This page contains details of the Tour Programme put together for the 'Beauty of Hindsight' Judie Tzuke tour of September 12th through 29th 2003. The purpose of the Programme is to promote Judie Tzuke, to help cover the cost of the tour, to provide a service for her fans who want such a product and to provide an outlet for Judie's more devoted fans, i.e. the Programme developers, to return something to Judie. The original purpose of this website was as a tool to assist in the production of the Programme. It is now provided as a source of information both on Judie Tzuke but also for anyone planning a venture like this in the future.
The Tour Programme, and this site, was put together by Roderick Hoffman with the assistance of many other Judie Tzuke fans listed for page 19 and specifically referenced as appropriate throughout the pages.
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Click on each of the pages of the programme shown to the left to view each page and related details.
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Programme Timetable
Mid May : Official tour announcement by bigmoon.
May : "Tzukestock" members invited to participate and to offer ideas of content (in truth we had had a false start the previous November hence some ideas had not only been proposed then but had already been well progressed).
End May : Roderick to meet with big moon (i.e. Jamie and Judie) to review programme proposition and ideas for content.
Early June : Decision on proposed content and agreement from all concerned over what they needed to produce and by when. This website launched to enable all involved to share the vision of the final programme (we are scattered across the Internet and have never met as a group).
Mid June : Printer confirmed
Early July : Check that everything is on course - and revise plans on content to cover for items unavoidably dropped.
Mid August : 80% of content ready for review - checking by proof-readers starts.
August 22nd : Text in from all authors - final decisions over content and high-level layout.
August 26th : Copy delivered to printer for proof printing.
August 29th : Proof prints produced and distributed.
September 4th : Tour Programme fully proofread and copy updated/corrected.
September 5th/6th : Second proof produced and approved.
September 8th : Tour programme printed.
Sept 12th : First tour date.
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Copyright Notes
The purpose of copyright is to ensure that the creator of something gets due credit (including financial) for their creation. Diligently ensuring that copyright has been obtained correctly is a nightmare for a production such as this and the effect would be to slowdown or even prevent its development. The following was considered before deciding to give copyright diligence a wide berth:
1. The programme is not going to have a wide distribution nor is it to to be a big money earner.
2. Many images and ideas have been used within the programme but no single image or idea dominates any part of the programme other than the text and images that had been prepared specifically for it or for "The Beauty of Hindsight" CD.
3. Where known credits are given in the pages on this website.
Clipart - Where the text refers to clipart or library photos the source will most often be from a collection of 200,000 "Art Explosion" images licensed from Nova Development UK Ltd.
On-the-other-hand...
The text and images used in the Programme and on this website are copyright by their creators and the Programme as a whole is copyright by me. However anyone who wants to copy some or all of the programme and use it to promote Judie Tzuke in some way is likely to be welcome to do so - ask and credit as appropriate.
Roderick Hoffman - Sept 2003
Peter Cox took time out from his activities with Go West and his solo work following his featuring on "Reborn in the USA" to write the following for Judie...
In the summer of 1996 I was working with
Peter-John Vettese at his house. We were recording Dave Goodes playing
guitar when a complaint from the neighbours about the volume brought the
session to an abrupt end. We were recording again an hour later thanks to
Judie and Paul and their offer of the Big Ocean studio - a gesture entirely
typical of them and the first of too many kindnesses to list here.
Some months later Judie and Paul asked me if I'd like to write and record
with them at Big Ocean - and so began a collaboration resulting in at least
seven songs, some of which you are now familiar with.
I thought you might appreciate some insight into the process. Dave, Paul and
I would create a loose instrumental idea over which I might have some
melodies. At this stage Judie - who prefers not to hear an idea in
development so that she can let her first impression suggest a lyrical theme
- would join us. In about half an hour she would have a title, a melody and
a good portion of a lyric. She would then leave me to agonise and fine tune
for...three or four days, no doubt wondering what on earth could possibly
take so long! It was an exciting few weeks, and the vocal sessions for the
tracks were the most relaxed and enjoyable of my experience. Dave, Paul and
I contemplated a t-shirt with the slogan "I survived the London Pride
Sessions…"!
My recordings of these songs were deemed ‘uncommercial’ by those who profess
to know these things. So I am proud and happy that Judie believed in the
songs enough to include some of them on "Queen Secret Keeper". I was
introduced to Judie's music by Richard, my partner in Go West, and first saw
her (and Paul!) performing the “Ritmo” album at the Dominion Theatre. I have
seen many of her shows since. Her determination, independence and refusal to
compromise - not to mention THAT voice - are inspirational. She is a
treasure, and I am proud - and I hope not presumptuous! - to call her my
friend. I wish you a memorable evening…
Peter Cox
And some more information about Peter...
