Brian Locking facts for kids

Brian Locking (born December 22, 1938 – died October 8, 2020) was an English musician and songwriter. He was best known for playing bass guitar. Brian was a member of the band The Wildcats in 1956. He also played with The Shadows from 1962 to 1963.

During his time with The Shadows, he appeared in the movie Summer Holiday with Cliff Richard. Brian also toured with many famous musicians. These included rock stars like Gene Vincent and Eddie Cochran.

Brian's Early Life and Music

Brian Locking was born on December 22, 1938. His hometown was Bedworth, Warwickshire, England. He went to St. Anne's School and then Huntingtower Road School.

After school, he worked for British Railways. He was a fireman and trained to be a train driver. Brian started playing the double bass in different bands.

He was part of a group called The Harmonica Vagabonds. Later, they changed their name to The Vagabonds Skiffle Group. Brian often played at The 2i's Coffee Bar in London. There, he was asked to tour with other musicians.

Joining The Wildcats

Brian later switched to playing the bass guitar. He joined The Wildcats, which was the backing band for rock and roll singer Marty Wilde. Another member of The Wildcats was Brian Bennett, who later joined The Shadows.

Brian Locking could play many instruments. He played the harmonica and the clarinet. The clarinet was sometimes called a "licorice stick." This is how Brian got his nickname, "Licorice." Vince Eager gave him this nickname in 1956.

When Marty Wilde left The Wildcats, the band changed its name. They became "the Krew Kats." They recorded instrumental songs and had some success. Brian Bennett then left to join The Shadows.

Playing with The Shadows

In April 1962, Brian Bennett suggested Brian Locking join The Shadows. Brian Locking took the place of their bassist, Jet Harris. Brian Locking had a simple, strong playing style. This changed the sound of The Shadows.

He played on some of their most famous songs. These include "Dance On," "Foot Tapper," and "Atlantis." Brian also played the harmonica during live shows. He played it on his special album song, "Dakota." He also appeared in the 1963 Cliff Richard film, Summer Holiday.

After about 18 months, Brian left The Shadows. He wanted to focus on his religious activities. He continued to play music at a slower pace. He even played double bass for Donovan's first recording session.

Years later, he briefly played with The Shadows again. This was when his replacement, John Rostill, was in the hospital. In his later life, Brian often played at Shadows guitar clubs. He also performed with many Shadows-style bands. He helped keep their music alive in countries like France and Germany.

Brian also played with The Wildcats again. This was at Marty Wilde's 50th Anniversary Concert. He also appeared on stage with all the surviving members of The Shadows.

Brian's Passing

Brian Locking had a condition called Bell's palsy. He was also registered blind. He passed away in a hospice in North Wales on October 8, 2020. He was 81 years old. He had been diagnosed with a tumor.

See also

In Spanish: Brian Locking para niños