Arthur Johnstone is the special and always very welcome guest at Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 4th March. Arthur has been playing in Irvine for a wheen of years. In 1974 Arthur was appearing at The Eglinton Arms as part of the talented band Laggan. He is a fine solo singer and it’s testament to his talent and deserved popularity that he continues to be in demand.
It’s Arthur’s fine voice, warm charisma plus large doses of humanity and humour that remain his strengths. When bringing Arthur to mind, people tend to recall him with arms folded, his voice filling the room with songs like The Tinkerman’s Daughter, Bandiera Rosa, Freedom Come All Ye, Your Daughters and Your Sons…. the list goes on.
Glasgow’s Star Folk Club was founded by Arthur and for many years he was the organiser. He has also worked in the theatre. He did the music in the National Theatre of Scotland’s production Men Should Weep by Ena Lamont Stewart. A play about being born into poverty, Arthur’s singing punctuated each scene and significantly contributed to an acclaimed production.
Arthur appeared at the recent Celtic Connections. The title of the gig was Arthur Johnstone and Friends and there was no shortage of Friends – on stage or in the audience! He is admired by many and has inspired many of today’s current generation. When Arthur appeared last at the Irvine Club he was with The Stars Band. The man is in much demand.
Get along to Irvine Folk Club on Wednesday 4th March and enjoy Arthur Johnstone. Irvine Folk Club meets in Vineburgh Community Centre in Quarry Road. The Club starts at 8pm and it’s BYOB.