Peter Cox co-wrote “Drive” and four other tracks from the
“Queen Secret Keeper” album. He broke into the music business in 1985,
forming “Go West” with his friend Richard Drummie. They had numerous
worldwide hit albums and singles, including “We Close Our Eyes”, “Call
Me”, “Faithful” and “The King Of Wishful Thinking” from the “Pretty
Woman” film. Peter explored a variety of avenues in the 90’s, including
issuing an eponymously titled CD (recently reissued) and recording a
film soundtrack 'Corinna Corinna'. Earlier this year he came back to
widespread public attention through ITV’s “Reborn In The USA” series.
For Peter this was a very eventful experience which included him not
only arriving as a last minute stand-in, but almost stealing the whole
show.
Return to Contents
Judie is releasing a new album, “The Beauty Of Hindsight – Vol. 1”, which should be available at tonight’s gig. The songs on all her previous albums have been predominantly her own. This album marks a departure, in that she has achieved a long-standing ambition – to record a “covers” album, featuring songs that she has grown up with, by artistes who have had an influence on her musically.
Judie began by telling me about the covers album, and how it came about...
We’ve always talked about doing one – we’ve really been working on it, on and off for years. I’ve recorded a few other covers in the past… “Jesus Was A Cross Maker” (Judee Sill) and “God Only Knows” (Beach Boys) were the forerunners. I just wanted a chance to sing some of the songs that I grew up with over the years. I didn’t want to make a major deal out of it, you know. I wanted them to be fun to sing – it’s always difficult when you record someone else’s songs anyway . I’ve given it the best shot I could, and I hope that I haven’t ruined them for anybody.
Sometimes I was scared of damaging other people’s memories of them, but once I got to the point where I realised that I wasn’t trying to do better versions of them, but was just doing it for my own pleasure, then it was easier. It was still hard though, as some of the songs I wanted to do I couldn’t make my own, so the songs that are on the album are sometimes representing a whole bunch of songs. There are loads of other songs that I would like to do, so you never know, there may be a “Volume 2” one day, but not immediately.
We’ve also kept it very simple this time…the vocals are very dry, without any reverb or effects. It’s what my voice really sounds like! Whilst we were making the album, I learned that it’s easier to record your own music than other people’s, as I found it difficult to be too creative without ruining it. Some people have recorded covers and made them completely unrecognisable – which I don’t like. I choose to do things more true to the original – how I remember them, and how I used to sing them in the car, or in the shower. They were all songs that I loved to sing along to, or work out harmonies for.
Judie has covered songs by a diverse range of artists on this album – from America to Neil Young, via Crowded House and John Martyn. I asked her whether she still listens to a broad range of music?
Absolutely…at the moment I’m listening to Maxwell, Outlandish, India Irie, Gerard de Palmas – he’s really great, sings in French, and I don’t really know what he’s singing about, but he sings it with such emotion. Celine Dion has covered one of his songs (“10 Days”) on a recent album. He was a lot like me before Celine discovered him – had a small, very loyal following and kept going. Since her involvement he’s sold over 100,000 albums in France! I wish she’d do “Joan Of Arc”! (laughs). It would be amazing if she sang it the way she did the theme from Titanic - she has an amazing voice.
We moved on to discuss some of the tracks on the new album, “The Beauty of Hindsight”….
Smokey Robinson, “Tracks Of My Tears”. This was one of many from the Tamla Motown era that I loved. What a great song. I think anyone who has been hurt and has had to pretend that they’re OK can relate to it. I don’t know anyone who hasn’t been in that situation at some time.
“May You Never”, John Martyn. He was a very early influence for me. When I was about 15 I met a man who claimed to manage both John and Beverly Martyn, AND Sandy Denny!!! I never knew for sure if he did, but I was really impressed and went and bought all I could find to listen to. John Martyn played the best guitar I’d ever heard – I eventually gave up playing guitar myself as I realised I would never be as good as him!
“Hey Jude”, The Beatles. I actually met them once when I was about 7, and had my picture taken with all 4 of them. I had them all in one of those white plastic wedding photo albums, and I swapped it for something… can’t remember what it was… obviously unimportant. It’d be amazing if they were still out there, and I’d love to have them back – somebody must have them, of course they’d recognise the Beatles, but not the little girl with them….that was me!
“Goodbye”, Elton John. Taken from “Madman Across The Water”, my fave Elton album. Given my history, I wanted to sing one of his songs as in so many ways his company and music has had a huge influence on my career. I hope he likes it!
