Keep Folk Talking by Openhouse Studio

Willy Russell: Legendary Playwright and songwriter on Keep Folk Talking

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 08:30:00 GMT

In this extended edition of Keep Folk Talking, Brian Jones is joined by legendary playwright and songwriter Willy Russell for a vivid journey back to the roots of a remarkable creative life.

https://openhousefolk.com/willy-russell/

From a childhood steeped in music before the days of television, through the electrifying discovery of The Beatles at the Cavern, Willy recalls the moments that shaped his artistic path. With warmth and wit, he reflects on early influences from Buddy Holly to Bob Dylan, the pull of the 1960s folk revival, and the vibrant Liverpool scene that saw him find his voice as a writer.

Through stories of the Spinners Club, the iconic Green Moose, and the friendships and chance encounters that defined an era, this is a rich, entertaining conversation about creativity, community, and the unpredictable moments that spark a lifetime in the arts.

Music credits:

“Any Father” and “Crazy Days” are taken from Willy Russell’s 2005 album Hoovering the Moon.

“Easy Terms” is performed by Barbara Dickson and Willy Russell, recorded live in studio.

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 Lupton Part 2 From Local Folk Clubs to International Festivals - Keep Folk Talking: S2 Ep5

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:12:55 GMT

Join Brian Jones as he continues his conversation with Brian Lupton, singer, organiser and long-standing figure on the Wirral folk scene. In Part 2, Brian reflects on the folk clubs and venues that kept the music alive, the artists who passed through the region, and the community that grew around the scene. With memories of legendary performers, local venues and the dedication behind organising live music, the conversation celebrates the people and places that helped shape folk music on the Wirral.

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Brian Lupton From Local Folk Clubs to International Festivals - Keep Folk Talking: S2 Ep4

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 08:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones as he sits down with Brian Lupton, a member of our Local Heros Series as a singer, organiser and long-standing figure on the Wirral folk scene. In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Brian reflects on childhood singalongs in Wallasey, discovering folk music in the 1960s, forming Kin Folk, and performing from local clubs to an international festival in East Germany - the foundations of a lifetime in music.

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Mal Jones on Keep Folk Talking: S2 Ep3

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 09:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones as he chats with Wirral folk stalwart Mal Jones - a singer, guitarist and self-described “musical gypsy” whose life in music began playing bugle in 1st Moreton Boys Brigade band and grew into decades of songs, clubs and friendships.

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Harvey Andrews on Keep Folk Talking: S2 Ep2

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 GMT

In this very special episode of Keep Folk Talking, Brian Jones sits down with one of his lifelong heroes, the songwriter and storyteller, Harvey Andrews.

From the moment he took a leap of faith from the classroom into the folk revival of the 1960s, Harvey reflects on a career shaped by conviction, melody and an unflinching honesty. Across memories of iconic songs, packed clubs, touring with Graham Cooper, and moments that shook audiences - and even Parliament - Harvey shares how stories heard, lives witnessed, and beliefs held became songs that still resonate today. It’s a conversation rich with humour, humility, and deep reflection on a life lived fully in song.

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Harry Lowrey and Arthur Garnett on Keep Folk Talking: Episode 1 (Series 2)

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 09:38:54 GMT

Brian Jones sits down with Harry Lowrey and Arthur Garnett, two towering figures of Liverpool’s folk and maritime music scene. Best known as founding members of Stormalong John, their voices helped carry traditional sea shanties from local folk clubs to major festivals across Europe. Drawing on more than six decades of singing together, Harry and Arthur share stories of harmony, history and the remarkable journey that made Stormalong John synonymous with songs of the sea.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 22 with Jacqueline McDonald

Thu, 20 Nov 2025 09:48:48 GMT

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.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 21 with Phil Chisnall

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Join Phil Chisnall in the latest episode of Keep Folk Talking, where he chats with host Brian Jones about a lifelong love of music - from sketching Beatles guitars in his schoolbooks to finding his place in the Wirral folk scene decades later. 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! Silly Wizard in Concert at the Great American Music Hall, San Francisco 1985

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 08:03:50 GMT

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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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 19 with Roger Parker

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:00:00 GMT

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.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 18 with Helen Sheppard

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:39:44 GMT

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.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 17 with David Littler

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 10:00:00 GMT

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"

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 16 with Alan Ainsworth

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 10:00:00 GMT

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.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 15 with Barry Evans

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

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.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 14 with Pete Leslie

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones in conversation with Pete Leslie, a singer-songwriter whose folk journey began with a cast-off guitar and a handful of chords. From freezing barn nights at Wrexham Folk Club to singing on beaches across Europe, Pete shares a gentle, honest story of music-making, friendship and finding the nerve to step into the spotlight – eventually.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 13 with Goff Jones

