London 8850 - Frankie Ford - Roberta

The most intriguing thing about Frankie Ford is that there now appear to be two Frankie Fords: one no doubt the real article, the other a talented impostor. Youtuber BOBFORDD noticed that the Frankie Ford in a live appearance he uploaded was (apparently) a different individual from the one he had put up previously, He drew the listening and viewing public's attention to this, and generated some heated debate. I was lucky enough to see Frankie Ford play at the Dublin Castle in Camden Town, London around 1982. There was a transport strike that night that hit London hard, meaning that nobody came to the gig. Me and the only other six or seven punters there that night crowded around the piano at Frankie's invitation as he played his socks off giving us an absolutely belting performance with the commitment of someone playing to a packed stadium. A memorable night certainly but did I see the real Frankie? From what I remember he was the one in BOBFORDD's two videos with the shades and piano key themed attire but I might, after twenty-six years or so, be wrong. Certainly I remember him having a strong New Orleans area accent, like in his songs and like the Frankie in this video has (unlike the other one). Which is the real Frankie Ford? Watch the videos of the live performances of both on Youtube and judge for yourselves.

(N.B. I put up 'Roberta' because 'Sea Cruise' was already on Youtube in a dozen or so vids and the original version of the flip 'Roberta' recorded for Ace had yet to be uploaded.)

Category:

Music

Tags:

• rhythm
• and
• blues
• rock
• roll
• Frankie
• Ford
• Roberta
• real
• fake
• imposter

[bellgardens53]

Where can I find "Lights Out?"

[EagerBoy49]

It must be on some compliations. The artist is Jerry Byrne in case you're not sure and that helps you to find it.

[manyfat]

Thanks a ton man. My dad was playing this song in the car taking me to school the other day, really enjoyed it. Hard to find it online though. Sea Cruise is quite prevalent, but this is so hard to find.

[housedart]

great combo of New Orleans and doo wop!

[kstroh2]

Great sounds of New Orleans at the time.

FF puts on a hell of a show!!!!

[bellgardens53]

Sorry I was a bit short here. Frankie Ford did not "Lights Out" but I thought it was speciality recording by Jerry Byrne. I look aropund. "lihgts Out" is a great and real fast rocker. A classic!!!

[korymckay]

The flipp side of Sea Cruise. Alost gem of oldie GEMS. You know what your doin VITO