Nicknamed affectionately by Danny Kyle as folk music’s old smoothie, Archie Fisher is the guest at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 31st July. He’s played in Irvine on many occasions over the years and it’s always good to welcome him back again.
Archie last played Irvine at the 50th Marymass Folk Festival as one of The Four A’s in a sell-out concert where he took to the stage along with Adam McNaughtan, Arthur Johnstone & Alastair McDonald. Folk singer, songwriter, master guitarist, producer, broadcaster and a marvellous ambassador for folk music are all aspects that would feature on an Archie Fisher CV.
From birth Archie was surrounded by music. His Mum from Vatersay in the Outer Hebrides was a native Gaelic speaker and also a fine singer. His Dad was a member of The Glasgow Polis Choir. Exposure to a variety of singing styles contributed no doubt to Archie and his two sisters Ray and Cilla all becoming professional singers.
Growing up as folk music was hitting new-found heights, Archie discovered and was hugely influenced by role models like Woody Guthrie and Pete Seeger. Through musicians like them he found the power of song as a way to comment on politics and as a way to voice protest.
His long and wide- ranging musical career with many collaborations along the way paved the way for him to present BBC Radio Scotland’s flagship Travelling Folk programme for over 25 years. The ‘folk music’s old smoothie’ description was probably first aired live on Travelling Folk by Danny Kyle who was a contributor in its later years.
Archie is known for his skilful guitar picking ability, choosing good songs that suit his voice and a gentle presentation style. He has many solo albums to his name and his singing and guitar skills have seen him feature on the albums of a number of other artists. Canada and the USA are familiar stomping grounds for Archie as well as regular UK tours.
Clear your diary for Wednesday 31st July to hear Archie Fisher at Irvine Folk Club in Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry. The Club starts at 8pm.And finally, Information Flyers for the forthcoming 52nd Marymass Folk Festival are now out. Check out your local library and if you can’t do that then go online at www.irvinefolkclub.org.uk for full details or phone Joyce on 07798572926.