Post by: Keith on 17 March 2020 14 10
During the period while the club is closed. This board will be used for your "Homework" Ha,Ha,Ha, Teachers talking "Where's me stick?"
We plan to nominate songs for you, to be practiced each week. So we don't all get rusty.
Post by: Tommo on 17 March 2020 14 27
8)
Post by: Diane Dukes on 18 March 2020 21 25
Here is the first of the ten or so songs “Teacher” will be giving out each week as homework. Now the schools are closing, you will all need some extra curricular activities. NOT THAT SORT GUYS.😄😄😄
Anyway here goes.
Happy St Patrick’s Day so we will start with
The Wild Rover to warm you up. Taken nightly with a pint of the dark stuff.
They Call the Wind Mariah. You might have wind after the Guinness,
Under the Moon of Love. (Remember your kazoos for the intro)
Brightside of the Road. A cheery number, goes on a bit.
Crazy. We all will be after this.
I Walk the Line. ( Watch the key changes when you sing it- it’s tricky.)
Tickle My Heart. (Just a bit of fun)
I Have a Dream. Just 2 extra beats on “belieeeve”
Penny Lane - Fish Fingers. Need I say more?
Seriously folks, hope you enjoy playing these. Knowing the rest of the gang may be playing too!
Enjoy, Stay healthy, and I will send some other songs next week, including some new ones you may like.
If you would like to recommend any new songs, please let me know.
Cheers
Di x
Post by: johnlin on 18 March 2020 23 46
Linda and John
Post by: Keith on 20 March 2020 10 52
Hope you're keeping well?
I'm sure we're all going to get this virus at some point, I just thought it might be nice if we posted here on the forum when we are feeling better from the bug.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Keith on 21 March 2020 16 13
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 21 March 2020 22 46
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 March 2020 11 15
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 March 2020 11 21
Stay well and keep strumming! 🎼🥁🎸🎶🎵
Di x
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 24 March 2020 14 07
Post by: guest17 on 24 March 2020 14 20
Post by: Diane Dukes on 25 March 2020 07 41
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 25 March 2020 08 19
And welcome to week 2 of our strum-a-long get together online. Week two already.
DOESN’T TIME FLY WHEN YOU’RE HAVING FUN! 😬😬😬
I’ve chosen songs that we may not have done in a while. And some that reflect my weird sense of humour. 😜😜😜
Here goes :
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. (Watch the Intro)
Sunny Afternoon. Well it has been lovely hasn’t it?
From a Jack to a King ( Get the speed right, folks. Cos I never can!)
HERE COMES THE IRONY!
Bad Moon Rising ( all have a practice of the intro)
Even the Bad Times Are Good - That Bm takes me by surprise too!
Enjoy Yourself ( yes that ska beat is awkward, but I find I do a Little “bounce” to help me keep the beat. - DON’T ALL WATCH ME!
Happy Together. Dedicated to Joe
Teach Your Children Well. Dedicated to all home educators.
I Will Survive - It seems to be the anthem everyone is playing/ singing at the moment. Remember, we don’t do a slow intro.
And finally, as a tribute to Ron,
On the Road Again.
Well that’s all for now. Keep safe, keep in touch and keep strumming.
Cheers, Di x
Post by: Yvonne R on 25 March 2020 10 54
Post by: TEZ on 26 March 2020 14 46
Post by: Wyn Price on 26 March 2020 15 17
I am not allowed in work for 12 weeks. Thank god for my ukelele. It is a shame we haven't recorded some of these onto a cd and copied them for members. We could have still played together. Maybe a thought for the future. Hope everyone keeps safe and well.see you all soon. Yvonne r.xxxWell we may be able to help here. There are recordings of Sedgleys songs in MP3 format so you can play along with them (as if it was a CD). They are being put in a G-Drive folder so you will be able to access it and play whatever you choose to strum along with.
Wyn
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 April 2020 11 07
Here we are again. Week 3 and I hope everyone is exactly the same as before. In other words everyone is well and still
living the life of luxury at home. Enjoying the glorious weather 🤨🤨🤨 and revelling in the fabulous entertainment we have on the television box🙄🙄🙄🙄. Never mind, you can always play your ukulele!🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
I hope you have noticed that thanks to Yvonne for mentioning it, but Keith and Robert have downloaded mp3 recordings of songs we have done. Some date back to when DTE was leading. I hope these are useful to you and thank you to Keith and Robert for secretly recording us🕵️♂️🕵️♂️ (Watch What you say folks there’s a couple of spies in the room)😁😁
Anyway hope they help you.
Here’s this weeks choices. Enjoy.
Putting On the Style. (DTY will have to get his car horn out!)
Maxwell’s Silver Hammer (a cheerful ditty about a serial killer)
It’s Only a Paper Moon. (Use the hint at the bottom for playing a F#m)
Nowhere Man. (Take it at a steady speed and you can get it.)
Rollin in my Sweet Baby’s Arms. (You can play it standing on your head, I bet,)
Swinging On a Star. (Lovely, cheerful song, not chosen enough)
Here Comes My Baby. (Practice moving from G to D)
Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow? (I do wonder, after this lot is over)
You Are My Sunshine. (Another cheery song. Try singing the harmony too, it’s lovely.)
And finally, to celebrate the news that Trev and Juls are back home.
500 Miles. Welcome home guys. I’ll speak to you soon. Xx
That’s it for now. Keep in touch, keep well and keep strumming.
Di x
I
Post by: Yvonne R on 02 April 2020 22 39
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 April 2020 09 45
Post by: Diane Dukes on 08 April 2020 12 34
Hope you are keeping well. Here are this week’s songs for your delectation. Ooooooh Mrs. I’ve come over all ‘Good Old Days’. But none of you will remember that, eh? You’re all far too young.. What was the guys name with the gavel? No prizes for the answer but I’d like to know.
Anyway, here’s the songs to strum to and all of them are available on the forum as mp3s to play along to as well.
Hope you enjoy them.
Country Roads. An easy one to start you off.
The Deadwood Stage. Must practise the intro, when to start singing.
Fly Me to the Moon. Would it be safer up there at the moment?
Hello Mary Lou. Another classic that is a pleasure to play.
I’ll See You In My Dreams. Not everyone’s favourite Oops sorry, Keith. But we should practise it.
It Must Be Love. Tricky little number, the timing is crucial in between chorus and verses.
Little Things Mean a Lot. The singing is tricky too. But a lovely song, I think.
Now here’s where you will have to concentrate
MR. BLUE SKY! We haven’t done this for a very long time. But it can be done well. Listen to the mp3 to help.
Then from the sublime to the ridiculous
Pearly Shells. Practise your dance moves too! I’ll be looking for volunteers.
And then finally, to end on a little bit of competition within your household.
Roaring Twenties Medley. I wouldn’t like to create any arguments but you know the ladies always win!
That’s it for now. But. Here’s a little extra information.
We have been asked about using a website called Zoom in order to have a strumalong together. We have looked into it and it may be possible if we have enough people interested. There is a fee involved for the club, which is approximately £12 per month, although I understand it is free for the first forty minutes. If enough strummers are interested and can work the technology, we may be able to begin our own sessions. At the moment I know other groups are producing the same thing, via Facebook. If you are interested in our own strumalong, then let us know. Thanks.
Take care, keep safe and keep strumming.
Cheers everyone,
Di x
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 08 April 2020 12 42
Took some sorting out and it was good, we have subscribed now so should be interesting how it goes tonight , I'll let you know thanks for everything stay safe Pete
Post by: Diane Dukes on 08 April 2020 12 53
Post by: Keith on 08 April 2020 15 25
Post by: Diane Dukes on 10 April 2020 13 51
I hope you are all well.
Last night we had a little virtual get-together. Myself, Joe and Keith along with a couple of guinea-pigs tried out a Zoom app that allowed us all to see each other, talk, and play together. It was surprisingly easy. Although we cannot hear everybody else whilst playing, I can be heard counting in the songs and singing. Therefore, it gives you an opportunity to sing and play, but perhaps more importantly to keep n contact with friends at the club. Keith will be sending everyone an Email with the details. I hope you like the idea. Whilst not being perfect, it allows us all to find out how everyone is, it allows us to practise and gives you something to do on a Thursday night. I do hope you would like to join us.
As I say Keith will be contacting you soon.
Take care of yourselves, keep safe and keep strumming.
Tarraabit
Di x
Post by: guest29 on 10 April 2020 16 20
I also took my hunting horn out and gave them a few good blasts.
Here’s something different —— Why not treat your neighbours to a good old ukulele strum!!
Hope you’re all keeping well.
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 10 April 2020 16 55
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 April 2020 08 59
Hope you’re all fit and well and looking forward to our first “official” Thursday night Strumalong live from “Chez Coseley” via “Chez Sedgley”. (From our house via Keith’s)
But more about that later.
For those who can’t join us tonight, here is week 5s songs to enjoy. If you need to hear them, then feel free to download the mp3 versions as all of the songs were recorded and you can play and sing along to them Enjoy!
Start off with a nice, gentle one, to warm you up.
Wooden Heart ❤️
Under the Moon of Love. (While we’re in the mood)
Ruby. ( You’ll have to imagine Terry’s “boom bum, bum” if you don’t use the mp3)
They Call the Wind Mariah. Lovely, romantic song. Always reminds me of Clint Eastwood. (Don’t forget to sing both parts)
Bus Stop (practise that intro)
Girls, Girls, Girls (You have to be a bit quick at times)
Brightside of the Road. (Again you’ll have to sing both parts)
And finally, to finish off, my favourite at the moment - Riptide
Hope you enjoy the selection.
As to tonight, we will probably be doing some of those live on the Zoom app. We have quite a large group joining up to play and sing together. For those not yet signed up, it allows you to play along and see each other on line. We can chat with you too. When we play together, you will only hear me and Joe, but it at least allows you to play along. If anyone is interested in joining us at 8:15 tonight. Download Zoom and contact Keith who will send a link to allow you in. I hope that has explained it ok. Look forward to seeing you tonight. If not, stay safe, keep calm, and keep strummin.
Cheers all,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 17 April 2020 09 19
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our first virtual Thursday Night Strumalong. It was a fun night. A little bit confusing at times, and I’m told the screen froze for awhile. Not sure why. But I think with more experience with the “techie” bit, and a bit more practise, we can make this a regular thing. I know a few people had problems with the it, but we will help as much as we can. The important thing is that if it was fun for you, and helped you with your playing then it’s worth carrying on. If enough people are interested then we will look into taking out a subscription with Zoom. Let us know what you think. One thing I realised, well two really,
A. Nobody will leave jumpers, scarves, false teeth or their glasses behind. ( Ok, no false teeth) and
B. Nobody has to drive home! Bonus!
Anyway, as I say, thanks again and tell us if you will be joining us next week. Or if you have any suggestions to improve the running of the evening. We are having to learn new things too.
Cheers everyone, stay safe
Di x
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 17 April 2020 16 09
Post by: Diane Dukes on 17 April 2020 16 45
We have subscribed for the package and will be back next week. Thanks again and see you next Thursday.
Stay safe everyone.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 April 2020 12 40
Hope everyone is fit and well. The weather is great, so that should keep everyone’s spirits up, except the hay fever sufferers. But a strumalong should help too.
We had a very successful meet up last Thursday. With a few things to iron out, but for a first go it seems everybody enjoyed it. We will be meeting again at 8:10 this Thursday, playing the selection of songs that I will choose, initially. Then everyone can know the order in advance. Following that, we will go “round the room, “ as usual, but if you would message me with your choice beforehand, then we will be able to hear Strummers’s choices clearly as I can announce them straight away.
Another suggestion, was to have a short break to allow strummers to fetch a cuppa, or whatever is your poison, or to chat together. We will give this a try too.
So, on to the set list
By the way, Thursday (tomorrow) is St. George’s Day so my choices are mainly British songs. Happy birthday William Shakespeare too!
Act Naturally, an easy-going Beatles song, sung by Ringo, I believe.
