In this very special episode of Keep Folk Talking, Brian Jones sits down with Jacqueline McDonald to trace back to her unlikely beginning and the legacy it sparked: from her time with The Spinners, to the packed and joyful nights at the Coach House, to unforgettable encounters with Phil Ochs, Tom Paxton and Peggy Seeger. Jacqui reflects on the friendships, adventures and community harmonies that defined those years, showing how a moment of shelter grew into a lasting folk tradition built on belonging, generosity, and the simple joy of shared song.

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

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Exclusive Podcast Alert!!!

Gordon Jones, Brian's big brother and band member of the legendary Silly Wizard was given a tape recording of a concert the band performed back in 1985 at the iconic Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.

Here is the full story - Silly Wizard Live in San Francisco by Gordon Jones

What began as a spur-of-the-moment “scratch” gig in a shared flat at 69 Broughton Street, Edinburgh, soon grew into something extraordinary. That impromptu group of local musicians became Silly Wizard – a name dreamed up for fun, but one that would go on to define one of Scotland’s most celebrated folk bands.

Experience the magic of Silly Wizard’s legendary 1985 San Francisco concert – exclusively on Openhouse Studio.

And here is the full set list:

1 Opening Set

2 Queen Of Argyle

3 Valley Of Strathmore

4 Parish Of Dunkeld

5 Ramblin’ Rover

6 Banks Of The Lea

7 Johnny And Phil Duet

8 McGlynchy’s/Donald McGilavry

9 Blackbird

10 Shortage Of Potatoes

11 Golden Golden

12 Final Tune Set

13 Broom Of The Cowdenknowes

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In this episode, Roger chats with host Brian Jones about the heyday of the Wirral folk scene - from running clubs at The Bell in Wallasey to booking guests like Martin Carthy and welcoming newcomers from the floor. Along the way, he reflects on the people who shaped those nights, the joy of singing with friends, and why he still believes that folk music’s heart lies in sharing songs, not showing off.

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

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Brian Jones sits down with Helen Sheppard, described by him as the ‘unsung hero of Openhouse,’ whose harmonies and subtle touches have graced more than a dozen albums over the years. Helen’s voice has lifted countless recordings – from Ian Chesterman’s Over the Moors to the songs of Eddie Morris, Jeff Hurst, Roger Parker, and Jack Owen.

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

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Celebrating '50 years on the road' join Brian Jones and David Littler, the original Houghton Weaver as they delve into his story and more about his band "The Legends of Lancashire Folk"

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

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Brian Jones catches up with Alan Ainsworth, a lifelong songwriter whose journey began in 1963 at the Washouse Folk Club – where two Dylan covers went down like a lead balloon. Undeterred, Alan found a home at Liverpool’s Green Moose, where his songs and RAF uniform made him both an outsider and an unlikely hit. Sixty years on, Alan is still writing, still singing, and finally ready to share the songs that time – and the industry – never quite caught. This is one for the unsung.

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

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Brian Jones welcomes Barry Evans – folk club organiser, festival co-founder, and master of the mic – for a rich and entertaining conversation. From a first folk night at The Loft near Wolverhampton in 1968, to running Chester’s Bull and Stirrup club and helping bring Scottish legends like Barbara Dickson and Archie Fisher to the North West, Barry shares a sharp, funny and deeply affectionate look at the scene that shaped his life.

Discover hundreds of folk tracks from great artists with real character at Openhouse Folk. If you have any questions, thoughts or ideas, email us at studio@openhousefolk.com. Remember to rate us highly if you have enjoyed the podcast. Your support means the world to us!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.