Kirstyfest 2011 - 9th Oct

noodleMon 03/10/11 19:15

It's that time again!

quickfind:434101

Kirstyfest is a gathering of those who admire Kirsty MacColl and her music.

At midday, we convene around her bench in Soho Square, dedicated to her by her fans in recognition of one of her most loved songs, 'Soho Square'.

Afterwards, we move on to the Phoneix Artist's Club, a short walk away, to chat, mingle, have a drink, listen/play music - whatever you like. You may even see a few famous faces!

Kirsty was a renowned English singer and songwriter who had collaborated with such people as U2, Tracey Ullman, Evan Dando, Billy Bragg, the Pogues and many more. Songs you will have heard include the perennial Christmas anthem 'Fairytale of New York', her cover of 'Days' and 'A New England' as well as 'There's a Guy Works Down the Chip Shop Swears He's Elvis' and 'Walking Down Madison'.

Kirsty was tragically killed in a scuba diving accident in Mexico in December 2000 and we have celebrated her life and music ever since.

Close friendships have been made through Kirstyfest and we are always happy to welcome new faces, even if you have never heard of Kirsty until now.

Remember, you don't have to be a die-hard fan to come along. All are welcome and we are a very sociable bunch!

photo:618779

noodleMon 03/10/11 19:27

For those who followed the Justice for Kirsty campaign, to let you know it has since been decided to close the project. Kirsty's mother, Jean, has been a formidible force and made much progress. She is an incredibly inspiring person and those who have become friends through Kirsty and all the events since her passing share a special, heart-warming bond. We're always keen to welcome new friends and supporters of course!

All proceeds made through the project are going to a cause that was very close to Kirsty's heart, 'The Music Fund for Cuba'.

All the information and more can be found at: http://www.kirstymaccoll.com/

Below is a clip taken of Jean's speech at the end of the AMAZING tribute concert performed after last year's Kirstyfest.

noodleMon 03/10/11 19:33

And lastly (sorry for those who have heard me go on about this), all the artists who performed at the aformentioned concert have signed an electric guitar which is now up on eBay.

http://tinyurl.com/kirstyguitar

The performers include: Billy Bragg, Andrea Corr, Mary Coughlan, Ellie Goulding, Phill Jupitus, Brian Kennedy, Amy MacDonald, Alison Moyet, Eddi Reader, Catherine Tate, James Walsh (Starsailor), Kim Wilde amongst others.

The bidding closes on Sunday 9th Oct and proceeds will go to The Music Fund for Cuba.

Of course, if you would like to buy it for me, I would be forever in your debt :) (And no, that doesn't (necessarily)c mean sexual favours).

noodleMon 03/10/11 19:38

Some obligatory songs:

noodleMon 03/10/11 19:39

Phew!

Aaaaaaaand rest, noodle.

lovermanMon 03/10/11 21:16

Thanks for all this, Noodle.

I met a chap in San Francisco, John, who comes over often for the Kirsty event. he and I bonded over Kirsty music that he had put on to play in a coffee bar where he was doing a shift.

noodleMon 03/10/11 21:20

Ah yes I know him! He has been so kind and put up many of the chords on Kirsty's site I use to play her songs. Also sang on stage with him once though I don't think he'll remember that moment too fondly!

Will you be attending?