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The Rock Island Line

Huw Williams explores the story behind the song that launched the British skiffle boom and inspired John Lennon to transform The Beatles into a rock and roll band.

The story of how Lonnie Donegan's recording of The Rock Island changed the course of popular music forever. Folk singer and musician Huw Williams talks to The Quarrymen and Peter Donegan, tracing the origins of The Rock Island Line from John Lennon's prized 78 via the prisons of the Southern American states to the railroad itself. The programme includes a brand new recording of The Rock Island Line featuring The Quarrymen and Pete Donegan.

30 minutes

Last on

Sat 29 Jan 2011 15:30
Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4

Music Played

  • Lonnie Donegan

    The Rock Island

Broadcasts

  • Tue 5 Jan 2010 13:30
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4 FM
  • Sat 29 Jan 2011 15:30
    Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4