Black Sabbath's Original Manager Launches Weekly Rock Nights at Birmingham Pub
Jim Simpson, the inaugural manager of the legendary heavy metal band Black Sabbath, is introducing a new weekly gig night at a prominent Broad Street pub in Birmingham. The inaugural event, dubbed 'Brasshouse Rocks Friday,' will kick off this week, featuring a performance by musician Brad Henshaw and his band.
Historic Music Legacy Meets Modern Live Scene
Jim Simpson is renowned for managing Ozzy Osbourne and Tony Iommi's early band, Earth, in 1969, before it evolved into the iconic Black Sabbath. His involvement in the music industry dates back to the release of Black Sabbath's first two legendary albums, Black Sabbath and Paranoid, in 1970. Simpson remains a pivotal figure in the regional music scene through his company, Big Bear Music, which has been based in Birmingham since 1968.
Big Bear Music operates Big Bear Records, an independent record label celebrated for its jazz, swing, and blues artists. This new initiative marks an expansion into live events, bringing Simpson's extensive experience to the forefront of Birmingham's entertainment offerings.
Details of the New Weekly Gig Series
The 'Brasshouse Rocks Friday' gigs will launch at The Brasshouse on Broad Street this Friday, April 10, starting at 6 PM. Admission is free, providing an accessible way for music enthusiasts to enjoy high-quality live performances. Jack Simpson, representing the initiative, expressed enthusiasm about the venture.
"We're thrilled to announce our new weekly live music evening at The Brasshouse," said Jack Simpson. "The 'Brasshouse Rocks Friday' gigs will feature the best rock, blues, and soul bands around, and is our third free night on Broad Street, and our fourth weekly gig in the West Midlands."
The first performer, Brad Henshaw, is a Birmingham-born singer-songwriter with a career that includes collaborations with some of music's most iconic names. His performance promises to set a high standard for the series, offering a vibrant start to the weekend.
Upcoming Lineup for Brasshouse Rocks Friday
The weekly gigs will continue with a diverse lineup of bands, showcasing talent from across the region. The scheduled performances include:
- Friday, April 17: Jamie Thyer & The Worried Men from Gloucestershire.
- Friday, April 24: Honeyboy Hickling Blues Band, featuring guitar hero Bob Wilson.
- Friday, May 1: High Wycombe's Stuart Maxwell's Blues Raiders.
- Friday, May 8: The ever-rocking Slide Boy Roy.
This series aims to enrich Birmingham's cultural landscape by providing a regular platform for live music, fostering community engagement, and celebrating the city's rich musical heritage. With Jim Simpson's legacy and the vibrant local talent, 'Brasshouse Rocks Friday' is poised to become a staple in the West Midlands' entertainment scene.
