Episode 013 - Alwyn Welch

Send us a textRocks Off, Worried About You, CitadelWell-travelled Stones devotee and diehard concert reviewer Alwyn Welch joins host Bob Drummond to unpack nearly fifty years of rock-tour memories—from his first gig in 1976 to the 2024 Hackney Diamonds tour. If you crave first-hand tales, set-list geekouts and a tribute to Charlie Watts, press play and settle in.Key takeaways for Stones devotees141 shows & counting: Alwyn’s spreadsheet proves the addiction is real.Family reunion vibes: Fans, crew and band share one giant backstage.Charlie’s irreplaceable shuffle: How his touch defined the Stones—and why Steve Jordan nails it without copying.Review or forget: Documenting gigs locks in memories you’ll relive decades later.Small rooms, big thrills: Why theatre gigs beat stadium spectacle every time.Better fan engagement, please: Merch bundles and ticket lotteries still need work.Contents00:00 – Intro: who is Alwyn Welch?02:53 – Ben Waters club night & Stones cameos05:26 – Why write concert reviews? tips & tricks08:43 – Pop-quiz: can YOU spot the set-list?11:10 – How live shows change your life13:47 – Discovering the Stones in the ’60s16:21 – First Stones show: Earl’s Court ’7617:21 – Rock tourism across five continents20:15 – The emotional pull of Rocks Off22:59 – Musical roots: jazz, blues & Charlie25:52 – Picking three desert-island tracks31:13 – “Too many classics!” song-choice agony34:44 – Rocks Off breakdown: horns, grooves, glory41:36 – Losing Charlie Watts & the band’s future49:53 – Steve Jordan’s fresh swing (no imitation)1:02:21 – Why venue size changes everything1:09:38 – Rail vs. nosebleeds: best seats?1:13:40 – From fan to reviewer: evolving passion1:39:30 – Social impact: friendships & charity1:43:48 – Fan-powered virtual Stones museum1:45:35 – OutroIt only takes three Stones songs to get this conversation started. Get in touch if you want to be on a future show.