Frank Allen: My Vintage

Formerly rhythm guitarist for the Rebel Rousers, The Searchers' bassist, Frank Allen, here introduces his top tracks, from Johnnie Ray's Just Walking In The Rain to The Band's Up On Cripple Creek.

Frank Allen certainly hit the ground running when he joined The Searchers as bassist in 1964: it was straight into PYE Studios to record the Top 10 hit, 'When You Walk In The Room', immediately followed by a mini world tour, which kicked off at the Fox Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. DJ Murray the K's show featured a stellar line-up, including Marvin Gaye, The Supremes, The Temptations, Martha & The Vandellas, The Dovells, The Shangri-las and The Ronettes.

In this Vintage TV exclusive, Frank tells of his musical inspirations, from Johnnie Ray, the "wildest musician of the 50s" and "wilder than Elvis" Gene Vincent, to Lonnie Donegan, "one of the most important musical influences in my life". He chronicles the UK's rock 'n' roll years with Cliff Richard and The Shadows, among others, and describes the American idols who the Brits tried to imitate in vain.

Allen goes on to talk of the artists he admired through the 60s, 70s and 80s, including the "subtle harmony band", Crosby, Stills & Nash, the "all time classic" Don Henley and the "undefinable quality" of Roxy Music's Bryan Ferry.

With almost 50 years' experience in the music industry, Frank has some awesome stories to tell, but it was picking his favourite songs that was an "almost impossible task".

It is no wonder, therefore, that he has ended up with a selection of such wonderful songs and legendary artists.

FRANK ALLEN: MY VINTAGE - Tuesday 15th May, 8.00pm