All My Loving. Sticking with the Beatles theme, the AmMj7 is easier to play than say!
I’m into Something Good. Remember ladies, second time round don’t sing the extra line at the end of the chorus.
Little Things Mean a Lot. Awwww. Important to remember that, these days.
Oom Pah Pah. From the sublime to the ridiculous!
Sunny Afternoon. You won’t hear the bass intro so keep the count in your head.
Tickle My Heart. Again, don’t panic over the C diminished. It’s easy.
With a Little Help From My Friends. Not done this for a while. See if you remember it.
And last but not least.
Old Time Medley No. 1. Couldn’t be more English if we tried.
Well that’s all, I think for now. You should have received an “invitation “ from Keith, giving you the details, passwords etc. If not, contact Keith or myself. Or, if you want to join us for the first time, get in touch.
Oh, by the way, if you wish to go through some new songs we are introducing in the new book, coming out soon. We will be having a “Last Tuesday of the Month,” next week on the 28th April.
See you soon, stay safe and keep strummin.
Di. x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 April 2020 07 08
Thanks to everyone who joined us for last night’s strumalong. I hope it went well for you all and that the technology didn’t interfere with your enjoyment of the night. There were a few little gremlins, but from my point of view things were a little smoother. But please give us your thoughts.
It was a pleasure to welcome some new players last night. I hope it didn’t put you off with the choice of songs. It’s such a shame we can’t get together as there would be many who would help you out and encourage you. But, for next weeks choices, I will certainly include some of our easier songs to help you.
Finally, as mentioned, we are including a “Last Tuesday of the Month Night next week, 28th April. Starting around 7:30, we will be looking at some new songs to be included in the Song book. We have been recording songs to help and they will be made available to try out before Tuesday. Just to make clear, it isn’t a Strumalong, it is a work on and “tweak” session. Keith will send out info over the weekend/Monday for those interested. Hope you can join us.
So that’s all for now. Thanks again and we look forward to “meeting up” again next week.
Take care, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Tracey on 24 April 2020 11 16
Thanks to Di, Joe and Keith for keeping us all together x
enjoyed last night, thank you. I had to wrestle with my cat a couple of times who wanted to get in on the act. :o Looking forward to next time.
Stay safe everyone x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 29 April 2020 11 23
Hope you’re all well. We had a great time on our Last Tuesday of the Month night. We went through some new songs that will be introduced into the next book. I think they went down well, with all of them getting the seal of approval. We will arrange another selection of new songs for the next Tuesday session, including some of your requests. So that will be interesting.
For those who cannot join us on Tuesdays or Thursdays, I do hope you are able to have a strum at your leisure, but if you still want to join us you are very welcome. It’s probably the best time cos nobody else can hear you play
Anyway, we will be playing the same numbers we have here, on Thursday, and as promised I have included some easier songs for our
new members. Enjoy.
I Recall a Gypsy Woman. Lots of C chords.
I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. Again, lots of the C chords. Mind the gap
Save the Last Dance For Me. Haven’t done this for a while.
Blowing In the Wind. No, Joe and Pete, you can’t play your bugle!!!!!!
Folsom Prison Blues Listen our for me imitating a train whistle!
Hello Mary Lou. Watch out for that B7
It Must Be Love. Getting Trickier now, more chords, don’t be scared no-one can hear you.
Mr. Sandman. Even trickierer, if that is a word, (it should be) I know, it’s even more trickier. Talk propa, Di.
Nowhere Man. Lovely song, bit sad but lovely to play.
Precious Time. Just a reminder to take every opportunity life sends you. Such an upbeat tune with a strong message.
Well that’s about it for now. Hope you can join us tomorrow, Thursday. Thanks again to all who played on Tuesday night.
Keith will be in touch with the Zoom invitation soon.
See you soon, Take care, Keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: johnlin on 01 May 2020 11 44
Just wanted to say a big thank you for the Zoom Club Night Meeting last night. We thoroughly enjoyed it! It was great to see everybody again and to be able to sing along with you. It seems ages since we all met up! Thank goodness for the technology that allows us all to meet up virtually like this as I think it will be a while before things change for the better!
Well done - and keep up the good work!
Keep safe....
Linda and John
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 May 2020 11 56
Using your tv to connect to zoom. Do you have a separate camera on the tv?
I am trying the same thing but don’t have a camera. ( I don’t think so anyway)
Was it a good quality sound and picture, using zoom?
Thank you again for the comment. Take care and see you soon x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 May 2020 17 03
Thanks everyone,
See you next week,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 06 May 2020 12 30
Hope you are still keeping busy and staying healthy. Here are a few items to note for tomorrow’s get- together. Firstly, it it LOUD SHIRT NIGHT! I hope you will dress up as I would love to get a screenshot to send to those who cannot join us on Zoom. A reminder to them that we are still around and thinking of them. It would be great for our own profile too.
Secondly, I have included in the song list some of the new songs, some of us performed last Tuesday. The song tabs and a recording of them was sent to everyone with the Zoom invitation for the last Tuesday of the Month session. Please access them and we will try them out. One or two tricky ones but, with practise we can do them. If anyone cannot find them. They will be put on the forum.
Finally, once again, we will have a break and in the second half we will take requests. Please forward them to us beforehand, or by message on the Zoom app. Thanks.
Here are this weeks selection. I will identify the new songs.
All I Have to do is Dream (nice and steady.)
Jolene. A Classic favourite.
* Obladi Oblada, ( Some might remember this in the book from years ago)
Midnight Special A Classic Song.
* Burning Bridges. (You might know it as the title song from the film Kelly’s Heroes)
Listen To Me. We do a Buddy Holly Medley but this isn’t in it.
*. A Grand and Healthy Life. A George Formby Song. A bit OOH MATRON!
On the Road again. Another easy playing favourite.
* Blame It On Me. One of a couple of George Ezra songs to be introduced. ( Sorry If you’re not a fan)
* End of the Line. The Travelling Wilberries sang this.
And just to end on a high
SWEET CAROLINE.
Hope you can make it. Take care and we’ll see you Thursday.
Take care, keep safe and keep strumming 🌈
Di x
Post by: Keith on 06 May 2020 18 51
I've posted the 5 new songs in the song list section on this Forum. Please download them.
Also, most of the new songs are available for you to have a listen to on the G:Drive.
To access the MP3 files you will need to click on this link (below) and it will take you to a folder on G Drive with the music songs in.
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1rzQAesRNOpkgPseyJHi6QN6aRO563G9c?usp=sharing
You can download any of the songs you like.
Please do not forward this link on to anyone outside SUS, as it is our music performed by your good selves.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Diane Dukes on 08 May 2020 12 57
Post by: Diane Dukes on 13 May 2020 10 40
Here we are again with another selection of songs for this week. I hope everyone is still keeping well and following Boris’ clear as mud guidelines.😁. Poor guy, I wouldn’t wish his job on anyone. Anyway, keep happy, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all on Thursday. If you have any requests then please let us know.
Here goes.
Rollin In My Sweet Baby’s Arms. Everyone can join in this.
Baby Face/Pretty Baby. Enjoy yourselves with this.
Freight Train. Again, listen out for the “Train whistle”
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. Tricky beginning.
Even the bad times are good. Mind the Bm. Stretch those fingers. As Mr. Motivator might say.
Fly Me to the Moon. Some different chords. But easy ones.
Folsom Prison Blues. Back to the train whistle.
I Walk the Line. I know, another Johnny Cash.
Now a couple of new ones again
Burning Bridges.
Obladi Oblada.
That’s it for now. Don’t forget to request any songs.(Not Rawhide or Ghostriders PLEASE) 😁😁😁
Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Iain Magee on 15 May 2020 17 56
Does anyone know if there is any music shops doing deliveries just now? I currently have a tuner that needs replaced tried replacing the battery and nothing is happening.
Shall pop onto the meeting next week, things have been full on at my end so haven't had time sadly.
keep strummin'
Post by: Diane Dukes on 15 May 2020 18 32
CR2032. Other than that I suggest trying to google any music shops in your area.
Take care and stay safe. SUS.
Post by: Diane Dukes on 15 May 2020 19 12
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 15 May 2020 23 41
Post by: Dave the Elder on 19 May 2020 12 15
Hi folks, hope you are all keeping well
Does anyone know if there is any music shops doing deliveries just now? I currently have a tuner that needs replaced tried replacing the battery and nothing is happening.
Shall pop onto the meeting next week, things have been full on at my end so haven't had time sadly.
keep strummin'
You could order one from the following eBay site but it will take two or three weeks to get to you. This is one of the sites that I used to buy them from in bulk at £3 a time, looks like we have inflation already. But still cheaper than any you will find in UK shops. good quality too.
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/eno-ET-33U-Portable-Clip-On-Tuner-LCD-Display-for-Guitar-Chromatic-Ukulele-Z8N3/383451449817?epid=3030645916&hash=item59477cc9d9:g:9woAAOSw8bBeYxOZ
Post by: Diane Dukes on 20 May 2020 12 19
Here we are again, another week gone by, where does the time go? It’s already coming towards the end of the month. ( No I can’t believe it either). But here’s a gentle reminder that as well as meeting on Zoom tomorrow 21/05/2020. There will be a Last Tuesday of the Month next Tuesday for those who would like to join us to try out some new songs. As before, the new songs will be put onto the forum for you to download, as well as the mp3. To give you some ideas of how they go. Hope you can join us.
But here are this week’s selection for you to enjoy.
A Fool Such as I ( A light starter to wet the appetite)
Forever Autumn (not the same without the intro, but a lovely one to play)
Karma Chameleon ( play through the Acapella part)
Putting on the Style. (Hope Dave brings his car horn, or Joe and Pete might play bugle!) NEVER THOUGHT I’D SAY THAT!
🤭🤭🤭🤭
The Blackpool Belle. (Now we’re getting to the main course)
Ruby (Count-in after 1, 2, 1, 2, 3.)
Travelling Light (mind the intro)
Up On the Roof. ( I will keep practicing the singing till I get it right)
Wagon Wheel. ( not too fast, we have to get the words in)
And then for dessert:-
Roaring Twenties Medley and the ladies will definitely win cos I’m the only one singing😁😁😁
Well that’s it for now,
See you all on Thursday or on Tuesday if you can make it.
Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 May 2020 10 24
Great night last night. Hope you all enjoyed it. A quick reminder that the new book is available to be downloaded from the forum, using the link and that there will be a last Tuesday of the month strumalong next week. Hope to see you there. Take care all.
Di x
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 26 May 2020 18 41
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 May 2020 18 47
Post by: Diane Dukes on 27 May 2020 06 40
adjustments, so far. But thanks for the input. See you all tomorrow night. I will send out the set list later today.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 27 May 2020 11 56
Well, another week has gone by. I’ve lost count of the weeks now, I just know we are on page 4 of this Keeping In Touch During Corona post, and it will soon be June when we should have been on holiday in Portugal. But I’m not complaining, honestly. . We had a great time, last night. Thanks to all who joined us. We went through some new songs, which we can try out tomorrow too. But here’s the choice for this week. If you have any requests, feel free to ask.
A Fool Such as I. I’ll try to get the speed right.
Girls Girls Girls. A speedy little number.
I Will Survive. We’ve not chosen this for a while.
These Boots Are Made For Walking. A classic, but no bass so just a count in.
You Are My Sunshine. Not sung this for a while either.
The Boxer. Love this song, it makes you concentrate.
Ain’t No Pleasing You. Let’s give this a go. No one can hear you.
Teach Your Children Well. A nice, gentle song.
Rock and Roll Medley. A real rocker.
Morningtown Ride. Night, night everyone.
The new songs we will try out are
End of the Line. Travelling Wilberrys.
Brown Eyed Girl. Similar to Brightside of the Road.
Burning Bridges. Getting used to this now, I hope.
Blame It On Me. A bit tricky, but it travels along well.
Enjoy playing and singing these songs. Stay positive. Hopefully the lifting of lockdown is in sight. But we will carry on carrying on.
Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Peter Wilkes on 30 May 2020 16 08
Post by: Diane Dukes on 03 June 2020 11 41
Isn’t it a bit different today, weather wise? Dunno where the sun has gone but I could do with a bit of a rest from it.
I have had messages from people who wish to say hello to you all. Firstly from Charlie. You may remember him and his wife, Jan. Many of us enjoyed musical parties at their home in Dudley, and we played for them at the allotment in Jasmine Road, Dudley. They are both well, living in Malta at the moment, and want to send their very best wishes to all at Sedgley. Also, I have spoken to Trev and Juls this week. They are both well, but cannot join us on Thursday. But they are still playing and have downloaded the new book. They want to say hello to everyone too.
The lockdown is easing slightly, but it will still take some time before we get back to how it was. But we will continue with our Zoom meetings as long as you want them to. Or the internet finally, gives up the ghost and can’t cope any more😱😱
So here’s this weeks list.
All My Loving. Fairly straight forward chords. Just the AmMj7 to look out for.
Blowing in the Wind. A song quite apt for these times.
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. Just the intro to get right.
Happy Together. Imagine Terry on the drums for the chorus.
Hello Mary Lou. I’ll practise the B7.
In the Summertime. Intro rhythm is tricky without bass but we will cope. Don’t forget to repeat Verse1 and chorus at end.
It’s Now Or Never. Come on you Elvis impersonators. Get your wigs and white suits on.
King of the Road. Classic favourite.
Leaving On A Jet Plane. One day we might chance it! Till then we have to go....................
On The Road Again. But not too far.
Ok folks that’s it for now. As Keith posted yesterday, we do know about the situation at the Con Club. They have dug themselves a hole and we are looking into it!
But a reminder that it is Loud Shirt Night tomorrow. Yes Again! And for those who can’t join us on Thursdays, we are thinking of you. And can’t wait to join up again for a strumalong like before.
Cheers for now,
Keep safe, keep awake, I mean alert, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 05 June 2020 09 09
Stay safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 10 June 2020 11 10
Here we are again, the weeks are speeding by. I don’t know where the last week has gone. Before you know it it will be the school holidays!!!!😱😱 oh no, sorry that was in the normal world. 🌍. Still, you will soon be able to dash off to the Merry Hill Centre, if you want to! No. Me neither. 😄😄😄. So we might as well stay home and play a little ukulele.😄
Here’s this week’s list. I’ve included some of the new ones to keep it fresh.
Obladi Oblada. This is coming along lovely. I think.
Love Of The Common People. Sung by Paul Young. Bit of a reggae vibe.
Maxwell Silver Hammer. A happy little ditty.
The Urban Spaceman. I won’t use kazoos on Thursday as it distorts the sound even more.
There’s a Kind of Hush. This went down well last week, so try it again.
Tickle My Heart. I like this.
Under the Boardwalk. Ladies sing up😄😄😄!
Waterloo Sunset. Another one that went down well. Just the single beats for the sha la la bit.
Yellow Bird. Not sung it for a while.
Your Cheating Heart. Nor this one, but it’s an old favourite.
We are trying out some new techie things in order to improve the sound quality. I am slowly, very slowly, turning into a sound engineer, so be patient, but, there should be an improvement this week. And hopefully even better, next. If it all arrives and I can bung the right grubbings into the right orafice. That’s the technical phrase for it. So fingers crossed 🤞 all will be good.
Take care all, and see you on Thursday.
Post by: Diane Dukes on 12 June 2020 07 57
Thanks to all who joined us last night. I do hope the sound was better for you all. As mentioned we will be using other bits and pieces to try to improve it even more next week. There has been a couple of suggestions of a group of us meeting up outside somewhere to have a strum. Obviously, the weather has to improve, but I’m just offering the suggestion to see what people think. When the summer comes!! We could picnic 🧺 and play?? Let me know what you think. In the meantime we will be back next Thursday. See you there. Thanks again.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 17 June 2020 11 36
Hope you’re all safe and sound and not caught out by these thunderstorms we’ve been having. They make a lovely light show, don’t they? I remember my Nan used to close the curtains, switch the television and any electrical stuff off and hide the cutlery during a storm. So if we have a storm during Thursday night, and we go “off air”, you’ll know me Nan has come back to warn me!!!! 😱😱😱😁😁😁😁😁
But joking apart, look forward to you joining us with our ‘new and improved’ sound system. Sounds like a washing powder, doesn’t it? Keith has worked hard to set this up, and has had the patience to teach me, as well. I hope it will make the strumalong more enjoyable. So on to the songs.
I have included some more new songs to try out. Hope you like the choices.
A Teenager In Love. A good warm up song.
All I Have To Do Is Dream. Dedicated to all of you, like me, who are having the weirdest dreams, lately.
Have You Ever Seen The Rain? You can’t miss it at the moment!
Here Comes My Baby. Get those fingers moving.
Hey Good Looking. Haven’t played this in a while.
Precious Times. Apt for these moments.
Runaround Sue. Solo Intro, then all join in.
San Francisco Bay Blues. No harmonica, so just hum.
Summer Holiday. Another new one. But everyone should know it.
Take It Easy. We all should. I think this is becoming a favourite.
So that’s all for now. Look forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Take care keep safe and keep strumming.
Di 🌈❤️
Post by: Tracey on 17 June 2020 12 14
picnic and strumming, sounds good to me ;D
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 June 2020 10 12
I hope you enjoyed last night’s strumalong. We’ve had reports that the sound was very clear and I hope that was the same for everyone. We want to create as good a sound as possible for you. Please let us know your thoughts.
The weather is looking to improve this week, we have had some strummers say they would like to meet up for a picnic and strum. If anyone else would like to join us just let us know.
Fingers crossed we can organise something.
Take care everyone and see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 June 2020 12 00
As you may know we are hoping to arrange a picnic lunch and strum session for us all to have a get together. Although the information from the Government can be interpreted in a number of ways, we are still considering the possibility. We are to have a Government briefing tomorrow concerning the 2m or 1m or 1.5m rule!!! Either way, please keep Wednesday afternoon free, and I will send a final decision tomorrow evening. Obviously this is your choice to take part and we would fully understand, if not. But watch this space as they say, and a decision will be made tomorrow. Thank you for your patience.
Di, Keith and Joe. X
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 June 2020 18 19
After this afternoon’s Government briefing meeting. Keith, Joe and myself have decided the Strummers SHOULD NOT meet up tomorrow afternoon. It is such a shame, we were hoping for a further relaxation of rules concerning meetings outside, but as there were no easing of regulations announced, we felt it would be better to wait a little longer. There are other considerations also, including parking restrictions around the area and toilet facilities would not be available.
I’m hoping we will be able to arrange something else during the summer. But we just have to be a little more patient.
In the meantime, enjoy the warm weather, and we look forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 June 2020 10 22
As we wait for Boris to give us the go ahead for meeting up. We will continue with our weekly playlist, either for you to try at home or for those who join us on Thursdays. If there is anyone who wants help setting up to join us on Thursdays. Please let us know. We would be happy to guide you.
Anyway, on to the songs.
Bus Stop. Getting to be a favourite for some.
Dirty Old Town. This is an old favourite that was take out of the book for a while, but deserves a revisit. Not too slow though!
Enjoy Yourself. Ska version if we can do it. I’ve been practising.
Folsom Prison Blues. Everyone likes the man in black. No, not the Milk Tray Man, Johnny Cash!
Have You Ever Seen the Rain? Needs no answer.
I’m Into Something Good. I need to follow the instructions carefully.
Jolene. Bit of light relief.
Little Things Mean A Lot. Don’t they just.
Old Time Medley No. 2. Yes 2. We’ve not tried this before, as a group. Have a practice as there are some tricky chords.
And for a finale RAWHIDE. I know it’s a favourite of some of you.
Enjoy your day today. Don’t forget to slip, slap and slop, as the Aussies say, and keep cool, keep safe and keep strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 29 June 2020 22 40
Just a quick reminder that we will be meeting tomorrow night on Zoom to go through some of the newer songs in the book.
Look forward to seeing you. We start at 7:30. See you then.
Cheers Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 July 2020 11 14
Hope you’re all well. And ready to bang on the door of the nearest pub, shouting “Let me In, Let me In” and when it’s so crowded you can’t move shout “Let me out, Let me out” 😁😁😁. No we won’t be going to the pub on Saturday either.
But, no doubt the news will be full of the non existent social distancing rules. At the moment there is no sign of us going back to the Conservative Club in the foreseeable future, so we are looking for alternative venues, just in case. We have listed a number of possible venues in Sedgley and will contact them in due course. But at the moment we will be staying as we are, with our usual Thursday night Zoom.
Thank you to those who joined us last night to cover some new songs. It was a good night and we managed to work on some tricky numbers.
I hope those of you who cannot join us on Thursdays still play the set list and enjoy it.
So here goes.
Hello MaryLou. A classic opening song.
Last Thing on My Mind. A nice little harmony.
Runaround Sue. Becoming a popular choice.
Sweet Georgia Brown. I like the speed.
Me and Jane in a Plane. Now here’s a new one for some of you. It’s been revived.
The Letter. Not sung this for quite a while.
Take It Easy. An Eagles number.
The Wild Rover. To liven the evening up.
Fisherman’s Blues. No kazoos. Just humming.
The Night Has A Thousand Eyes.
Hope to see you all on Thursday.
By the way, sorry we didn’t add any new songs onto mp3s. We have had some problems with Keith’s internet link. He was unable to record and send them on. Apologies. We are hoping it doesn’t rain tomorrow and he may stay with us during Thursdays strumalong. 😁😁😁 I kid you not!
Anyway, fingers crossed and we will see you tomorrow. Don’t forget, we start at 7:30!
Keep time, keep safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 03 July 2020 12 06
A little late today. It was a lovely night last night. Thanks to everyone who joined us. Hope to see you again next week. Stay safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 08 July 2020 11 02
Hope you’re all well and keeping fit. Despite the gloomy weather, keep your spirits up with a strumalong to this selection of songs.
A Picture of You. Look out for the Bm.
500 Miles. Despite not having Trev and Zig, we should give it a go.
A Grand and Healthy Life. You can’t beat a George Formby song to raise a smile. 😁😁
Alexander’s Ragtime Band. Another upbeat number.
Fly Me To The Moon. A bit of a challenge with the Bm7b5. Yes that chord again.
From a Jack to a King. Great favourite.
They Call the Wind Maria. We watched Paint Your Wagon this week. Brilliant musical.
Karma Chameleon. Remember to sing up during the acapella 😄😄.
Oh La La. Rod and the Faces song.
Rolling In My Sweet Baby’s Arms. A old favourite.
And a couple of extras.
With a Little Help From My Friends. Not played this for a while.
Wooden Heart. This has been missing from the lists for a while too.
So enjoy playing the songs at home and we will see you on Thursday at 7:30.
Take care all,
Keep safe and keep strumming..
Di x
Post by: Trev M on 08 July 2020 15 25
Post by: Diane Dukes on 10 July 2020 10 39
Thanks, it went well. We miss you singing it though. Can’t wait till we can get back together again.
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 10 July 2020 11 04
A lovely night again, thanks to you all for joining us. Hope you enjoyed it.
For those who couldn’t meet with us, we have found out that the Conservative Club will be retaining their license and when the time comes we will be able to return for our weekly strumalong. Keith, Joe and myself will be visiting next week to discuss arrangements. This will of course involve social distancing and a limited number of people will be able to attend. That will be discussed when we meet up. This will perhaps involve some kind of rota? Not sure how you feel about it or if you have any of your own ideas on how continue safely then we would like to hear from you. All in all, things are looking positive and we will have to work with this “new normal”. Possibly you may like to organise your own ukulele “bubble” group of friends to be included in the rota. Eg. Trevor’s table could make up your own “bubble”. Or the “naughty corner” might like to create their own. ( I’ll need a gin for that night)! . But that’s one idea.
Let us know your thoughts please.
