Peter Noone is to headline a strong American bill in the Solid Silver 60s Tour in 2012. Peter, who fronted Hermans Hermits, one of the most successful British Invasion bands of the 60s and 70s will doubtless be playing many of his 20 or so hit singles. Also featuring Americans Bryan Hyland and Chris Montez, the bill is completed by our own Brian Poole and Vanity Fare. Dates run from March 3rd to May 6th

Phil Spector filed an appeal of his 2009 murder conviction on December 16 to the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing that the judge in the trial gave improper opinion on expert testimony.

New Zealand has honored Engelbert Humperdinck's "Ten Guitars" as part of a series of "number" stamps. Though released as a B-side to "Please Release Me" in 1967, the song has become very popular there. There even was an effort at one time to make the tune New Zealand's national anthem.

Some of you may may have already read that Reg Presley is ill and has been hospitalised. He is being treated for pneumonia and fluid around his heart. But he has still retained his sense of humour. Watch the website for updates.

I am sure he would be pleased to receive cards and know that we are all thinking of him. I will be happy to forward them.

Jacqueline Ryan
56 Waite Davies Rd., London SE12 OND

The Troggs Fan Club Secretary

Secrets of pop success revealed, scientists claim

Budding pop stars may fare better if they swap a piano keyboard for a PC, according to university researchers. University of Bristol scientists claim to have developed software that can spot whether a song has hit potential.

The program looks at 23 separate characteristics including loudness, danceability and harmonic simplicity. Trained using hit songs from the Top 40 over the last 50 years, the software can predict chart positions with about 60% accuracy, the scientists say.

VINTAGE RECORD LABELS...
We've revamped our UK record label pages. Its an ongoing task, but you may already find them of interest.

Vinyl Records
Some original UK vinyl for sale

UK Collectors Record Centre
A vast database of UK record shops selling everything from Roy Orbison to The Orb!