0c Fair
The Bootleg Sixties
CELEBRITIES? A bunch of over- exposed posers too concerned about their public image to throw their bling to the wind and have a good time? Not according to Den Pugsley – and he would know.
The lead singer of tribute act The Overtures is no stranger to the world of bigwigs and superstars. His group were handpicked by none other than celebrity overlord Sir Elton John to play at the ceremony following his civil partnership with David Furnish.
“It was an absolute privilege to play there. Elton John does know how to throw a good party,” remembers Den.
He surprisingly adds: “I’d have to say it’s the best crowd you can play to. The celebrities really get into it – you find entertainers really are a good audience.”
An impressive client list does not stop there – they count figures as diverse as Lulu and David Frost among their customers.
“We also played Elvis Costello’s wedding which was in part organised by Elton John.
That’s where he spotted us and asked us to play his ceremony,” he adds.
For a chance to see what keeps the celebs so enamoured, The Overtures bring The Bootleg Sixties show to Rhyl Pavilion on August 28.
The show draws from a repertoire of all the great music from all the classic artists of the decade, and is back-dropped by nostalgic visual footage.
The life of a tribute act such as this is not all champagne and canapés stresses the lead singer. “It’s special when you get to play shows like that, it’s only every now and then and that’s not all we’re about. We love touring and playing.
“All of the group paid their dues in bands. You get into it to have hit records but you need a lot of luck. I still write which is very important to me but this is a very happy sideline.”
Sharing bills with the likes of Elton John and Blondie is far beyond anything Den could have imagined.
“When you listen to these songs when you’re younger you dream of playing them. This is beyond our wildest dreams. It’s always special to play as peers with those who were your idols when growing up.”
The Overtures have devised a special concert, suitably titled “The Bootleg Sixties.”
Speaking of not being tied down to one band or one sound, Den says: “I think I’d go mad if I had to play the music of one band all the time - there was so much great stuff going on at that time.
“I love the majority of groups from that time. Like any decade there are lots of genres and styles. A lot of it gets overlooked as well.”
“We just try to stay as true to as we can to the era – do it properly.”
The overtures bring the Bootleg Sixties to Rhyl Pavilion on august 28. Call 01745 33 00 00 for tickets and more information
