Bert Weedon was a hugely influential British guitarist, primarily during the 1950s and 1960s. He became the first British guitarist to enjoy a solo hit and his style was cited as an influence by most of the British rock royalty of the 1960s period. He would also achieve fame and enduring influence through the publication of his tutorial on how to play the guitar called “Play in a Day”.
This profile
of him by Ulster Television follows Weedon during the course of a day. From
signing fan mail at his desk, to typing letters (cigar in mouth!), to making home
tape recordings and practising the guitar, to meeting friends outside for a jam
and then, finally, heading to the pub for a few pints.
Also on show is Bert opening up a case to reveal a guitar-playing puppet. This wonderful character was called Erbert and was created by the legendary Peter Firmin (who also designed the Clangers, Bagpuss, Ivor the Engine, Noggin the Nog and Basil Brush) for an appearance on the BBC children’s series Crackerjack.
Sadly, the sound of this piece has been lost but it still acts as an important visual record of a leading musician from the 1960s at home during the course of a day.