Re-living the halcyon days of folk music in the 1960's and 1970's. Terry & Tony re-visit the Artistes and Folk Clubs and Concerts from Epping (Blacksmiths Arms), Loughton (Corbett Theatre), Leyton (William IV), Ongar (Kings Head), Islington (Pied Bull), Walthamstow (Crooked Billet) & where it started..Leyton High School..

Tony Kingsbury:

How did it start?..Around 1967…Oddly enough on our school football pitch. One of my school chums had acquired a copy of Simon & Garfunkel's "Sound of Silence" I was impressed!

Soon after, a school folk club was started by some Buffy St Marie fans. It met on Thursday lunchtimes in the chemistry lab. A folk evening had been arranged where an amazing singer named Hratch performed gems such as "Like a Rolling Stone" and Al Stewart’s "Swiss Cottage Manoeuvrers" We subsequently discovered that he was resident at Bunjies Coffee House where he'd taken over from the increasingly popular Al Stewart.

After several Bunjies jaunts we visited the Marquee Club where we were knocked out by Fairport Convention (In Dyble & Matthews time) with Al Stewart. We then went on to promote a concert, at school, featuring Al. who has remained a good friend ever since.

Another major influence was Ian A Anderson whose experience and advice was always available. It was he who largely responsible for broadening my musical interests. The rest, as they say.  ...............🎶

The shady looking, long-haired youths who started it all ! From left to right..Alan White, Terry Martin, Pete Stowe (RIP) and Tony Kingsbury

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"Ever present during my career have been Terry and Tony. From the first concert I ever did for them in 1969 when they were still at school, through the 'Walthamstow & Epping Years', to the present day. (2026- Al has just completed his 80th birthday "farewell Tour")

The boys have put together together a charity album "Down River recordings" which features my version of 'Memphis Tennessee' recorded at that first school concert. Over dinner with the boys in London a short while ago, I may have germinated the seed of an idea for them to return to concert promotion..If they do I'll be more than happy to play again!"

There are many joint memories over such a long period. Their friendship with my former manager Julia Creasy and members of my first band such as the late Isaac Guillory meant that, try as I might, regular meetings couldn't be avoided!
Despite my having lived in California since the '70s we have remained in contact. I wish them every success with this website, the album and ..the concerts?      Al.

Honoring a Rich Tradition

Martin and Kingsbury proudly celebrate the vibrant folk music heritage rooted in Essex's iconic venues. From the welcoming warmth of the Blacksmiths Arms in Epping to the historic stages of the Corbett Theatre in Loughton, our journey traces the soulful melodies and timeless stories that have defined the folk club scene. Our founders, Terry and Tony, bring decades of passion and experience, having nurtured these musical communities with heartfelt dedication.

Expertise in Folk Revival and Event Curation

With an expert eye for authentic folk artistry, Martin and Kingsbury specialize in reviving and curating events that bring the spirit of traditional folk music to life. We seamlessly blend nostalgia with contemporary celebration, crafting experiences that resonate with both longtime enthusiasts and new audiences. Our deep connections with venues like the William IV in Leyton and the Crooked Billet in Walthamstow ensure every event is steeped in history and vibrant energy.

Unique Offerings and Community Engagement

Beyond event management, we foster a sense of community and continuity, connecting generations through music. Our services extend to personalized folk music experiences, educational workshops, and collaborations with local artists, all designed to keep the folk tradition thriving. Starting from the roots at Leyton High Schools to the lively atmosphere of the Pied Bull in Islington, Martin and Kingsbury are your trusted partners in celebrating and sustaining the folk culture of Essex.