“Fall At Your Feet”, Crowded House. A friend from EMI gave me a cassette of “Woodface” long before it was released. Even back then we were planning a covers album, and I remember ringing Paul (Muggleton) and saying that I wanted to sing this one – it makes me cry. I wish it had been written for me, and it feels like it was!
“You Shouldn’t Know These Things”, Maxwell. Very similar lyrically to “Fall At Your Feet”, and just one of the most beautiful songs that I have ever heard. I cried the first time I heard it, and still do.
"You Send Me”, Steve Miller. Complete with vocals recorded backwards! ( laughs). I used to use it to practice my vocal harmonies and control. It helped me in the art of “twiddly bits” and was a great song to sing in the shower.
So that’s just a taster of some of the tracks on the album - Judie has also done version of songs by America, Poco, Stephen Stills, Kayah, Robert Palmer, Jackson Browne and Neil Young.
The musicians who played on the album were mostly past and present members of her band….
Paul Beavis (drums), Dave Goodes and Graham Kearn (guitar), and on keyboards we had Richard Cardwell, and, wait for it…Bob (Noble) as well! I did most if not all of the backing vocals!
Finally I asked Judie about the title “Beauty of Hindsight”. Did the title have any special significance for her – with hindsight was there anything in her career that she would do differently, given the chance?
Only that I would enjoy each day for what it brings, and not read my own press, good or bad! It used to affect me a lot – everyone has an opinion, and you can’t please everybody. I WANTED to, and used to get very upset when I couldn’t. But I think I’ve learnt from that, and now I make sure that what I do is right for me. I love being in control of things musically, it’s what I think I’m good at and what I do best.
And so say all of us! So there you have it – the thoughts of Judie Tzuke on the origins of her new album, “The Beauty Of Hindsight”. Judie said she will probably play 4 or 5 tracks from it tonight, together with maybe a few of her own new, as yet unrecorded, songs!
So sit back and enjoy the show – it’s going to be a great night!
Huw Knight
Under the Covers by Mike Melnyk
The original meaning of a cover record was a single, issued at the same time as the original, made to compete with the original for airplay and sales. What Judie has done is record her own versions of these 14 tracks – not to compete but to compliment.
Track One is “Tracks Of My Tears”, originally by Smokey Robinson And The Miracles. They recorded it for the Tamla Motown Records release “Going To A Go-Go” in 1965, with it also being issued as a single. However, neither record made an impression in the UK. But it was a different story when the track was re-released in 1969, going to number 9 and staying on the charts for 13 weeks. William Robinson's nickname of Smokey is said to have been given to him by an uncle, because of his liking for cowboy movies.
“May You Never” is a John Martyn track, taken from his 1973 Island Records release of “Solid Air”. It was also issued as a single, although that is a different version to the album track. John was born in New Malden Surrey, named Iain David McGeachy and is alleged to have taken the name of Martyn after spotting a Martin guitar whilst thinking of a stage name.
Track Three is “Hey Jude” which was the first single released by The Beatles on their own Apple label in 1968. Like many of their releases it went all the way to the number one spot. It made a reappearance in 1976 reaching number 12 and again in 1988 reaching number 52. Unlike the normal practice within the record industry nowadays, “Hey Jude” did not appear on an album, it was issued as a single only but it has subsequently been issued on many Beatles’ compilation albums.
“Head And Heart” is another John Martyn composition, but Judie's version is based on the version by the band America which appears on their 1972 Warner Brothers release, “Homecoming”. It was in the charts for five weeks and reached number 21. The band was formed in Watford in 1968 with all three members being sons of U.S. servicemen based in the U.K.
Track Five also has a Watford connection, being Elton John's “Goodbye”, taken from his “Madman Across The Water” album on the DJM Record label. It was released in 1972 and is a bit of a rarity for Elton, as it only made number 41 in the charts and does not contain any hit singles.
Track Six is Crowded House's “Fall At Your Feet”, taken from their successful (it reached number 17 in the charts) “Woodface” album released on the Capitol label in 1991. Crowded House were formed after the demise of Split Enz and are so called because of their cramped living conditions when they were based in Los Angeles.
Track Seven is Judies version of Maxwell's “Know These Things: Shouldn't You” which is taken from his “Embrya” album released on the Columbia label. It was on the charts for 6 weeks reaching No 11 in June 1998. Maxwell is from Brooklyn, New York and records using his middle name - as a tribute to his father who was killed in a plane crash.
Track Eight is Judie's version of the Poco track “I Can See Everything”, which is taken from 1972's “A Good Feeling To Know” and was issued on the Capitol label. The track was written by Timothy B. Schmit who went on to join the Eagles in 1979 for their album “The Long Run” which was their last before splitting up. He was also there for the “Hell Freezes Over” reunion album and tour in 1994.
