn’t it? Peggy is Pete Seeger’s half sister and she lives in the UK. She’s 91 and stands tall and proud. Her late husband Ewan MacColl wrote “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” for her. I met her once and told her I’d seen her and Ewan perform together in the 1960s. She fixed me with her piercing blue eyes and said “we’re not that old!” And inside, I suppose that’s true. I’ll pop another song of hers in the show first week in September.
Thank you for listening,
Roger
Terri on 23 August 2026
@ Roger Williams
Prelude – After The Goldrush.
Absolutely lovely, thank you. I’m now searching for it to buy & download onto a playlist.
How I LOVE Sundays with Serenade. 💕
Roger Williams on 25 August 2026
Hello Terri
It’s a lovely version of Neil Young’s song isn’t it? It shouldn’t be too difficult to find.
Thank you for choosing Serenade as your Sunday companion.
Roger
Karen on 23 August 2026
Another great show from Paul Ruddock tonight . Especially good to hear one of my personal favourites Kay Starr. Would be great to hear more of her.
Paul Ruddock - Big Band Special on 23 August 2026
Thanks for tuning my way this evening Karen and your kind words too. Noted and agreed re Kay Starr.
Gwen on 23 August 2026
I always look forward to Steyn”s Song of the Week. Listening about Belle Baker and “All of Me” , then just falling into a rabbit hole of fascinating side bars. The depth of research and how all the stars align…each episode is a treasure. Keep it up. I am one happy listener.
Nick Hingley on 23 August 2026
The Ray Conniff Show 6.30pm Wednesdays: Much-missed Brian Savin is looking down with a smile on his face.
Nick Hingley on 23 August 2026
Dance Band Days: Roger asked if ‘Bob A Job’ still existed. I remember, the yellow stickers with a big blue tick and ‘Job Done’ that you put in your front window but this will have been around the mid-1960s. I certainly can’t remember any instances of 5p jobs at our household post decimalisation.
Given inflation it would have to be 87.5p a job today according to the Bank of England inflation Calculator. My parents were always happy to support the Scouts*; however, I can’t help imagining the horrified looks the proposal of a Bob A Job scheme would elicit today!
* Until covid there was still a bi-annual gang show in my locality.
Roger Williams on 25 August 2026
Yup, we had the yellow stickers with the blue tick too! 87.5p a Job doesn’t quite have the same ring to it does it? I thing Gang Shows are still hanging on in some parts of the country. It does seem like a different time though – largely because it was!
Roger
Martyn Bassey on 23 August 2026
Four great hours of music on the “Night Shift”. Loved the songs by featured artiste Peggy Lee and those played on the mystery years. “Goodbye To Love” by The Carpenters is one of my favourites. Many thanks to Sean Usher and Johnny Mac. 👍👍
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 29 August 2026
Thank you, Martyn. The Bee Gees are my artists of the week for Saturday 5 September, as, incredibly, Barry Gibb, turns 80.
Tom Colmey on 23 August 2026
Krissi Carpenter’s Sunday Best was just simply…….a perfect addition to my Sunday morning. Enjoyed the whole two hours and especially the Andy Williams slot! I even had to sit down with a coffee to listen to every word. Thank you Serenade Radio and of course……Krissi 👍
Krissi Carpenter on 24 August 2026
Thank you Tom. Every Sunday morning from now on with ‘Sunday Best’ and I’ll also be back on Bank Holiday Monday filling in for David Yarnall while he takes a well earned break.
Randall Riley on 23 August 2026
I was slightly distracted but think there was a question just now as to whether or not it was Jo Stafford with the Pied Pipers on the Johnny Mercer commercial recording of “My Sugar is So Refined.” The wonderful Jo had already left the Pied Pipers to head out on her solo career by this 1946 recording; instead, we have the also wonderful June Hutton with the Pied Pipers. We love June a lot here, too. Thanks for the great music this Sunday (Monday and Always, too) here at Serenade Radio!
Vic Groves on 23 August 2026
Thank you for the information Randall. Much appreciated. Thanks for listening. Regards, Vic.
David on 23 August 2026
A cavalcade of classic Carolyn Leigh songs in On the Town this week but the one I enjoyed most was a newbie from Peter Pan sung by Mary Martin, (“I say, ding-dong!”) I Gotta Crow is only a minor piece but inexplicably joyous. It brought to mind I Feel Pretty from West Side Story. Mary’s delightful crowing at the fade reminded me of the annual Seagull Squawking Competition which I thought was in Devon this year but instead was held abroad. In Somerset.
Glenn Purland on 23 August 2026
Welcome back to the Serenade Radio family, Krissi. Looking forward to your show 👍🏻
Krissi Carpenter on 24 August 2026
Thank you Glenn. I hope you enjoyed it. I’ll be back next Sunday and then again on Bank Holiday Monday sitting in for David Yarnall while he has a well earned break
Andy Grahamme on 22 August 2026
Just top class entertainment. For those who miss the great days of Radio 2..try Serenade…you’ll never move the dial again!
Nancy on 22 August 2026
Lovely program tonight Johnny Mac! Especially enjoyed all the Italian selections and singers! Bravo amico!
Johnny Mac, A Little Night Music on 22 August 2026
Grazie a una signora, as they say, Nancy.
Next week’s artist is the lovely Irish singer, Dana.