It might still be a while yet, possibly late September as we have holidays booked, but it’s nice to be able to make plans.
Thanks again for last night. Stay safe
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 15 July 2020 11 08
Here we are again, hope you’re all fit and well and still following all the rules of wearing a mask, (but not yet) meeting in your bubbles, (but no more than six) and of course no singing along to the music in the supermarkets. Would we be classed as a live performance, choir? #Confused.Com! ♀️
Anyway, take pleasure in singing along to your hearts content in your own home on Thursday.
Following our visit to the Club, procedures are in place to keep everyone safe, ready for the opening on Friday 17th July, but it will involve reducing the numbers of people in the upstairs room to approx 20. When the restrictions are lifted on singing groups, then we will need to find out how many people will WANT to start back on Thursdays. It is a personal choice after all, we all would like to, but only if you feel comfortable doing so. Your thoughts please would be appreciated.
But, as we said last week, nothing will be done until at least Late September, so things might change by then and we can make appropriate plans then. If the weather improves, there is still the option of meeting outside, keep an eye on the weather, folks.
So, on to Thursday night.
Bright Side of the Road. A cheery number to warm up with
Country Roads. Ditto
Hold the Line. A favourite song for many.
Folsom Prison Blues. You can never have too much Cash ( Joe’s joke)
End of the Line. One of the new ones.
Here Comes My Baby. Who remembers The Tremoloes? And it was written by Cat Stevens too! Who knew that!
These Boots Are Made For Walking. We are gonna try the Bass run up for this one, so be ready to come in.
The Young Ones. Gonna give this a go. Let me know how it goes.
Listen To Me. This is a newish one. We’ve not done many times before. Watch out for the changes from 4 beats to two beats.
Play That Song. Another new song we’ve tried once before. Yvonne requested this. Hope you like it.
And to end on a high.
Rock and Roll Medley.
I look forward to once again seeing you on Thursday. Take care of yourselves, stay safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 17 July 2020 09 02
And isn’t it a bright and sunny morning, I wonder if we will have a “Sunny Afternoon”too? (Cue song). Thank you all who joined us last night. There were some lovely choices of songs and a pleasure to play. If the weather does improve, then we will have an open air get together. We need to keep our fingers crossed for that. In the meantime, we are off to see some of the family this weekend. You can’t believe how excited we are. So, enjoy your week, keep safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Trev M on 19 July 2020 21 28
Post by: Keith on 22 July 2020 19 00
I'm sorry to say there will not be a SUS Zoom meeting this week Thursday 23th July. This is due to internet problems at Di's house.
We should be back to normal on Thursday 30th of July.
At the moment Di is not sure if our last Tuesday of the month meeting, next Tuesday will go ahead. It depends if Di's internet is sorted out, I'll be in touch about that.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Keith on 27 July 2020 17 24
Keith W is inviting you to the Last Tuesday SUS Zoom meeting tomorrow night 28th.
Di's internet problem has been fixed
Starting at 7:30pm.
Click the link below.
Join Zoom Meeting.
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3299788800?pwd=QXZXc1prREx1SnRYUGVrdTZGTno2dz09
Meeting ID: 329 978 8800
Passcode: SUSmeeting
We'll be trying out some of the new songs from the 2020 book.
The set list:
Waterloo Sunset
Brown eyed Girl
Tequila sunrise
Back in the USSR
Far far away
Whatever you want
Take it easy
Blame it on me
Play that song
There will be a chance for solo spots too, if you fancy the Limelight.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Keith on 29 July 2020 19 13
This is the invitation to this weeks SUS Zoom meeting on Thursday night.
Di's internet problems have been solved so we are back to normal.
One slight change to let you know about. If you join us after we have started to play please be patient in the waiting room, as we will only let you in between songs.
Please note the start time below.
Time: 7:30pm.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3299788800?pwd=QXZXc1prREx1SnRYUGVrdTZGTno2dz09
Meeting ID: 329 978 8800
Passcode: SUSmeeting
Cheers, Keith.
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 July 2020 09 23
Yes, watch out I’m back! He he! Apologies for last week, It was very difficult not having inter web thingy. You don’t realise how much it is part of your everyday life until you can’t get it. But we are back with you now. A couple of items to mention before the set list.
Firstly, we have the opportunity to use Coseley Cricket Club on a Monday or Tuesday evening for an outdoor get together if anyone is interested. There will be a bar open (quite important) and toilets available (very important, if the bars open) so that wouldn’t be a problem. So long as we don’t camp out over the wicket we can take as much room as we want and there is an electric socket for Keith’s plugged in things. He he. We would welcome your thoughts on this. Those are the only NIGHTS available. What do you think? Any takers?
Secondly thank you to those members who joined us on Last Tuesday of the Month. A very helpful session and we have some very good soloists. If anyone would like a repeat performance from Tony, Terry, Ivan. Or perhaps Mick might do a solo of Tiptoe Through the Tulips for us. Anyway a good night, thank you guys.
Finally onto the set list. At last you say!
A Teenager in Love. A good singalong
Hey Good Lookin. An old favourite from way back.
The Blackpool Belle. You should take a picnic and deckchair for this one.
Ruby. We’ll miss the drums, but come in after three.
Travelling Light. A message for you holiday makers.
Under the Moon of Love. Rock and Roll with Shawaddywaddy.
Wagon Wheel. Try to fit the words in.
Roaring 20s Medley. Sing up Ladies.
Burning Bridges. Becoming a favourite.
Love of the Common People. And this one too.
Obladi Oblada. For you Beatles fans.
Ending on Sunny Afternoon. Keep your fingers crossed for next week.
Well that’s all for now.
Let us know by phone, text, Facebook or carrier pigeon if you would like to meet on a Monday or Tuesday evening at the Coseley Cricket Club.
Keep smiling, keep safe and keep strummin..
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 31 July 2020 14 30
Hope you’re all well. We had a good time last night. Thanks to all who joined us. Following requests for a “live”, Face to face meet up, here are the arrangements for next Tuesday, 4th August. We will meet at Coseley Cricket Club for a social distanced outdoors strum at 7:30. The gates open at seven but give myself, Keith and Joe time to set up ourselves. You can get a drink at the bar and the toilets are available too. All you need to do is bring a chair, music, either tablet or your own songbook, music stand and uke. At the moment there is a very slight 10% chance of rain. But fingers crossed.
Hope that gives you all the details. Contact myself or Keith if you need any more info.
The address of the Club is
Coseley Cricket Club
Peartree Lane
Coseley
WV14 8HA.
Hope you can join us.
Keep strummin
Di x
Post by: Trev M on 04 August 2020 21 32
TREV & JULS XX
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 August 2020 22 08
Post by: Diane Dukes on 05 August 2020 11 03
Hope you are all well and ready to join in with our Zoom evening strumalong tomorrow.
Thanks to all who joined us at the Cricket Club last night. It was lovely seeing you all and the weather stayed dry for us. The “audience” Colin and Terry, were there, also our youngest fan was there, clapping and dancing along to us too. Did he come to see Grandad playing?
A great response from the people in the club, with requests for us to go back next week. If the weather is ok then we are all for it. How about you?
Right. Down to business. Here’s the set list for Thursday.
Bad Moon Rising. A good opener.
Buddy Holly Medley. I think people are used to this now.
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. As we start going out more gonna have to start dressing to go out again! Aaaarrrgh!
End of the Line. Let’s try this new one again.
From a Jack to a King. A old time favourite.
Here Comes My Baby. Haven’t got a “ding” though.
I Can Help. What? To find a Ding?
Island In The Sun. Let’s give this a try.
Jolene. Good ole Dolly.
Take It Easy. Our message to you all.
So that’s it for now. See you tomorrow, and if you are joining us and need help with setting up Zoom, don’t hesitate to ask.
Take care all, keep smiling, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 07 August 2020 14 53
Well, what can I say, thank you to you all. A wonderful surprise arrived this afternoon. The flowers are absolutely beautiful, gorgeous yellow flowers. Thank you again and look forward to seeing everyone soon. God bless you. x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 12 August 2020 09 34
Well, what a light show we had at the end of our set last night. I think it rivalled one of Take That’s shows. We just about timed it right, packing up just before the rain came down too. But the rain was quite welcome. Very cooling, but didn’t last long. Anyway thanks to all who came. It was lovely to see friends again who hadn’t made it to Zoom before. Fingers crossed we will do it again next week. Onto this week’s numbers.
Wooden Heart. Start the night with Elvis.
When I’m Sixty Four. I’ll remember to hum during the intrumental parts and the ‘ding’.
Yellow Bird. See if I can get the strumming pattern right. dduudu
Yellow River. There’s a theme here.
Yellow Submarine. I told you there was a theme.
Whiskey in the Jar. Haven’t done since ooooh, last week?
Waterloo Sunset. This is being chosen quite a few times.
Then I Kissed Her. Don’t be put off by the Cmaj7 and Am7. They are easy chords. Just makes you think.
The Young Ones. Can we do an intro of G Em G Em? We will give it a go. It works in my head anyway.
Putting On the Style. An old favourite.
Rawhide. Cos I know some of you like this
And to finish off. (Or finish us off) Rock and Roll Medley.
We will all need a break after that!
Well I hope you enjoy the selection of songs. Look forward to seeing you either Thursday on Zoom or Tuesday at the Cricket Club.
Keep safe, keep cool, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 14 August 2020 20 36
Just a quick thank you to all who joined us last night. It was a great night. With an eclectic choice of songs, and a long chat during the break. If the weather behaves we should be able to meet on Tuesday. We are able to get in earlier so we hope to start around SEVEN O CLOCK on Tuesday. Keith will be sending everyone a reminder too. Hope to see you all then.
Cheers
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 August 2020 10 01
And once again we wake to the gentle patter of rain. But never mind. The sun shone for us yesterday as we enjoyed another strumalong in Coseley. Some old friends came and it was lovely to see them and you all. Hope to fit another one in, between the showers next Tuesday.
On to the set list for tomorrow night.
King of the Road. “Altogether now”.
A Grand and Healthy Life. I need to practise this. And the singing.
I’m into Something Good. Heard this the other day. It reminded me we should play it.
Last Thing On My Mind. This has been hidden away for a while.
Love Is All Around. A 2 strums chord song like .........
Play that Song. I’m starting to like this the more I play it.
Blame it On Me. Not hard really, just looks complicated.
Precious Time. The Summer is slipping away quickly.
On the Road Again. An old favourite about old friends.
Rollin In My Sweet Babies Arms. I’d forgotten about this.
Obladi Oblada. Another Beatles song people like.
Tickle My Heart. A light hearted song to end on.
I hope you enjoy playing the songs. Whether you can join us on Thursday night or not.
Take care and look forward to see you all again, very soon.
Keep safe, keep dry ☔️☔️, and keep strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 August 2020 18 23
After consulting the oracle, reading the tea leaves, and looking at the seaweed. The weather forecast for tomorrow night doesn’t look very good. There is heavy rain forecast for the day, which might dry out by the evening, but the deciding factor is the strong winds which means it will not be very pleasant to sit outside. Therefore we have decided we will NOT be meeting at the Cricket Club on Tuesday. It is a shame but we think for the best. We will meet on Zoom as usual on Thursday. And hope to catchup with everyone when we can.
Please note.
Keith, Lynn, myself and Joe will be on holiday next Tuesday 1st September, which means we will miss two weeks of SUS.
Our next planned Zoom meeting will be on 17th September. In the meantime, I will send out the set list on Wednesday and we will see you on Thursday. Thanks for your understanding. Take care and see you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 August 2020 12 09
Hope you’re all doing ok and not suffering from the wind too much (ooh Matron). It was a shame we couldn’t get together last night, but I’m glad we didn’t try. We don’t want to disturb Terry’s wig! Oh oh. I’m in trouble now! Tee hee!
So On to Thursday night’s set list. I’ve added a few extra as it’s a “theme night”.
