FUNNY OLD WORLD The Life and Music of John Henry Rostill by Rob Bradford

A quality reprint of the original 1988 book now with 114 pages and colour photos. It includes a new Foreword by Hank Marvin in addition to Bruce Welch’s original contribution. Based on exclusive interviews with Hank Marvin, Bruce Welch, Brian Bennett, Alan Hawkshaw, Alan Jones, Big Jim Sullivan and Elsie and Margaret Rostill.

Reviews of the original issue mentioned Rob’s encyclopaedic knowledge of the subject.

“Thoroughly researched…. a book that seems to capture John’s soul and spirit. Essential reading for Shadows fans” (Jet Black)

“With five years research behind it … no stone left unturned…. Rob has done a wonderful job on the life and career of John Rostill” (Ian Kershaw – Shadows Circle of Friends Australia)

“Shadows fans will be delighted….. it’s good to see neglected artists being given deserved coverage by knowledgeable enthusiasts who care” (Record Collector)

“Rob has done a fantastic job in preparing this work and was fortunate enough to have the support of John’s family. It makes a compulsive read and is extensively illustrated with rare photographs… No self- respecting Shadows fan should be without it” (Pipeline)

“Rob has produced a compelling account of one man’s life in the late 50s and early 60s Brit Pop” (Vox)

“The book is obviously essential reading for Shadows fans and contains many fine archive photos” (Beat Goes On)

“I found out a lot about John that even I didn’t know” (Bruce Welch)

“Rob is an expert on his subject and brings the story to life with his attention to detail and highly professional way of writing. A book to grace every Shadows fan’s collection. Encyclopaedic is an understatement.” (Music Collector)

This book is being republished as a tribute to Rob who sadly died at the end of 2022. He was always busy looking to the next project so a reprint was long overdue. Modern technology has meant that the original photos, many of which had no negatives, have been greatly improved. It includes extra photos, letters, press cuttings and an updated discography.

Di's profits go to Brain Cancer Research.

Feb 2024