Godmother of rock and roll's city gig honoured

8 hours ago

Paul Burnelland

Michelle Adamson,North West

Sister Rosetta Tharpe performed on the station in 1964

Getty Images Sister Rosetta Tharpe stands on th epaltform in a large coat playing an electric guitar on the station platform. — Sister Rosetta Tharpe performed on the station in 1964

A unique slice of Manchester's musical history - when the "Godmother of rock and roll" performed live at a city railway station - has been commemorated.

The day Sister Rosetta Tharpe played at the disused station at Whalley Range's Wilbraham Road in May 1964 has been marked with the unveiling of a blue plaque.

Tharpe, who influenced music legends Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley and Little Richard among others, was recording a show for Granada TV's Blues and Gospel Train, along with greats such as blues giant Muddy Waters.

The plaque is part of an initiative by social historian and broadcaster Karen Gabay, to place plaques across Manchester, honouring Black musicians who left a mark on the city.

Michelle Adamson/BBC Karen Gabay in a large multi-coloured skirt stands below the blue plaque — Karen Gabay below the blue plaque

It was unveiled by Gabay at Manchester Central Convention Complex - the former Manchester Central Railway Station - where Tharpe and fellow musicians boarded the train to take them to Whalley Range.

The historian explained: "She was one cool sister; that swagger, that strut, the way she played the guitar - so many people who see it for the first time are instantly taken aback."

Noted vocalists Pauline Black, lead singer of 80s ska band The Selecter and soul singer Ruby Turner attended the ceremony to pay their own homage.

Pauline Black (L) and Ruby Turner were both inspired by Tharpe

Michelle Adamson/BBC Pauline Black (left) is clad in black complete with a black hat. Ruby Turner has black curly, large earrigns, and sjhaeds on her forehead. She wears a printed coat. — Pauline Black (L) and Ruby Turner were both inspired by Tharpe

Black said: "You don't see too many women singing and playing the electric guitar louder and more fiercely than men and you certainly don't hear of black ladies who were revered by someone like Chuck Berry or Keith Richards."

Turner added: "It was really important for me to be here as I sang her stuff in my teens."

Also attending the event, was fan Dave Lunt, who attended the original recording of the Granada show.

"I remember the weather was cold and horrible but the music made up for it.

"She was quite overwhelming."

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