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones in conversation with Goff Jones as they trace his extraordinary journey through the heart of the North Wales and Chester folk scene. From his first shaky gigs as a teenager in Wrexham’s roughest pub, to performing with legends like Ralph McTell, Barbara Dixon, and even Billy Connolly, Goff shares stories full of humour, grit and soul.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 12 with Tom Topping

Sat, 19 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones in the studio for an unforgettable conversation with his longtime friend and legendary folk frontman, Tom Topping. Known nationwide for his wit, warmth and powerful stage presence, Tom shares a heartfelt journey through six decades of music, storytelling, and community.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 11 with Joe Topping

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones in the studio with part of the next generation of singer-songwriters, the incredibly talented Joe Topping. From his early days travelling with the TTB to carving out a career as a globe-trotting folk singer and multi-instrumentalist, Joe shares his unique musical journey in this episode of ‘Keep Folk Talking.’

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 10 with Richard Young

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones and Richard Young, the son of legendary folk hero Pete Young, known locally as ‘Youngy’, as they reflect on the life and legacy of this talented wordsmith and musician. Enjoy Brian and Richard taking you through the unforgettable journey of Youngy’s rise to fame, performing at local folk clubs in the 60s and 70s, and sharing stories of his wit, charm, and musical genius.

Discover Pete Young's incredible music here and find out more about us at Openhouse Folk,

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 9 with Gerry Ffrench

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones on Keep Folk Talking as he’s joined by singer-songwriter Gerry Ffrench, where she shares her musical journey, starting from her Irish grandmother’s unaccompanied singing at home. Gerry recounts her early influences, including Lonnie Donegan, and her dabble in punk bands, to rooting herself in folk music.

Discover hundreds of great back catalogues of loved folk artists and exciting back stories at Openhouse Folk.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 8 Live Broadcast with Dave Jones

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Imagine sitting down with a dear friend, catching up on life, reminiscing about shared memories, and reflecting on the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped your lives. That’s precisely what happened when Brian Jones decided to take his first stab at an outside broadcast, finding himself at Southport’s spinal rehabilitation centre with his old mate, Dave Jones.

Discover back catalogues of some of the finest folk artists of their generation at Openhouse Folk

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 7 Something Special from 1989

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

This one-off special on Keep Folk Talking truly is a piece of magic. It includes music dating back to 1974 and recalls musicians who were a part of the folk scene in the good old days.

Discover more, with hundreds of tracks and incredible stories at Openhouse Folk.

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 6 with John Owen

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

John Owen joins us to reminisce about an incredible life shaped by chance and a deep love for folk music. John shares the moments that transformed him from an amateur actor into a beloved folksinger and guitarist.

Discover more about John and all his music here.

If you like this, you will love our folk website, which is packed with hundreds of tracks from incredible artists, plus plenty of back stories and bonus material!

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 5 with John Finnan

Sat, 31 May 2025 23:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Keep Folk Talking, John Finnan joins Brian Jones to share his vivid tales of a musical upbringing, encounters with legends like Pete Seeger, the formation of the iconic Black Diamonds, and the inception of the Chester Folk Festival, all while celebrating a lifelong devotion to the vibrant folk music scene.

Find out more about John Finnan and listen to his music here.

Listen to hundreds of incredible folk tracks and discover our amazing story at openhousefolk.com

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 4 with Jack Owen

Sat, 24 May 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Join Brian Jones and his good friend Jack Owen as they delve into the life and career of the singer-songwriter himself on this episode of “Keep Folk Talking.”

Listen to all of Jack Owen's back catalogue - Jack Owen Music

Visit our website for more amazing music and stories - Openhouse Folk

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 3 Revisiting Rostock with The Tom Topping Band

Sun, 18 May 2025 10:52:30 GMT

Step back into 1985 with The Tom Topping Band’s unforgettable performance at Rostock, Germany.

In this episode of ‘Keep Folk Talking,’ the band shares insights into this memorable event and how they clinched second place in Germany’s version of the Eurovision Song Contest.

Discover more music from The Tom Topping Band here.

Visit our website for more amazing music - Openhouse Studio

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 2 with Brian Jones

Sun, 11 May 2025 10:28:53 GMT

Listen to Brian Jones, founder of Openhouse Studio, as he delves into the origins of his legacy project, https://openhousefolk.com, exploring the rich traditions, characters and stories that have shaped the North West folk music scene.

Listen to all of Brian's back catalogue and a host of incredible artists here - Brian Jones Folk Music, Openhouse Studio

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Keep Folk Talking: Episode 1 with Colin Henderson

Sun, 04 May 2025 09:32:37 GMT

The First episode of 'Keep Folk Talking', a brand new podcast by Brian Jones to accompany the Openhouse Studio Folk website. Brian talks to his long-term collaborator and friend, Colin Henderson, in this first fascinating episode about the local folk scene.

Listen to Colin Henderson's music and find out more about him here - https://openhousefolk.com/colin-henderson-singer/

Get in touch with us at studio@openhousefolk.com

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