“We Are Not Helpless” is taken from the self-titled Stephen Stills album released on the Atlantic label. It made number 30 in the charts in November 1970 staying for only one week. Other artists to appear on this album are fellow Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young band members, David Crosby and Graham Nash along with Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix.
Track Ten is “Trudno Kochac” which translates to “Hard To Love” and is taken from the self-titled RCA Victor album by Kayah and Bregovic, which was released in 1999. It is based on an Andrew Marvell poem translated into Polish, Judie liked the sound so much she has had it translated back.
Track Eleven was originally by Robert Palmer. , “Want You More” is taken from his album “Pride” on the Island label. It first entered the album chart in April 1983 staying there for 9 weeks peaking at number 37. In the early 70's Robert was in a band called Vinegar Joe, sharing vocal duties with Elkie Brooks. With both of these artists going on to major success, it is difficult to understand why Vinegar Joe were not more successful.
“Lives In The Balance” is a Jackson Browne track that comes from the album of the same name. It made number 36 in the charts, staying there for 7 weeks in 1986. This is Judie’s second go at this track, having originally recorded it for the Various Artists album “Poppies” on the Dressed For Peace label in 1997.
Track Thirteen is Judie’s version of Neil Young's “Birds”, taken from his 1970 Reprise Records release “After The Gold Rush”. It remained on the UK charts for 68 weeks, peaking at number 7. As an example of what a small world it was in the U.S. music scene, Neil appeared with Stephen Stills in the group Buffalo Springfield and C.S.N.&Y. Also in Buffalo Springfield was Richie Furay who later on went on to form the group Poco, whose first live concert was opening for the Steve Miller Band.
Track Fourteen is based on the vocal harmonies of the Steve Miller Band's version of “You Send Me”, which appeared on Mercury Records “Fly Like An Eagle” in 1976. The original was written and recorded by Sam Cooke for the 1958 single release on London Records. It made number 29 in the charts staying for just a solitary week.
Mike Melnyk
Judie Tzuke’s career is fairly well documented, but a fresh new talent has been quietly moving closer to the spotlight. Most recently, Judie’s eldest daughter Bailey has become an essential fixture as backing vocalist and is winning admirers in her own right,
Asking the questions, Rachel Good & Lucy Finn...
Can you remember where and when you first appeared on stage?
I was in something called “Stagecoach” singing “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor. I think I was about 6 at the time.
Do you get stage fright before a concert?
Yes definitely! But even more when I’m doing Mum’s songs because they’re so lovely and I don’t want to mess them up!
What was it like going on a full tour for the first time?
Great fun, everyone in the band gets on so well together.
When you’re away on tour, how do you cope with school work?
My school gave me assignments in advance which I had to get done. But most days when we were close to home I had to go to school.
Are they understanding about touring?
The performing side of the staff were OK. as you would think, but the academic teachers were not happy about it at all, I had to promise to complete all of my work before they let me, they’re very strict on attendance there.
Do you get to look around the towns and cities you perform in?
The days off are fun because the girls go shopping! I don’t know what the boys do. Glasgow was a lovely city, the hotel was great, and Manchester was fun too.
Who inspires you?
Hmmm! No Doubt have been a favourite of mine for ages, Brandy, Pink, Christina Aguilera, oh and a band called Outlandish. They’re Danish and play a sort of mixture of Arabic, Latin - American, ethnic Asian rap type stuff, it’s very different but very good.
Are you learning any instruments?
I tried the piano once, but I wasn’t very good, the theory is hard. Apart from that no, but I would like to play something in the near future.
Are your own songs a similar style to your Mum’s?
No, not at all.
Do you ever write with her?
When I get an idea I usually write it all out in my head, then I sing it into a Dictaphone. Mum listens to it and tidies it up then Dad sorts out the music bit in the studio.
What’s it like to record your own material?
It’s really great to get to do your own stuff; it’s more comfortable to sing.
Are we likely to see a release soon?
Maybe, we’ll see!
Do you help choose the songs for your Mum’s albums?
I’ve helped choose a couple on the new covers album, the Maxwell track is a favourite of mine.
Are you going to perform anything solo on the tour?
Hopefully, if the band can work around my music because it’s a bit all over the place at the moment!
How long does it take to record your vocals, like on “Bully”?
It depends, “Bully” didn’t take long ‘cos it was recorded roughly on purpose to sound like angry people, but the backing vocals for “Dancing On Charcoal” took ages to get right!
What bands do you listen to and have you been to any concerts lately?
I listen to all sorts. I saw Busted and a heavy metal band called Disturbed, I am going to see Craig David and Justin Timberlake later in the year but I don’t go to many really.
Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of music?
