Podcast Summary: Song 178: “Who Knows Where The Time Goes?” by Fairport Convention, Part One, Going Electric

Host: Andrew Hickey
Podcast: A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs
Release Date: May 16, 2025

Introduction

In this episode, Andrew Hickey delves into the pivotal transformation of folk music as it "goes electric," focusing on Fairport Convention's rendition of “Who Knows Where The Time Goes?”. The discussion highlights the influential role of Joe Boyd, a key figure bridging the American and British music scenes from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s.

Joe Boyd’s Background and Influence

Joe Boyd's journey into music began in Princeton, New Jersey, where his exposure to black R&B and jazz through shows like Bandstand ignited his passion. A significant turning point was receiving the RCA Victor Encyclopaedia of Recorded Jazz from his grandmother, which broadened his musical horizons beyond rock and roll to encompass blues and jazz.

Joe Boyd (00:03): "I could be a record producer. Accept all the music I liked was pre-war blues and jazz music."

Boyd's keen ear and deep understanding of music composition enabled him to become a sought-after producer, influencing both American West Coast and British folk, rock, psychedelic, and progressive musicians.

Early Music Industry Involvement

Boyd's early career involved promoting concerts and managing tours for legendary artists like Lonnie Johnson, Big Joe Williams, and Sleepy John Estes. His work with Chris Albertson helped reintroduce Lonnie Johnson to the music scene, setting the stage for a blues revival among white audiences.

Lonnie Johnson (12:31): "Did you ever love a woman...?"

Boyd's experience managing these artists honed his skills in organization and artist relations, essential for his later success with Fairport Convention.

Fairport Convention’s Formation and Early Days

Fairport Convention was initially a country rock band, shifting through various names and lineups before settling on their iconic identity. The band struggled with finding a distinct sound, oscillating between traditional folk and contemporary rock influences.

Richard Thompson emerged as a standout guitarist with a unique style influenced by jazz great Django Reinhardt and blues legend Lonnie Johnson.

Richard Thompson (38:34): "Come All Ye Fair and tender ladies take warning..."

Despite early struggles, Joe Boyd saw potential in Fairport Convention after witnessing a standout performance by Richard Thompson, leading him to sign the band and guide their musical direction.

Transition to Electric and Signing of Fairport Convention

Under Boyd's guidance, Fairport Convention transitioned from their initial folk-rock sound to incorporate electric instruments, aligning with the broader "going electric" movement in folk music. Boyd's production expertise was instrumental in shaping their early recordings, blending traditional British folk with electric rock elements.

Richard Thompson (43:45): "You're gonna need to parachute when I get through walking these blues..."

This fusion marked a significant shift, positioning Fairport Convention as pioneers in the burgeoning folk-rock genre.

Introduction of Sandy Denny

The addition of Sandy Denny as the band's female vocalist was a game-changer. Denny brought a powerful and expressive vocal presence, complementing Thompson's guitar prowess and enhancing the band's dynamic.

Sandy Denny (56:07): "And my father won't slay you for your lack of kind."

Denny's ability to interpret both traditional and original songs elevated Fairport Convention's performances, making them a standout act in the folk scene.

Production of Early Albums

Fairport Convention's early albums, particularly What We Did on Our Holidays and Unhalfbricking, showcased their evolving sound. Boyd's production emphasized the band's original compositions alongside thoughtful covers of contemporary songwriters like Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell.

Richard Thompson (74:15): "Meet on the Ledge..."

The songwriting prowess of Thompson and Denny helped the band forge a unique identity, straying from purely American influences to embrace their English roots.

The Fatal Car Crash and Its Aftermath

Tragedy struck on May 11, 1969, when a van crash resulted in the deaths of drummer Martin Lamble and seamstress Jeannie Franklin, amid injuries to members Thompson and Hutchings. This devastating event profoundly affected the band, leading to lineup changes and altering their musical trajectory permanently.

Andrew Hickey (86:25): "But once again, the lineup of the group that recorded the album wasn't the same as the lineup that existed at the time of its release..."

The loss of key members forced Fairport Convention to navigate the challenges of rebuilding and continuing their musical legacy amidst grief and uncertainty.

Conclusion

Andrew Hickey's exploration of Fairport Convention's early years underscores the transformative impact of Joe Boyd and the pivotal shift as folk music embraced electric instrumentation. The episode encapsulates the band's struggles, triumphs, and the indelible mark left by Sandy Denny, setting the stage for Fairport Convention's enduring legacy in rock and folk music.

Notable Quotes:

• Joe Boyd (00:03): "Folk music went electric twice, and both times Joe Boyd was there when it happened."
• Lonnie Johnson (08:59): “My multi-million selling R&B number one Tomorrow Night.”
• Richard Thompson (74:35): “I think that she should be a jazz singer because I could hear the vocal control she had...”

Timestamps:

• Introduction of Joe Boyd: 00:03 - 03:53
• Promotion of Lonnie Johnson: 08:59 - 10:01
• Fairport Convention’s First Single: 42:08 - 48:52
• Introduction of Sandy Denny: 56:07 - 72:06
• Fatal Car Crash: 85:55 - 87:45

This detailed summary captures the essence of the episode, highlighting the critical moments and influential figures that shaped Fairport Convention's journey into the electric folk-rock landscape.