Roger Bing Croydon Advertiser, October 98
"a glorious wallow in unabashed musical nostalgia..."
Ross Fortune, Time Out, January 99
"the oddest (certainly most specialised) music book to emerge for some little while..."
Mark Davison, Surrey Mirror, January 99
"this 'record' is a nostalgic treat..."
Pat Gilbert, Mojo, February 99
"plenty of earnest research obviously went into the early rock'n'roll and beat years..."
Patrick Humphries, Record Collector, March 99
"a fascinating account of the sound of the suburb..."
Waterstone's Bookshop
"a must-have for all those who supported live music in Croydon over the last thirty years and a cracking good read for music fans everywhere..."
Synopsis
A look at the Croydon music scene during the years 1960 to 1980. It features information and photographs covering groups who has passed through and played in the area, which means almost every major British band of the time; plus visiting American groups. The book therefore reflects the music and the period as much as the tone itself.
From the Author
On its release in 1998, Rockin' Croydon quickly became a local best seller, but as word got around copies have been despatched to all corners of the UK, as well as a large number overseas. Many have found their way to the States, Seattle, Chicago and Nashville; copies have flown out to Canada, Italy, Germany, Norway and even a radio station in Yugoslavia!
No matter where you live, this snapshot of the 60's and 70's music scene in South East London appears to strike a chord with everyone.
About the Author
Chris Groom was born at home in Caterham on the Hill, Surrey, in the same month that "Que Sera, Sera" by Doris Day was Number One in the Hit Parade. Grew up to the sound of fifties rock'n'roll emanating from his uncle's Dansette record player and to the Beatles and Stones from various transistor radios - decided early on that he preferred the Stones, and that the Fab Four were vastly overrated. Sensibly decided not to go into A&R.
Educated at De Stafford Comprehensive School to the sounds of Slade, Alice Cooper and Mott the Hoople; he moved on to Reiand been turned down by 'Q'. Still never mind; whatever will be, will be - isn't that right Doris...?