Dance and drama, I’ve always done dance but drama is a new thing for me, I’ve even chosen them as options for school next year. I think drama is my favourite, along with music of course!
“Thank you very much for answering all our questions and good luck with everything!”
Catherine Young has collated the following questions from fans and Judie has kindly answered:
Chris Maison-Jones: What has been the biggest advantage of “going independent” with your own label?
Judie: Having the choice of what I do, where I do it and with whom I like - and knowing that whatever happens I have control of my music and as long as my audience still wants to hear me, I can still make albums.
Nick Rogers: Years ago, in the days of the “Judie Tzuke Fan Club” you said your favourite album was “Hejira” by Joni Mitchell. Is that still your favourite album and if not, what is it ?
Judie: It is certainly one of my favourites, but really after listening to so many ’favourites’ trying to choose for the covers album, it would have to be a combination of lots of different albums. For example Marvin Gaye, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, Jackson Browne, Free … all the usual suspects!
Gary Hughes: That enigmatic sleeve note on “Welcome To The Cruise” has had us all guessing for years: Why did you once think you might become a fire engine?
Judie: Just a bit of fun really; I was very little and that's what I said I wanted to be when I grew up. Nothing more.
Roderick Hoffman: If you went back in time to the late 70s, what advice would you give yourself?
Judie: Not to take myself so seriously, and not to cry when I read my bad reviews, and not to listen to the good ones either. But mostly to enjoy each day without worrying about the future.
Nadia Summers: Which of your songs would you most like to see covered by another artist and which artist would you choose?
Judie: “Joan of Arc” by Celine Dion. I think she has an amazing voice but I don't always like her choice of songs.
Catherine Young: It's inevitable that “Stay With Me Till Dawn” follows you around wherever you go. But if you could choose your own "signature track", which one of your songs would you pick?
Judie: “For You”, “Joan Of Arc” or “Bring The Rain”; they are all very personal but it really depends what mood I'm in. All my songs are my signatures at some time.
Alan Long: I always wondered if you ever forgave Pax for breaking your nose!!! ...and if you think your voice changed as a result?
Judie: Forgive!!! Of course not!!!!! But I don't think it changed my voice much. I met a great singer who was working with Craig David the other day and he was in the audience in the Liverpool Empire when it happened. I wish I'd seen it.
David Dallimore: Which comes first, the music or the lyrics? Do you set aside a day in your diary to write, or is it more spontaneous?
Judie: It is never the same twice and it doesn't really happen when I plan it. I often write words and music in my car when I'm least expecting it. I've had many near misses trying to find my Dictaphone and quite a few embarrassing moments at traffic lights singing my head off. So not a very clear answer, sorry!
Graham Le Fevre: What was the defining moment in your life when you realised that your gift was more than a passing fancy or hobby?
Judie: I really don't remember ever considering anything else, I am very dyslexic and failed dismally at anything else I attempted, so it wasn't really a decision I could make as it was the only way I could express myself and I loved doing it.
Mick Danby: What would be your favourite all time backing band line up?
Judie: I think a combination of all of my friends who have played with me would be great.
Nick R: What are the chances of the old 80's line up having a reunion gig? It would be great!
Judie: There is always a chance; I am still close to most of them and if we were all at the same place at the same time, anything is possible.
Colin Emery: I seem to recall someone lurking around with a video camera on the “Secret Agent” tour. Would Big Moon consider releasing a DVD of the more recent gigs with the latest band and new material?
Judie: Yes, that was our friend Rick and if we can ever afford to edit it then yes!
Keith Waye: I've just gone through my old Video collection and found a worn copy of the set that the band did at Glastonbury years ago. Do you remember this particular set and do you think there's a possibility of releasing it on DVD. It was a great set!!!!!
Judie: I don't think we have the rights to it but I remember it really well as I had a very sore throat and was about to stop the show when I noticed that Jackson Browne was standing at the side of the stage watching me. My performance of “For You” was one of the best ever and somehow my throat miraculously felt better. It was a wonderful gig for me.
Dave Stephenson: If you could sing on anyone's record, whose would it be and why?
Judie: I would like to sing on a French singer called Gerald de Palma’s album; he has made two that I know about. I sing all my harmonies at the top of my voice in the car with his CDs, I don't really know why. He has a great voice, he sings in French and he writes songs that have big emotion even though I don't know what he's singing about. We have talked about it so one day I probably will!
Tony Burt: Which female artists inspire you, and do you choose to listen to?
Judie: Joni Mitchell, Bonnie Raitt from my past and I listen to Sarah McLachlan and Imogen Heap. I like some India Arie. There are quite a few interesting girl singers around now.
Madcat: Where do titles “Sukarita” and “Black Furs” come from?
