Ken Arkley
Ken has been listening to folk and blues since the sixties - some say the 1860s. Cutting his teeth at the school folk club
he moved on to the late, lamented South Tyne Folk and Blues and has been MC and general factotum at South Shields Folk Club for over 20 years.
But he's no purist and shares the view of Big Bill Broonzy : " I guess all songs is folk songs. I never heard no horse sing 'em."
Paul Simon, James Taylor, Don McLean, Keb Mo , Eric Bibb and Mark Knopfler are just some of the musicians Ken says would be happier if he wasn't covering their songs. Big Bill Broonzy doesn't mind. He's dead.
Club Quotes
Who is this man?
Great guitarist with a very wide repertoire. Does a wonderful version of Don McLean's 'Empty chairs'
Very versatile guitarist with a lovely voice. Chooses great songs from blues to contemporary
A relaxed player with a varied mix of song styles performed beautifully
Ken could play his songs blindfolded. Quirky sense of humour