As we have a Bank Holiday this weekend I thought I would chose songs to do with holidays, sunshine, etc. You may want to wear your favourite holiday outfits, but no you can’t wear your mankini, Keith D.
Hats, loud shirts, sunglasses, cocktails on the terrace? Sounds like a plan.
So here’s the list. Have fun!
Summer Holiday. We have to start with this!
Have You Ever Seen the Rain? Just a little joke!
In the Country. Don’t fancy camping in this weather.
In the Summertime. While it’s still with us.
Iko Iko. It’s carnival time.
Fisherman’s Blues. Visit Devon, or is it Cornwall?
Leaving On A Jet Plane? Yes on Tuesday.
Island In the Sun? Yes please.
Me n Jane in a plane. Travelling again.
Octopus’ Garden. We might see this.
Sunny Afternoon. Let’s hope so.
Tequila Sunrise. I may not be able to play it but I can drink them.
Waterloo Sunset. If you have a sun rise, you have to have one of these.
Yellow Bird. A lovely calypso to round off the first half.
As you know we are on holiday next week, so there won’t be a meeting for the next TWO Weeks. Our next Zoom meeting will be on the 17th September. In the mean time if you want to play along with some recordings, we have put some new songs on the forum to play along to. You’ll find them on SUs Music mp3 to play along to.
We hope you enjoy them.
In the meantime. See you tomorrow night ready for a jolly holiday vibe.
Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 August 2020 14 49
Thanks to you all who joined us for our theme night, last night. I hope you all enjoyed i and we will have more of them in the future. We will have a break for now and will see you on 17th September. In the mean time, you can use the mp3 on here to strumalong to.
Take care all, and see you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 September 2020 10 40
Yes, we are back and looking forward to seeing you all on Thursday night on Zoom. We had a lovely time and we seem to have bought the sunshine back with us. Let’s hope it stays warm, I don’t want to put the central heating on yet!
The new restrictions of “no more than six” are creating different interpretations of the rules. We know some groups are getting together indoors and I know there were new guidelines released yesterday regarding choirs and musical groups, but it is still a minefield and there is no clear guidance saying yes or no. We have heard from some members and would welcome your views. Maybe tomorrow we could spare some UKE time to a short discussion of people’s views? We would have to manage the “muting” carefully, but if you wish to comment please either share on the Zoom comments, or the good old fashioned “raise your hand”. No decision will be made immediately, but we would like your thoughts.
So, on to the songs.
Let’s start with the first in the book
59th Street Bridge Song. Remember we repeat the first verse again. P9
Bottle of Wine. Apparently we have all drunk more during this time. What a surprise! P33
Five Foot Two. Oh how I wish I was. I think I’m getting shorter. P64
San Francisco Bay Blues. Remember to hum instead of harmonica. P165
Happy Together. I love the contrast between verse and chorus in this. P75
Hello MaryLou. We haven’t sung this for a while. P77
It’s Now Or Never. I saw a piece somewhere that Elvis played ukulele. Is that right? P106
Maggie May. A favourite of a couple of you. P125
Rollin In My Sweet Baby’s Arms. Join in where you can! P161
Sunny Afternoon. Bought in by Keith * Reminder for me. He plays it twice! P174
Take Good Care of My Baby. Fingers crossed for the opening part. P179
Take It Easy. Classic Eagles. P180
The Bare Necessities. Just by itself, not the medley. P183
The Urban Spaceman. You can play kazoo, but I will hum cos of distortion. P192
And finally,
Under The Moon of Love. P207
As ever, there will be a break for a short time and that may be the time to discuss future arrangements.
Hope you can join us. If there is anyone who would like help with Zoom please feel free to contact us.
See you all soon.
Take care, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 18 September 2020 10 48
Hope you enjoyed our Zoom get together last night, after what seemed a very long time away. It was lovely seeing everyone again. And thanks to everyone who gave us their thoughts on the possibility of meeting on a Thursday night. We will discuss it further and do some research on available venues and report back when possible. if you wish to comment on future plans, please contact Keith or myself.
Thanks again and stay safe
Di x
Post by: Keith on 19 September 2020 12 05
Hi Everyone,
This Sunday afternoon 20/09/20, we are going to have a SUS Sunday strum-along at the Coseley cricket club.
The address is:
Coseley Cricket club
Pear Tree Lane
Coseley
WV14 8HA.
The start time is 3:00pm.
We will play for 2 hours with a short break.
The Bar and toilet facilities will be open.
Can I please ask that if you want a drink to purchase it from the bar please. Rather than bring your own. As we are getting the field and facilities free of charge. This will help support the club, Thanks.
Please bring a folding chair, Music stand and your music which will be the new 2020 songbook. Pegs to hold the music sheets down.
Now a few items to note about our Covid19 Safety procedures, please adhere to them.
We have been asked not to bring any children along.
We will have marked the field out to show you where to set up.
Please do not mingle with the other strummers.
Please keep to the social distancing measures.
Please do not share your music or kit with anyone else.
Please fill in your details on the register for the track and trace.
Hand Sanitiser will be available but bring your own too.
Don't forget your mask's to wear inside the clubhouse.
There's a picture attached to help you find the gate if you've not been before.
Looking forward to seeing you.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Diane Dukes on 21 September 2020 10 17
What a lovely day at the Cricket Club, yesterday. I do hope you all enjoyed playing together. The weather was perfect for us and everything worked out really well with the social distancing arrangements. Thank you for your help in that. We hope to do it again sometime. I think I said next week, if the weather is good. But the forecast isn’t promising, and then I realised Joe and I will be away visiting family next weekend. So fingers crossed for the week after.
Once again thanks everyone and see you again soon.
Stay safe and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 September 2020 09 38
Once again we are here to get together, virtually, on Thursday night, on Zoom. Six months now since this terrible virus affected our lives. But, we can make the best of the situation and strum along together, with the odd “live” opportunity, like last Sunday. It was lovely seeing friends again. If the weather is kind we may try it again. But not this weekend I’m afraid. The forecast isn’t good. So, join us tomorrow for a chat and some music.
Here’s the set list.
Bright side of the Road. P35. Cheery one to start with.
Brown Eyed Girl. P36. Another Van the Man song.
Everything Stops For Tea. P61. But not time for a break, yet.
Fly Me To The Moon. P67. Lovely Tune. Some tricky chords to practise.
Hey Good Lookin. P80. An old favourite.
I Have A Dream. P87. Some of you choose this. Get the timing right, Di.
I Recall a Gypsy Woman. P90. Another Classic.
Jackson. P. 108. Listen to the mp3. It will give you another idea how it goes.
King of the Road. P114. No problem with this.
Love Is All Around. P122. Just celebrated our Anniversary Awwww
Meet Me On The Corner. P130. Despite the pundits a great song.
Obladi Oblada. P139. Great Beatles song.
Precious Time. P151. Oops! Another Van Morrison Song. Didn’t realise.
Singing The Blues. P168. Everyone can singalong.
Teach Your Children. P180. Not done this for awhile.
The Night Has 1000 Eyes. P190.
Look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Gotta dash, got a date with the hairdresser.
Bye for now,
Keep safe, keep smiling, keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 September 2020 12 24
Hope you are all keeping well. We had a lovely weekend in Norwich, although it rained for most of the time, but it was worth it to see the family.
Hope you can join us on Zoom on Thursday, so here’s the set list.
Forever Autumn. P 69 (Straight in after count)
The Blackpool Belle P 183 (Get the long songs over with early)
Putting on the Style. P152 (ditto)
Penny Lane. P 148 ( yes, I will practise it)
Ruby P.162 Timing is all.
Roaring Twenties Medley P157 Sing up everyone
Love of the Common People. P123
Last Thing on my Mind. P115.
Karma Chameleon. P113. Play through the acapella
It Must Be Love. P104 Not too slow
Travelling Light. P204
Old Time Medley No. 2 P143. Haven’t done this before I think. Let’s give it a try.
Listen To Me. P120 Not always good advise
Little Things Mean a Lot. P121
I Saw Her Standing There. P91. We don’t play this one too often either.
Well that’s all for now. I’m running out of battery, so will end it there.
Have a good week.
See you soon.
Keep happy, keep trying and keep strummin
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 02 October 2020 12 03
It was a pleasure to see everyone last night on Zoom. There was lots of chat and good humour spread around last night. Hope you enjoyed it as much as we did.
I hate to mention Christmas too early, but we will be reviewing the Christmas songbook, so if anyone has a suggestion to include, please feel free to let us know. I’m sure there must be some new songs out there we could use. Contact us in the usual way.
Thanks again and see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 02 October 2020 12 22
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1230981580580821
Post by: Diane Dukes on 07 October 2020 10 16
Hope you are all keeping well and have managed to dodge the showers, rain, deluge that we have had, (and still might have) lately. In order to keep our spirits up and to have a bit of fun, we have a WEATHER theme this week and I hope you will all get out your sou’westers, welly boots, galoshes and umbrellas just to celebrate the typical British weather.
☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️☔️
Coincidentally the set list is weather related too. I do hope you enjoy them
Bad Moon Rising. P28. Hope we don’t get hurricanes a blowing, but you never know.
Bus Stop. P39 We have all stood waiting for a bus in the rain.
Flowers in the Rain. P66. One of our new ones.
Forever Autumn. P69. The Summer Sun IS fading.
Have You Ever Seen the Rain? P77. You couldn’t mss it.
A timely tribute to Johnny Nash.
I Can See Clearly Now. P86. This went down well last week.
Rhythm of the Rain. P154. Ok, no more rain songs.
How about Island In The Sun? P103.
Where Have All The Flowers Gone? P. 216 Blown away by this next song.
And finally, for the weather related tunes. They Call the Wind Mariah. P198.
What A Day for a Daydream. P212. Let’s give this a go.
When I’m 64. P215. Let’s try this again. I’ll get the “dings” in the right place.
Make You Feel My Love. P127. Not tried this before on Zoom.
All Around My Hat. P21. Let’s give this an airing.
And finally,
It’s a Grand and Healthy Life. P13. Cos it is. Despite it all.
So that’s all for now. Hope you can join us on Thursday, usual time, and if you have any suggestions for Christmas songs. Let us know.
Take care all, and see you Thursday.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 09 October 2020 11 04
What a good night, with some very inventive interpretations of the theme night. (A brilliant idea from Martin with the snorkel)! Thanks everyone.
We hope to meet up for a Sunday Strumalong, this Sunday 11th, but of course it depends on any lockdown announcements for our area. Up to this point, Dudley is still open. But watch this space, it might change. If it can go ahead, an email will be sent out to give you details and remind you of the system and rules in place. In the meantime, if not on Sunday we will see you on Thursday night on Zoom.
Thanks again, take care.
Di x
Post by: Keith on 10 October 2020 10 03
This Sunday afternoon 11/10/20, we are going to have a SUS Sunday strum-along at the Coseley cricket club.
The address is:
Coseley Cricket club
Pear Tree Lane
Coseley
WV14 8HA.
The start time is 3:00pm.
We will play for 2 hours with a short break.
The Bar and toilet facilities will be open.
Can I please ask that if you want a drink, to purchase it from the bar please. Rather than bring your own. As we are getting the field and facilities free of charge. This will help support the club, Thanks.
Please bring a folding chair, Music stand and your music which will be the new 2020 songbook. Pegs to hold the music sheets down.
Now a few items to note about our Covid19 Safety procedures, please adhere to them.
We have been asked not to bring any children along.
We will have marked the field out to show you where to set up.
Please do not mingle with the other strummers.
Please keep to the social distancing measures.
Please walk around the outside of the group if you can.
Please do not share your music or kit with anyone else.
Please fill in your details on the register for the track and trace.
Hand Sanitiser will be available but bring your own too.
Don't forget your mask's to wear inside the clubhouse.
There's a picture attached to help you find the gate if you've not been before.
Looking forward to seeing you. Cheers, Keith.