Judie: “Sukarita” was a made up name meant to sound romantic and faraway, and “Black Furs” was about a girl I knew that used to wear a black fur coat… the rest is in the lyrics.
Ian Monckton: Do you still ‘plan’ to live in France one day? ... If so where and why?
Judie: I would still like to and it would have to be in the south. I think I love it so much from when I went to St Tropez on my first holiday without my parents and I ended up busking for 3 months, meeting many amazing people, making new friends and generally having the best time of my younger life. But I don't know if I could ever repeat that time so I don't know if I'll ever get to live there, but it’s been a great inspiration for my songs.
Catherine Young
An A to Z put together by Shaun Bateman with additional content by Phil Sears, Tony Kavanagh and myself.
A is for Audition
Judie first approached Rocket Records in 1973 and they liked the two songs she performed for them. Unfortunately these were the only two she had, so she bluffed, saying she had twenty more. When they asked her to return with them, she didn’t dare go back!
B is for Big ocean & Big moon
In 1985 Judie and Paul laid the foundations for their own recording studio at the bottom of their garden. Called Big Ocean Studios, all of her albums since Turning Stones have been produced here. Big Moon is the name of Judie’s very own record label formed in 1995. Every album since “Under The Angels” has been released on this label, allowing Judie more much control over her own destiny. In a Times review of December 6th 1996, Judie was described as "not only Big Moon’s principal artist but also head of press and promotions and chief packer".
C is for Cover versions.
Judie has only recorded a handful of Cover Versions over the years. The most obvious being the Beach Boys classic “God Only Knows” released by Judie as a single in 1990. Other notables are Judee Sill’s “Jesus Was A Cross Maker” and Free’s “the hunter” which only appears on the live official bootleg “Road Noise”. She’s made up for it now though with “The Beauty Of Hindsight”, a whole album full of her personal favourites. This is volume one suggesting that there may be more to come.
D is for Debut
“Welcome To The Cruise” was Judie’s first and (given her long musical career) prophetically titled album. Released on Elton John’s Rocket Record label in 1979, it remains a seminal work containing a clutch of classic and timeless songs that Judie still performs with a freshness today. “Ladies Night”, “Sukarita”, “Bring The Rain”, “For You”, “Stay With Me Till Dawn” and of course the grand opening title track itself, can all be found here.
E is for Early Influences
Judie’s earliest musical influences include, Stevie Wonder, Sandy Denny, Marvin Gaye, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and Jackson Browne. Judie has also enjoyed listening to Steely Dan (an influence particularly apparent on “Queen Secret Keeper”), Joan Osborne and vocal talents of Free/Bad Company front-man Paul “The Hunter” Rodgers.
F is for Fan Power
The amazing resilience and loyalty of her fans means she can survive without the support of a major record label via sales through her Internet site (www.tzuke.com). A small group of Judie’s loyal fans have pulled together to write and produce this tour programme as well as the previous three.
G is for Guests
Guests who have appeared on Judie’s songs include Queen guitarist Brian May, violin legend Nigel Kennedy and saxophonist Andy Sheppard - a formidable and fearless jazz improviser. Guests who have provided support for Judie during her tours include another G – the group Graduate. They were guests on Judie’s 1980 “Sportscar” tour but a few years later become more successful after they changed their name to Tears For Fears.
H is for Bob Harris
He of the famous whispering voice is a long-time JT supporter and regularly plays her music on his BBC Radio 2 shows. In recognition, his dulcet tones can be heard at the end of the track “Drive” on Judie’s album “Queen Secret Keeper”. They are good friends and Judie was featured on the recent “This Is Your Life” programme on Bob Harris. She personally thanked Bob for helping her to keep going by continuing to play her songs on his shows.
I is for Internet
Judie was amongst the first artists to promote and sell her albums predominantly via the Worldwide Web. At www.tzuke.com you can buy many of her albums, download sample tracks, read about her career, check the latest news and air your views via the lively notice board.
J is for Elton John
Elton John was a key figure in Judie’s early career. As well as being signed to Elton’s own record label, Rocket, she supported Elton on his 1980 tour of America, playing in front of 450,000 people in New York’s Central Park. In December 1999 Elton gave Judie back the copyright to her first three albums originally released on his label. This allowed Big Moon to remix and re-issue them, thus enabling “I Am The Phoenix” to be made available to fans on CD for the first time.
K is for Kids
Judie and her music producer partner Paul Muggleton have two daughters – Bailey & Tallula. Bailey frequently sings with Judie both on record and on stage and has recently started recording in her own right.
