Another extract from my book The Home Recording Handbook published by Dunlin Press earlier this year (links in bio/see Bandcamp). An ideal unwanted Christmas present. HOW ENGLAND GOT ITS ECHO In autumn of 1967 my family relocated to Balham in south-west London. A pop-crazed 14-year-old with my first guitar, I went out one day in search of somewhere selling guitar strings. As I walked down Balham High Road I came to a guitar shop called Watkins Electric Music and wandered in,

I got talking this week to a talented and very bright young songwriter in his mid 20s. He asked me whether or not I thought it was wise that he went into the music business. I told him that it was great, if that was what was calling you. But also warned him that there may be tough times ahead. I mean, I struggled, really struggled at times and suffered mockery, condescension, poverty and insult. Not constantly, but regularly for much of my young life. So here is an honest acc