Well here we are at the start of December 2007 and I must say how fast this year has flown by. The band has enjoyed some great gigs over the last few months and Mixed Feelings remain the busiest show band on the UK circuit with over 120 gigs completed this year already. The personnel of the band remains the same which is the sign of a happy well-paid unit! We have certainly entertained a few people too.. The summer saw us appear at some of the lovliest venues - even if it was wet at times! - quality weddings in marquees in English country gardens - our favourite type of gig. In May this year, we performed for the premiership champions, Manchester United at a tremendous party at 'Les Ambassadeurs' Casino and Club in Park Lane, following the teams 0-0 draw at Chelsea. It was a delight to see Wayne Rooney 'break-dancing' and great to have Sir Alex Ferguson join the girls on stage for 'Gimmee a man after midnight.' Best dancer at the event was without doubt the handsome, Ryan Giggs - a natural John Travolta. What a lovely bunch of people who fed us lots of champagne! (We still support our local club, The Arsenal, though - having appeared for Tony Adam's 'Sporting Chance Charity on more than one occasion)
In October we had the privilege of performing at a private anniversary party at the Natural History Museum, when we joined on stage by Sir Cliff Richard for a special rendition of 'Misunites' and of course 'Congratulations.' Also present was Bruce Forsyth, Cilla Black and many other celebs, the band being introduced on stage by Gloria Hunniford, when we performed a special song written by Don Black and Tony Hatch. (who were present) As I write these words, I am just recovering from yet another late night at the best hotel in Britain - the Dorchester - when the band was introduced on stage by compere Bradley Walsh for the 'Make a Wish' Ball, the famous Childrens Charity. I do like the Dorchester Hotel and it's nice to know they like us. (We are booked to perform at the Dorchester Staff Party in January) The Staff are always friendly and nice to work with which is more than you can say for some of the other 'top' hotels. Another of our favourite London Hotels is the Royal Lancaster. (We performed there on five occasions in November) This hotel has an easy access and again, nice people to do business with.
In October we were flown to Berlin to perform at the Brandenburg Gate on the Anniversary of Germany's unification. What a great time we had in that interesting city although the price of beer was quite high..
So another Christmas comes and goes.. New Years Eve we are back at the Birmingham Metropole NEC Hilton Hotel where doubtless, we shall see many old friends and a great party will be had by all. Although over 600 tickets have been sold I am told there are still a left which is tremendous value at £150 per ticket. For that you get a luxury room, champagne reception, six course dinner, dancing to Mixed Feelings with Disco, breakfast at 2am followed by breakfast and brunch the following morning.. Yes all for £150!!
A nice comment was made by Andy Miller of Pro Plus after he saw the band at the London Hilton (The 'Governors' Ball) on Saturday 1st December.. "Awesome performance.. The personalities of the singers shone through with their brilliant audience interaction.. They want you back next year!"
Thanks again, are due to all our friends and bookers, especially Pro Plus, (Andy & Vicky) Fanfare 3000 (Peter and Paul) CBS Group (Russ & Steve) JLP Events (John Kertin) Howard T'Loosty, Planned to Perfection (Colin & Nicky) and not forgetting the old impressario himself, Michael Black. (yes, he still comes up with the goods!)
We wish all our friends, booker and fellow bandleaders, (Yes, it's getting harder out there) a wonderful Christmas and Happy, prosperous & healthy New Year.
Jon Nicholls