L is for Lyrics
Judie is quite evidently a lyricist's lyricist, The songs are often very personal and revealing -frequently drawing inspirational roots from the relationship experiences of herself and close friends. Her songs have also covered a number of very serious issues (“Bully”, “She Loves His Hands”, “City Of Swimming Pools”, etc.). Any Tzuke penned album is an emotional rollercoaster, stopping at Love & Affection certainly, but not afraid to call in at Fear, Hate, Regret, and Loneliness too…
M is for Muggleton, Paul & Jamie
Since Paul performed on and produced Judie’s second album “Sportscar” in 1980, he’s been a constant musical presence in her life, helping to produce all her albums, becoming her partner and the father of her two daughters. Jamie is Paul’s son from his previous marriage. He manages the business side of Big Moon, he is head of merchandising and he finds the time to join Judie on stage to lend his vocal prowess to songs like “Bully”.
N is for Nose job
Judie will never forget the time guitarist Mike Paxman broke her hooter on stage, thanks to his exuberant guitar wielding, OUCH!
O is for On stage
Over the years Judie has often voiced her reluctance to perform in front of an audience. In 1996 she sought help in the form of hypnotherapy. On recent tours she has looked a lot more self-assured, though this could easily be attributed to her admission that she is simply more relaxed about herself as a whole.
P is for Parents
Judie’s mother Jean Silverside was an actress, appearing in films and Popular TV series including “The Fall And Rise Of Reginald Perrin”. Judie’s father, Sefton Myers, a successful Park Lane property developer and manager of stage artists, was known for his involvement in the production of “Jesus Christ Superstar”.
Q is for Queen Secret Keeper
Known amongst her friends as being a very good listener when they needed to unload their personal problems in confidence, one acquaintance dubbed her the “Queen Secret Keeper” hence the title of her recent studio album.
R could be for Relocation?
French lyrics have crept into several of Judie’s songs over recent years, reflecting the country’s place in her affections. The track “One Day I Will Live In France”, confirms her dream of one day owning a second home there. Fans shouldn’t worry though, she’s quoted as saying she’d like to spend more time there: “but a permanent move would be a big thing!”
S must be for Stay with me till dawn
Judie’s second single release from “Welcome To The Cruise”, it spent 16 weeks in the UK charts and she made three appearances on Top of the Pops. It was recently voted 39 in BBC Radio 2’s top 50 songs by British groups or singer-songwriter in the last 50 years. The song was once more a Top 40 hit in October 1999, this time the song was a cover-version recorded by UK group, Lucid.
T is for Tzuke and Paxo
Judie formed a duo with guitarist Mike Paxman called Tzuke And Paxo, aiming to be the English musical equivalent of Hall And Oates. In 1977 they released a single called “These Are The Laws”, a track that would also appear on her first solo album “Welcome To The Cruise”. Mike Paxman continued to support Judie throughout her career, playing on and producing many of her albums. He’s now taken on the vital role of running Judie’s website.
U is for the fans favourite Understanding
A track from the Judie’s album “Sportscar” voted the all-time favourite track by her fans. ‘U’ also stands for “Unfortunate” since Judie describes “Understanding” as being one of the most difficult of her songs to perform!
V is for Vivien
A song inspired by the actress Vivien Leigh. Judie admits to having wanted to look like Vivien Leigh: little, black-haired and waif-like, and even at mad moments to have been deeply upset that she didn’t. Judie has described herself as being like Vivien at times - ”a little eccentric”.
W is for Woman’s work
Over the last 23 years Judie has released 13 studio albums, five live albums and several compilation albums. She’s toured over a dozen times. She’s contributed tracks for compilation albums such as the YES tribute album “Wondrous Stories”. The Art Of Noise, Rush, Nick Kamen and Gary Moore are just some of the artists who have utilized Judie’s unique voice (and many of her contributions go uncredited). She’s also been a full time mother for the last sixteen years.
X is for X-members
Ex-members of Judie’s backing band Jeff Rich and Rhino Edwards joined legendary rockers Status Quo in 1986. Jeff Rich left Quo a couple of years ago and was replaced by Matthew Letley, also one of Judie’s ex-drummers. Bassist Rhino remains and is an integral part of the band, co-writing much of their new material.
Y has to be For You
Does anybody know who ‘you’ is ? This track is a triple ‘F’ song, (‘Firm Fan Favourite’) and is notable for three things; 1) The actual phrase “for you” although quite distinctly sung by Judie (twice) appears nowhere in the song lyrics on the sleeve, 2) The original album version has Judie’s voice overdubbed several times to produce the many layered, and ethereal sonic harmony. 3) The simply arranged, beautifully sung, live version on “Over The Moon” (1999).