Post by: Diane Dukes on 11 October 2020 19 22
What a great afternoon at Coseley Cricket Club today. Thank you to all who came along, I hope you all enjoyed it. The weather was cool, but with occasional bright sunshine, making it very pleasant. Thanks to Lynn for her help, Keith and Terry for great playing and the audience for their support, but most of all thanks to you who came along to sing and play together. Take care all of you and see you again soon.
Love Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 14 October 2020 09 48
Here we are again another week gone. I’ve lost count of what week we are on now. All I know is that it’s 14 weeks till Christmas and 15 weeks to the end of 2020. The sooner this year is gone the better, I think. Can’t we press replay and start all over again? Anyway, talking of Christmas we are looking for any suggestions for the Christmas songbook. So any new songs you may know, please send them for consideration.
We also very much need your responses to Keith’s email that was sent out this week about how you feel about going back to the Conservative Club. We have received some replies, but need you all to respond in order to gauge if it is do-able, ( can’t spell feasible, oops, I just have). It’s important that we hear from all of you. Cheers.
So, that’s all the news, I think.
On to the set list. No theme this week, just a mix of old and new songs as usual.
Folsom Prison Blues. A well-known favourite to warm us up.
I Walk the Line. Keeping the Johnny Cash theme.
Obladi Oblada. This version I think works well.
A Fool Such as I. One for the Elvis fans.
Wagon Wheel. A steady tempo to fit the words in.
Brown Eyed Girl. Van the man!
Tickle My Heart. We played this on Sunday. I’d forgotten how nice it is.
Blame It On Me. A fairly fast strumming pattern.
Leaving On A Jet Plane. Don’t we all wish we were.
Waterloo Sunset. Let’s have another go at this.
Island In the Sun. Sunday’s version of this was sublime, with Terry on percussion. It will be a faster tempo tonight, though. Can’t replicate it, but will try.
Here Comes My Baby. I will try to get the “tings” in the right place.
San Francisco Bay Blues. Let’s end on an upbeat old favourite too.
Well that’s all for now folks. Please give us your opinions on going back to the club. Your thoughts are important to us. And also any Christmas suggestions too.
Looking forward to seeing you on Thursday.
Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 October 2020 11 15
Thanks to everyone who joined us live at the Lordsmore Studios in Coseley, last night. We hope the sound was good, and that my voice didn’t distract from the sound quality. It was great seeing everyone, virtually, and hopefully we will be able to do the same set up again next week. Thanks as well to everyone who responded to the email Keith sent out about the Zoom meetings and the Conservative Club. He will be in touch shortly.
See you soon.
Take care everyone, and Happy Birthday to Mick for today!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 21 October 2020 13 24
Hope you are all keeping well. Before I give you the set list I must first of all thank all of our sponsors who have contributed to keeping our Zoom meetings going. Even those who cannot join us on Thursdays have contributed and we appreciate it very much. If this terrible virus continues to stifle our meetings, we can continue online for a number of months. It is very good of you all. And if anyone who would like some help going onto Zoom, please do ask, we would be happy to help you set it up.
So onto the set list.
A Teenager in Love. P16. I remember it well.........Not!
Alexander’s Ragtime Band. P20. I love the opening of this.
Amarillo. P24. We might have a good ‘Boom Boom’ from Terry.
Black Velvet Band. P30. This was chosen last week and hasn’t been played for months.
Daydream Believer P49. We’ll have a go at this too.
End of the Line. P58 I like this.
Enjoy Yourself. P59 Let’s get a ska rhythm going.
Hold The Line. P81 A Rod (Stewart) Song, not a stick!
I Can Help. P85. I like the gentle rhythm to this.
The Jungle Book Medley. P112
Listen To Me. P120 Let’s have another go at this.
Lying Eyes. P124. It’s still a favourite.
And let’s end on Rock and Roll Medley. P158.
I look forward to seeing you all again on Thursday.
If you can’t join us on Zoom take care of yourselves, keep in touch, keep smiling and
Keep strummin!
Di x
Post by: Wyn Price on 21 October 2020 16 55
Wyn
Post by: Keith on 22 October 2020 09 14
There is no fixed amount to contribute, it's entirely up to yourself. Any donation will be gratefully received, it looks like we'll be on Zoom for some time.
The Zoom sessions cost £14.39 per month, I can't really offer a guide as the donations.
Thanks.
Cheers Keith
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 October 2020 11 07
Have you recovered from last night? I don’t know about you, but I enjoyed myself and I hope it enhanced your evening’s entertainment too. Thanks to Terry and Keith who joined our bubble while we still can and of course Joe, who helps me more than he realises. Unfortunately we won’t be able to meet on Sunday, as mentioned. Sorry about that. But another time perhaps.
So our next Zoom meeting will be on Thursday when we celebrate Halloween.. Wear you spookiest outfits and join in the fun.
Cheers till next time.
Take care all.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 October 2020 22 51
I know you’ve been waiting patiently for the new set list for tomorrow night. I wanted to hear of any changes to the tier system in Dudley, I understand Dudley will change to Tier Two this weekend, therefore, we should be able to have a bass player and drummer tomorrow at least.
So, don your scariest outfits or masks, ( I’ve seen some good ones, tonight) and join us for a strum on Zoom. The same system as before, though Keith will be sending out the invitations as usual.
So here goes. Spot the Link. Ha ha ! 👻👺💀🤡
Bad Moon Rising. P.28 A classic.
Ghost Riders in the Sky. P72.
Hotel California. P. 83. I told you I would try it.
I Hear You Knockin. P. 88 This was Keith’s idea.
Last Thing on My Mind. P. 115. Ok not obvious.
Precious Time. P 151.
Waltzing Matilda. P. 210. It mentions a ghost.
When I’m Dead and Gone. P214 A bit morbid, I know.
Space Oddity. P 170. I wish he got back home.
Iko Iko. P 96.
I Will Survive. P. 95.
Green Green Grass Of Home. P 74.
I hope you can join us. See you soon.
Take care, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 October 2020 08 12
Lordsmore Studios we’re inundated with SPOOKTACULAR ghosts, ghouls and demons last night. It was a fantastic night again, thanks to Keith, Terry and Joe. Lovely to see our strummers joining in with the fun too. And Dave and Maureen joining us, hope you enjoyed strumming with us and we will see you again next week. It will be different next week unfortunately, as Dudley will be in Tier Two and only our “bubble” will be allowed to meet indoors. But I hope to see you all again to celebrate Bonfire Night. And no, I’m not dressing up as a firework! 😄😄😄
Take care of yourselves and each other.
See you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 November 2020 12 43
Well what a difference a week makes. Last week we were wondering how Level 2 would affect us. And wham! Along comes Boris with his Lockdown number 2. Despite the changes, we will continue to meet on Thursday, with Joe and myself. I hope you can join us.
In other news, we have details of another Zoom session being led by Worcester Ukulele Group, who usually perform in aid of Children in Need. You may have seen them last year on the Midlands section of CIN night. On 9th November they are dedicating their Zoom session to CIN and invite all to join them. They are using original, or their own tracks on YouTube, with scrolling display. If you are interested you can contact them on ukezoom@emaildodo.com and they will give you the meeting number and password.
Finally, this is your last chance to suggest songs for the Christmas book. Keith and I are adding new songs and adjusting others. So any suggestions, then now’s your final chance.
Ok. Here is the set list for this week. An upbeat selection to keep our spirits high, at the same time recognising this as being a week for Remembrance.
Hope you enjoy.
Act Naturally. P17. Bright and breezy song.
Baby Face/Pretty Baby. P26. Another cheery number.
Bottle of Wine. P34. Let’s see if me and Joe can get the intro right. Place your bets!!
Fings Ain’t What They Used To Be. P63. Ain’t that the truff! ♀️
Hey Good Lookin. P80. Again a jolly song.
I Love To Boogie. P89. Keeping the Groove going.
Itchycoo Park. P105. Yes, we have to do songs to stretch me, now and again.
King of the Road. P114. Back to the old favourites.
Obladi Oblada. P139. Another newer one that’s becoming a standard.
Roaring Twenties Medley. P157. Sing up everyone.
Rollin In My Sweet Baby’s Arms. P161. Another old favourite. Listen for that train.
Sweet Georgia Brown. P175. Keeping the rhythm going.
The Young Ones. P194. To celebrate Cliff’s 80th birthday. Happy Birthday, Sir Cliff.
And finally,
Where Have all the Flowers Gone? P216.
Hope you can join us Thursday . I know it’s Bonfire Night but I’ll bring the toffee apples, if you bring the bangers!
See you all soon, take care of yourselves and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 11 November 2020 12 32
Another week has fled by. It feels like Christmas already in our house with the number of festive tunes buzzing around in my head. I’m thinking of getting the decorations out, but need to curb my enthusiasm as I know we will be fed up of them by December. So I’ll hang fire till then.
I hope you’re all keeping well and busy during this lockdown 2. But joining us on Zoom on Thursday is one way to meet up with friends and have a chat, just to keep in touch makes all the difference don’t you think?
So anybody new to Zoom and would like help please ask us. We will do what we can to guide you through it. Or you can have fun playing along to the songs on the mp3. Either way I hope you enjoy this selection.
All I Have To Do Is Dream. P22. Nothing too difficult there. I hope.
Bright Side Of The Road. P.35. A lively one.
Can’t Take My Eyes Off You. P.42. Don’t panic! Cmaj7 is easier than you think.
Fly Me To The Moon. P67. Here it is again, but with a barre chord, easier to play than say.
Freight Train. P70. A classic, I wonder if Keith has found his train whistle?
Hound Dog. P 87. Just follow the instrumental as written, but the E is an E7. And a single A chord instead of E7 at the end.
I Walk The Line. P93. I do like the key changes in this. But bear with us in verse 3. Tricky change.
It’s Only A Paper Moon. P107. Chosen cos I like it.
Jackson. P108. A good old wrangle between husband and wife.
Jolene. P111. We haven’t played this in a while.
Little Things Mean A Lot. P121. I think they have made up after the argument in the last two songs. It’s just like telling a story isn’t it?
Me And Jane In A Plane. P 129. Awwww they are getting married, again.
OOh La La. P141. Now then, now then, don’t go there. Just enjoy the song.
Oom Pah Pah. P145. I don’t think we have played this at all since March. Can’t remember, so we will give it an airing.
So that’s the lot for this week. I do hope to see you on Thursday.
Stay safe everyone, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 13 November 2020 10 13
Once again a really enjoyable night. Lots of chat about how useful a pen and paper is😁😁😁😁😁! Yes, you had to be there. Hope it was fun for you too. Look after yourself, be kind to yourself and each other. ( Sir Tom’s “KindFest” starts today). And we will see you next week.
Stay safe.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 18 November 2020 11 16
I hope you are all keeping well. And keeping busy. Keith and myself have been working on the new Christmas Book and are pleased to say that the book can be downloaded from the Forum. It can be found under “New Songs” and does include a few new ones, and some revisions of old songs. We are recording the new songs so you can get to know them and will be putting them on the forum. We will try a few out next week. Building up to our virtual Christmas Party on 17th December. But more about that in the next few weeks.
On to this week’s set list.
Freight Train. P. 70. We might try Keith’s intro again.
Have You Ever Seen The Rain? P 77. Now and again.
I Can See Clearly. P86. Count the long notes carefully.
I’ll See You In My Dreams. P98. Yes I promised I’d do this one.
I’m Into Something Good. P99. Herman’s Hermits number.
It’s Now Or Never. P106. Bring on your inner Elvis.
King of the Road. P114. All together now.
Love Is All Around. P122.
Midnight Special. P131. An old favourite.
On The Road Again. P144. And another.
Putting On The Style. P 152. Where’s me car horn?
Riptide. P155 Lots of people have got used to this now.
Runaround Sue. P163.
Take Good Care Of My Baby. P178.
Take It Easy. P179.
Well that’s all for now.
Look forward to seeing you on Thursday night and don’t forget to download the Christmas Book.
