Charlie Harper’s 80th birthday party
UK Subs | Anti Nowhere League | Ramonas
Shepherds Bush Empire
May 25th 2024
There can’t be another figure in the history of Punk Rock that commands more respect than Charlie Harper. Through the good times and the bad, he’s led his band of warriors through 47 years of gigs. Always accessible, always willing to chat. You won’t find Charlie hiding in the dressing room, more likely you’ll find him on the merch stand chatting and having his photo taken with fans. Tonight, we gathered at the Empire to pay tribute to one of our own. The amount of love in the room was wonderful. Liverpool punk legend Richie Rocker reports back from the Ooh la la la Ooh la lay party in London…
If you’re gonna have a party, then a few Ramones songs is a good way to start. The Ramonas were on fine form, delivering all the classics in the joyous way of the early bruddas themselves. I love watching this band, they look like they’re having such a wonderful time.
A great start.
The addition of ex Subs drummer Jamie Oliver to the ranks of the Anti Nowhere League was a master stroke, he’s really tightened the band up, and tonight they delivered a storming set. Let’s Break The Law, Streets Of London, For You, sounded amazing. They were loud tight and powerful. This band have been around a long time now of course, but this is without doubt their best line up.
And so, to the main event, the UK Subs hit the ground running and kick in with Rockers. Has ever a song been more apt? Charlie front and centre belting out Born A Rocker Die A Rocker.
So true.
The classics kept coming all night. Kicks, Tomorrows Girls, a wall shaking Warhead, Riot, and of course Stanglehold. Before the encore, Charlie is presented with a birthday cake, luckily there was only one candle!! We then get Party In Paris, and the night finishes with Keep On Running.
People had travelled from all over the world for this gig, a testament to the love people have for this man. A true road warrior, who has earned the love and respect of us all. At the after-show party, everyone was queuing up to speak to the man or just shake his hand. It was an honour to be here tonight, I can’t wait for the 90th!!
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