Z is for t-Zuke
Judie’s grandfather changed the family name from the Polish Tzuke (pronounced "ZOOK") when they came to Britain in the 1920’s, believing that the local name Myers would help them blend into their Yorkshire community better. Judie switched her name back to Tzuke in 1975. The name is so unusual she isn’t 100% sure it’s spelt correctly!
Research and text by Darren Hirst
A few years ago when musicians started to make their presence felt on the World Wide Web and it all seemed very strange and new, not many would have expected Judie Tzuke to be at the forefront of the movement towards an internet presence. Perhaps you might have predicted some of the techie types who appear in “Future Music” magazine or those artists who use their Macs extensively in arriving at compositions, but Judie Tzuke?
But so it was! After a couple of albums that Judie felt were badly promoted by the major labels she was signed to, she decided to strike out on her own. With the help of friends and colleagues, Big Moon Records was established, which would rely on the internet to generate sales and reputation for her ongoing work – alongside a yearly sequence of well-placed concerts like the one you’re attending tonight. And Judie’s approach wasn’t to be for the fainthearted. She didn’t go down the twin highways of internet presence and limited distribution into the bigger stores. No, her venture would require people to seek her out on the ’net to obtain those new recordings.
This new venture achieved an ironic outcome. After several years of being not exactly the centre of media attention, Judie’s new approach to marketing her albums brought renewed interest from both the specialist and general press alike. Publications as diverse as Q, Billboard and The Times gave reviews to “Under The Angels” in 1996, having previously paid little attention to “Turning Stones” and “Left Hand Talking”. Encouraged by this, a number of her fans have struck out with their own websites to encourage others to listen to Judie’s recordings.
The centrepiece of the Tzuke presence on the web has always been and continues to be www.tzuke.com . This is the official Judie Tzuke website. Designed and maintained by Mike Paxman (who long-term listeners will remember as the guitarist on, and co-composer of, many of Judie’s earliest recordings), it is also the place to find the very latest news from the world of Big Moon – ably provided by Jamie Muggleton at the record company office. It has an archive of all Judie-related reviews, articles and interviews going back to the launch of Big Moon and before. It also has the usual fan-centred areas like the Message Board where you can go and voice your views on this tour and the new album. Most importantly, it is the place to find all of Judie’s recordings and be able to purchase them over the ’net by credit card.
A search engine will give you a complete list of the unofficial fan-run websites but here are some of the best in no particular order.
Let’s go first to www.daviesmusic.co.uk/judie/judie.htm which is the home of the unlikely-named Davie Damnation’s web site about Judie. This is a veritable treasure trove of all things relating to Ms. Tzuke as Davie shares his photos, scans of tour t-shirts, badges and picture sleeves as well as interviews, photos and a complete list of concert dates. Davie hopes one day to finish his book about Judie. Keep an eye on his site to monitor his progress!
An unusual, innovative site can be found at
www.capable.demon.co.uk/tzuke/ which has a rich selection of chord charts aimed at those musicians who are interested in recreating the sound of those classic Tzuke recordings. Mick Danby is your host on this venture and it is clear that he has worked hard at bringing us these very accurate recreations.
If performing is your thing, you’ll be interested to know that a group of Judie fans have put together a part-time musical project and related website that they have named “Tzukerita”. Working on home studio facilities they have recorded a number of Judie’s songs and you can hear them at http://kickme.to/tzukerita .
www.rhoff.org.uk/tzuke.htm is the address for Roderick Hoffman’s website. Roderick is crucially involved in the design and production of this very tour programme and his is the site to go to see the design work for the 2002 “Queen Secret Keeper” concert booklet as well as concert photos from the 2000 tour, a screen saver (the inspiration for the back cover of this programme) and an amusing story based around the titles of Judie’s songs.
www.melynk.freeserve.co.uk/ is Mike Melynk’s site which attempts to list and provide details of every Judie related disc ever. A tall order indeed if you try to imagine how many compilation albums “Stay With Me Till Dawn” has featured on - guess a number and then go and count them on Mike’s site.
Judie’s fans have their own independent discussion group. This group has over 100 members – many of whom have been listening to Ms. Tzuke’s music since the days of “Welcome To The Cruise” and are only too happy to talk to you about it. The group can be found at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tzukestock
Those seeking rare or out-of-print releases of Judie’s music could be well served by heading to www.gemm.com for fixed price purchases or www.ebay.co.uk for those who favour the buzz of the online auction. GEMM has listings from 1500 stores and individuals selling all manner of music and memorabilia from every country you can think of. ebay has risen to be the chief auction site for music collectors.
All-in-all there are many reasons for lovers of Judie’s music to make good use of the internet. In fact you’ll find that the ‘links’ page from www.tzuke.com will take you to most of these places of interest and many more.