Take care all,
Keep smiling and keep strummin
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 20 November 2020 10 10
Thank you for another great night, strumming and playing “together”. It was lovely to welcome Jim, for the first time, and we hope to see him again next week. Talking of next week, bring along your new 2020 Christmas book which you can download from the forum, as we will be running through some of the new songs, on Thursday. In the meantime, have a great week and keep safe everyone.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 November 2020 14 36
Don’t worry I haven’t got me days wrong. I just thought you might like see this. It made me laugh out loud.Enjoy it.
1. When one door closes and another door opens, you are probably in prison.
2. To me, "drink responsibly" means don't spill it.
3. Age 60 might be the new 40, but 9:00 pm is the new midnight.
4. It's the start of a brand new day, and I'm off like a herd of turtles.
5. The older I get, the earlier it gets late.
6. When I say, "The other day," I could be referring to any time between yesterday and 15 years ago.
7. I remember being able to get up without making sound effects.
8. I had my patience tested. I'm negative.
9. Remember, if you lose a sock in the dryer, it comes back as a Tupperware lid that doesn't fit any of your containers.
10. If you're sitting in public and a stranger takes the seat next to you, just stare straight ahead and say, "Did you bring the money?"
11. When you ask me what I am doing today, and I say "nothing," it does not mean I am free. It means I am doing nothing.
12. I finally got eight hours of sleep. It took me three days, but whatever.
13. I run like the winded.
14. I hate when a couple argues in public, and I missed the beginning and don't know whose side I'm on.
15. When someone asks what I did over the weekend, I squint and ask, "Why, what did you hear?"
16. When you do squats, are your knees supposed to sound like a goat chewing on an aluminum can stuffed with celery?
17. I don't mean to interrupt people. I just randomly remember things and get really excited.
18. When I ask for directions, please don't use words like "east."
19. Don't bother walking a mile in my shoes. That would be boring. Spend 30 seconds in my head. That'll freak you right out.
20. Sometimes, someone unexpected comes into your life out of nowhere, makes your heart race, and changes you forever. We call those people cops.
21. My luck is like a bald guy who just won a comb.
My favourites are number 9, 17, 18, 19 What’s yours?
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 25 November 2020 08 46
Hope you are all fit and well, and that you are ready to join us on Zoom on Thursday night. As mentioned last week we will be going through some of the Christmas songs that are in the new Christmas book, sent out last week. Keith has re-sent the link to anyone who had trouble downloading it. If there is anyone who needs help with it, please let us know.
So over to the set list.
Folsom Prison Blues. P68. There was a great documentary on tv about JC and his Scottish heritage, this week.
Everything Stops For Tea. P61. I know, we’ve only just started.
Happy Together. P76.
Dream A Little Dream Of Me. P54. Treacle will be pleased.
The Jungle Book Medley. P112. One to wake us up after all that dreaming.
Karma Chameleon. P113. Don’t bother with the a capello bit.
Lying Eyes. P124. Another Eagles classic
Meet Me On The Corner. P130. No! You can’t go out!
Wooden Heart. Time to bring out your best Elvis impersonations.
Now on to the Christmas list.
All Alone At Christmas. P2 A song from Home Alone 2.
All I Want For Christmas Is You. P3/4 Yes it’s a 2 pager I’m afraid. I blame Mariah Carey for holding those notes too long.
Blue Christmas P6. Another Elvis classic.
Holly Jolly Christmas. P14. As the title says it’s very jolly.
And finally,
Step Into Christmas P28. An Elton John song that runs along quite nicely.
So that’s the first forage towards Christmas. Perhaps it’s a little bit more exciting now we can possibly plan to meet family and friends.
If you want to practise the new songs, Keith has sent out a link to listen to our arrangement of them.
Look forward to seeing you on Thursday or if you can’t join us then keep strummin, keep smiling and keep positive. As the man said, there’s light at the end of the tunnel. It may be a “Freight Train”, but it’s something.
By the way. Did you like yesterday’s post? Just thought it might brighten your day.
Stay safe all.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 27 November 2020 10 05
We had a great time last night, despite some technical problems for Keith. But thanks to everyone who joined us, especially welcome to Tony, who joined us for the first time.
I hope you were all able to play the new Christmas songs we tried last night. It’s nice to have new tunes to play. There will be more songs next week, one new one and some from the old Christmas book which have been adapted. So look out for those.
On a personal note, my Covid test came back negative, so as I said last night. I was born with a cough. And I think I will self medicate with a drop of whiskey. Cheers!
So till next week.
Take care, stay safe and keep coughing, errrr sorry, I mean strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 02 December 2020 16 52
I’m a little late with my post this week. I have been out for a bit of retail therapy this morning and then a swim this afternoon as the pool was back open today HOORAY!
So things are looking a bit brighter, with today’s news about the vaccine and It’s a positive step towards normality. May it continue.
On to the business of the day.
We look forward to seeing you Thursday night on Zoom. Again, in the first part of the evening, there will be a mixture of
songs from the main book and then a few Christmas songs. Hope you enjoy the mix.
Here goes.
Burning Bridges p.38
Bus Stop p39
In the Country p101
It Must Be Love p104
Maxwells Silver Hammer p128
Obladi Oblada p139
Peggy Sue p147
Play that Song p149
Rhythm of the Rain p154
Rollin In My Sweet Baby’s Arms p161
And from the Christmas book
This Christmas p29
White Christmas p31
Winter Wonderland p32
Silent Night 26
Silver Bells p27
Have a good time playing these at home if you cannot join us on Zoom. And look after yourselves, everyone.
See you soon, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 December 2020 10 32
Thanks to you all who joined us last night. I hope you enjoyed the strumming and the chat. A reminder that we will be having a virtual Christmas party on the 17th December, then we will have a week off on the 24th for Christmas Eve. But please let us know how you feel about a Zoom meeting on New Year’s Eve. We can have our usual meeting at the normal time 7:30 until ten, or we could delay the start until 9:00pm and see through to midnight. We are easy either way as we won’t be going anywhere!. We will be pleased to hear your thoughts. So, until next week. Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strumming.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 09 December 2020 11 50
Another week has flown by and we are rushing towards Christmas and the end of this unprecedented year. (I swore I wouldn’t use that word)! But here we are again with another selection of songs to play along with us either on Zoom, or for your own entertainment. Talking of Christmas, we will be playing a few Christmassy tunes tomorrow to prepare you for the virtual Christmas party next week. I hope you will all get into the party mood by dressing in your reindeer outfits or Snowman hats, and I do hope there will be one or two Santas as well. I know at least one white beard who will be perfect for the role. Does anyone have a song they would like to share with us? We will have our open mike night as usual, so here’s your chance to take the lead in your choice of song. So that will be on the 17th December. Hope to see you there.
The week after that we will have a week off as it is Christmas Eve.
Then the following Thursday will be New Years Eve, and, if you wish it, we can do a Zoom meeting. We could start and end the meeting at the usual time ie. from 7:30 until 10pm. Or maybe start at 9pm in order to see in the New Year at Midnight. I promise there won’t be bagpipes! . Either option is available. Please let us know what you prefer.
So now onto the set list for tomorrow.
Black Velvet Band. P29. A rousing start.
Bottle of Wine. P34. Maybe next week.
Bright Side of the Road. P35. Not played this for a while.
End of the Line. P58. One that Joe can join in with.
Enjoy Yourself. P59. It’s later than you think.
Octopus’s Garden. P140.
Rawhide. P153. Yeehaaaaa!
Rock and Poll Medley. P158. Time for a jive, I’ve been watching Strictly. Ha ha.
Singing the Blues. P168. Nice and steady.
Sloop John B. P169.
Then from the Christmas Book.
Calypso Carol. A lovely, upbeat carol.
He’ll Be Coming Down the Chimney. Another happy, festive ditty.
Reindeer Blues. Exactly like Fisherman’s Blues. Just new words.
Rocking Around the Christmas Tree. Another cheerful song to end with.
I do hope you can join us tomorrow. Let us know if you wish to play for us on the 17th. And If you would like a meeting on New Years Eve.
We look forward to seeing you again tomorrow.
Stay safe everyone, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 December 2020 10 44
So here it is, PARTY TIME Yes it’s time to dig out your Christmas jumpers and angel costumes and reindeer antler hats. Get the mulled wine on the hob and make your mince pies.
It will be a bit of a moveable feast as a few strummers have kindly volunteered to do solos, and we will be working hard to get as good a sound as possible. If anyone else would like to offer, then please do get in touch.
We will start at the usual time and the set list will be adapted as needed.
So here goes.
Buddy Holly Medley P37. Holly? Do you get the link?
Brown Eyed Girl P36.
Freight Train P70
Here Comes My Baby. P79
Hold the Line. P81
Rollin in My Sweet Baby’s Arms. P161
Take It Easy P179
They Call the Wind Mariah. P198
Now from the Christmas Book.
Jingle Bell Rock. P16
Let it Snow P. 18
Winter Wonderland P32
Santa Got a Ukulele for Christmas. P25
Holly Jolly Christmas. P14.
We will still have a break as usual, but will play it by ear, so to speak as to time. I hope you can make it and look forward to seeing you.
As mentioned, there will NOT be a Zoom meeting next week, Christmas Eve. But there WILL be one for New Years Eve.
It looks like we will Zoom at our usual time and finish around 10 as normal. As this is the preferred times.
More about that tomorrow.
So that’s all for now.
Keep cheerful, keep smiling, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 18 December 2020 10 17
Last night’s Christmas Party was a blast. I do hope you enjoyed yourselves. Thank you once again to the soloists who performed for us. You did a great job. Do you fancy a regular spot? . But seriously our next meeting will be on New Years Eve, so if anyone would like to do a solo on that night, then please let us know, and we will sort out a sound check to get the best out of your Zoom system. In the meantime, all I can say is that the club has survived a difficult year, thanks to your support. And here’s to an equally successful 2021, with lots of possible chances to meet up live.
So, finally, Merry Christmas everyone and a happy and healthy new year. Right, I’m off to feed my Christmas cake one last time.
Cheers.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 December 2020 11 46
I hope you have all had a good Christmas, and despite the additional restrictions you celebrated with your loved ones either close by or online. The news of another vaccine becoming available is very welcome and a bonus for the new year.
Talking of which, our New Years Eve Zoom session will be taking place on Thursday, starting at 7:30 as usual and ending at 10pm. We look forward to seeing you there.
Here is the set list. I am using a small selection from the Christmas book and others from the main book. Then as usual, it will be your choice.
Christmas book.
Frosty the Snowman ☃️ P 10 Well, it had to be didn’t it?
Jingle Bell Rock. P16
Let It Snow. P18. Keeping the theme going.
WinterWonderland. P 32.
Then from the main book
All Around My Hat. P29.
I Walk the Line. P93.
Meet Me On The Corner. P130
The Night Has a Thousand Eyes. P190
The Wild Rover. P193
Then I Kissed Her. P195
Those Were the Days. P200.
Wagon Wheel. P209.
Waterloo Sunset. P211
And then, to round the first half off.
Precious Times. P151.
So, that’s it for now.
See you on Thursday.
Stay safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 January 2021 11 03
HAPPY NEW YEAR to you all. Hope you managed to see in 2021 safely and in good spirits. There were certainly lots of fireworks going off all night. They were so happy to see the back of 2020. . Anyway Is was good to see you all on our Zoom night. Thank you for joining us and look forward to seeing you again next week. So on behalf of Keith, Joe and myself, can I wish you a very happy new year and to a time when we can once again meet up in person.
Take care, all.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 06 January 2021 11 11
Well here we are again, back in lockdown. All the more reason to enjoy an evening with friends, playing your ukulele. I look forward to seeing you on Thursday at the usual time. Hope you enjoy the choice of songs.
Here goes.
Bus Stop. P39
From a Jack to a King. P71
Leaning on a Lamppost. P116
Little Things Mean a Lot. P121
Morningtown Ride P134
San Francisco Bay Blues. P165
Rock Around the Clock. P159
The Boxer. P184
The Urban Spaceman. P191
These Boots Were Made For Walking. P197
Travelling Light. P204
What a Day For a Daydream. P212
When I’m 64. P215
Yellow Bird. P224.
Keep safe everyone, keep smiling and keep strummin,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 08 January 2021 13 49
A quick thank you to everyone who joined us last night for the first SUS Zoom meeting of 2021. It was a great night, Lovely to see some new faces joining us again. If anyone hasn’t joined us before but would like to, please contact myself or Keith and we will guide you through. That’s all for now, see you next week.
Take care,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 13 January 2021 13 58
Another week has passed. Doesn’t time go quickly when you’re having fun? 🤪🤪🤪. But seriously, I do hope you are keeping well and looking after yourselves. We haven’t seen a few of you lately, keep in touch, as we would like to hear that you’re doing ok. If you’re joining us on Thursday then we have a selection of songs and if you can’t join us, then we hope you are still strummin, in your own home. Don’t forget the mp3s are available if you want to feel the atmosphere of being in the club again.
So here is the set list for Thursday. Hope you enjoy it and we’ll see you Thursday.
Act Naturally. P17.
Baby Face/Pretty Baby. P26.
Brown Eyed Girl. P36.
Country Roads. P43.
End of the Line. P58
Even the Bad Times Are Good. P60.
Folsom Prison Blues. P68.
Hello Mary Lou. P78.
Hey Good Looking. P80
I Love to Boogie. P89.
Obladi Oblada. P139.
Roaring Twenties Medley. P157.
Rolling in my Sweet Baby’s Arms. P161.
Sweet Georgia Brown. P175.
There’s a Kind Of Hush. P196.
So take care all of you, just off to watch the latest soap opera in America, something to do with Peaches 🍑 I think? What a crazy situation.
Stay safe all, keep on keeping on and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 15 January 2021 10 43
I hope you’re all bright eyed and bushy tailed after another fun evening last night. Lots of gaffs and laughs, which added to the fun. Thanks again for your support, it’s lovely seeing you all. Have a good week, stay safe everyone and see you next time.
Btw. If anyone has any suggestions for new songs to try out. Please get in touch. In the mean time, I’m off to have a go at a little ditty called The Irish Rover. 🤭🤭🤭🤭🤭🤣🤣🤣. I hope I get the words right this time.
Take care all.
Di x
Post by: Tracey on 15 January 2021 14 24
Post by: Diane Dukes on 20 January 2021 09 36
Hope you’re all fit and well and in good spirits. The rain is with us but at least it’s not as cold at the moment. In fact, last Sunday we decided to get ourselves out of a rut and had the first bbq of 2021. Joe lit the fire, set up the barbi and Dave joined us for an hour or two. The neighbours thought we were barmy but it did the trick. And it improved our mental health no end. So go on, do something out of the ordinary, like joining us on Thursday night for a strum and singalong. (How about that for a link eh?) so here’s the set list for tomorrow. They are not in numerical order, just to mix it up a bit.
A Teenager in Love. P16
Freight Train. P70
The Blackpool Belle. P
Burning Bridges. P38
On the Road Again. P144.
I’m into Something Good. P99
Have You Ever Seen the Rain? P77
Riptide. P155
Dedicated Follower Of Fashion. P
Wagon Wheel. P209
Puttin on the Agony. P152
Take It Easy. P179
Yellow Bird. P224
Well I hope you enjoy the selection. As I mentioned last week, we are adding new songs to our repertoire ( ooh, that’s a big word for a Wednesday!) So, if you have any suggestions, please get in touch.
In the meantime, stay safe everyone. Look after yourselves, be kind and keep on strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 January 2021 14 13
Thank you for joining us last night. It was a really fun time, and Joe really appreciated the encouragement when making his debut on the cahon. And we do hope you enjoyed our rendition of the Irish Rover, and we still managed to get most of the words right. 😄😄😄😄😄😄
So stay safe everyone. Look forward to see you next week.
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 27 January 2021 11 01
Well the snow has disappeared quickly, so that’s a blessing isn’t it? And the sun is trying hard to make an appearance too, so that can’t be bad. Seeing the sun makes me think of the Sunday strumming we did last year at the Coseley Cricket Club. We can dream of doing that again. They can’t stop you dreaming, yet. 🤭🤭🤭. But, for now, we will be meeting as usual Thursday nights on Zoom. Hope you can join us. Here is the set list:-
Dance the Night Away. P48. I need the exercise.
Dirty Old Town. P53. We haven’t played this for some time. Listen out for the intro.
Enjoy Yourself. P59. Gotta be done.
I Walk the Line. P93. I like the key changes in this.
Jolene. P111. Stand on one leg all you Cricket fans.
Let It Be. P118. I’ll try to keep it upbeat.
Oh La La. p141.
Runaround Sue. P163.
Sweet Caroline. P174. I can’t ignore it any longer. 😄😄
The Jungle Book Medley. P188.
The Wild Rover. P193
They Call the Wind Maria. P198
Under the Boardwalk. P205.
Wooden Heart. P220.
So that’s all for now. If you want to join us for the first time or need any help using Zoom, then don’t hesitate to contact us. We will help where we can. And if you have any songs suggestions to add to our repertoire then again contact myself or Keith or use the forum.
Keep yourself safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 29 January 2021 10 24
Hope you enjoyed last night as much as we did. It was nice to see you and especially Mark and Gill, glad you could join us and look forward to seeing you again next week.
A few bits of information.
As mentioned last night, 2nd February is World Ukulele Day so we are offering an extra Zoom session on Tuesday if you would like to join us. It will start at 8pm, just for an hour or so. Perhaps we can go through some of the newer songs from the book. Please let me or Keith know if you are interested.
Also, next Thursday is loud shirt night.
Lastly, the club needs to update our GDPR. This will involve an easy yes or no answer, but does require you to contact us. Keith will be in touch (not literally, these day)🤣🤣🤣 with details.
Well that’s all for now.
Thanks again and we will see you again soon.
Di x
Post by: ArthurT on 30 January 2021 13 57
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 January 2021 14 51
Post by: Diane Dukes on 03 February 2021 11 41
Hope you are all well, the sun is shining, so we can get outside and get some vitamin D. I dunno if it helps really, but it makes you feel better.
Last night a few of us met on Zoom to go through some of the songs that are more challenging. Thank you everyone who joined us. It was really useful and we are hoping to bring back our last Tuesday of the Month night. We will let you know closer to the date.
So, on to tomorrow night. Here is the set list. Hope you enjoy it. Either playing at home or on Zoom.
Bright side of the Road. P35. Cheery one to start with.
Brown Eyed Girl. P36. Another Van the Man song.
Everything Stops For Tea. P61. But not time for a break, yet.
Fly Me To The Moon. P67. Lovely Tune. Some tricky chords to practise.
Hey Good Lookin. P80. An old favourite.
I Have A Dream. P87. Some of you choose this. Get the timing right, Di.
I Recall a Gypsy Woman. P90. Another Classic.
Jackson. P. 108. Listen to the mp3. It will give you another idea how it goes.
King of the Road. P114. No problem with this.
Meet Me On The Corner. P130.
Obladi Oblada. P139. Great Beatles song.
Precious Time. P151. Oops! Another Van Morrison Song. Didn’t realise.
Singing The Blues. P168. Everyone can singalong.
Sweet Home Alabama. Tony will do the intro for this.
Teach Your Children. P180. Not done this for awhile.
The Night Has 1000 Eyes. P190.
Hope you enjoy the songs.
Another piece of admin for you. We will be sending out our GDPR statement shortly via email. In order to continue receiving our information, we must ask you to confirm that you agree to us keeping your data. It’s a pain, I know, but we have made it as clear and as easy as possible. So please keep an eye out for the email from Keith.
That’s all for now.
Stay healthy, keep your pecker up and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 06 February 2021 16 00
A very quick thank you to all who joined us on Thursday evening. Another fun night, with lots of laughs and conversation.
Also, a big thank you to all who have replied to our GDPR email.
See you next week. Stay safe.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 10 February 2021 13 56
A bit of a delay in posting on the forum today, as it’s a bit of a special day in the Dukes’s household. It’s Joe’s birthday today so I’ve been busy making a cake (wish I could share it with you) and waiting for the birthday boy to pick this week’s set list choices. But he has chosen and here they are. Hope you enjoy playing along with in your own time, or joining us on Thursday on Zoom.
Enjoy Yourself. P59.
Five Foot Two. P65.
Maxwell’s Silver Hammer. P128.
Octopus’s Garden. P140.
Bottle of Wine. P34
Obladi Oblada. P139.
Jamaica Farewell. P109.
Island In the Sun. P103.
Little Things Mean a Lot. P121.
Riptide. P155.
Tickle My Heart. P201.
Have You Ever Seen the Rain. P77
Baby Face/ Pretty Baby. P26.
Leaning on a Lampost. P116.
Enjoy.
And before I go, thank you to everyone who has replied to the GDPR email.
See you on Thursday.
Take care of yourselves. Keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Now back to putting candles on the birthday cake. But I’m not saying how many!
Di x
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 12 February 2021 10 50
Thank you to everyone who joined us last nigh for Joe’s birthday selection. It was lovely to see Chris T last night. Hope you can join us again next week. Hope Tony O and Rob recover quickly, I feel I should give out a quick warning about doing DIY, especially using saws and tools etc. 🔨⛏🛠👩🔬👩🔬 😁😁😁😁 Say no more.
That’s it for now. If you haven’t replied to the GDPR or know someone who hasn’t would you urge them to answer the email.
Thanks again, see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 February 2021 19 43
I’m posting the set list a day early as myself and Joe have a date with the NHS tomorrow morning to have our jab. So I thought I would get ahead of the game.
So this is the set list for this week.
59th Street Bridge Song. P10
Alexander’s Ragtime Band. P20
Buddy Holly Medley. P37
Bye Bye Love. P40
Diana. P52
End of the Line. P58
Fisherman’s Blues. P64
Freight Train. P70
Here Comes My Baby. P79
Listen to Me. P120
Save the Last Dance For Me. P166
Tequila Sunrise. P181
With a Little Help From My Friends. P219.
Enjoy the selection, whether you can see us on Thursday night on Zoom or playing the songs at home.
A quick thank you to those of you who have replied to Keith’s email about the GDPR. If you know of anyone who may not have replied, then please remind them to get in touch. Thanks.
Finally, a small change from our usual Thursday night Zoom meeting. Starting from Thursday night our Zoom meeting will begin at 8PM. And will start at 8pm every week hereafter. Hope this suits you all.
So see you on Thursday 8pm.
So take care all, keep positive, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 February 2021 09 57
What a great night we had last night. The 8 o’ clock start was a success, especially as some members logged on early for a chat. There was a lot of interesting chatter, not always related to Covid or even ukuleles. Brilliant. So that will be adopted every week. We will “open doors” at 7:30, but will start strumming from 8pm. I hope that suits everyone.
Another thing to mention is that we will be having another “Last Tuesday of the Month” next week. We will be introducing new songs, but is open to everyone. Again, like last time, please let us know if you are joining us and we will send you the details and invitation.
Well that’s all, I think. I was glad to see TonyO and Rob were back after they each suffered injuries with DIY tools. The “my injury is worse than yours” debate was declared a draw. 😆😆😆😆😆🔨🛠⛏
Look forward to seeing you next week, with some more of Keith’s startlingly loud sound effects. 🤣🤣🤣🌊🌊🦅🦅🚂🚂🚂🚂⛵️⛵️⛵️⛵️
Keep safe, everyone.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 February 2021 09 28
Another week goes by but we can feel positive that the future will bring us some release from lockdown and we can meet up again eventually face to face. I’m glad that Boris gave us some guidance towards future plans, as it allows us to think ahead. Still some way to go, but we have hope.
Last night we had a Last Tuesday of the Month Zoom meeting. Thanks to all that joined us. We thrashed out some new songs and introduced some new technological techniques (who’s swallowed a dictionary?) that helped us, thanks to Keith’s wizardry. It may be something we will use again in the future. The songs have “all got legs” 🏃♀️🏃♂️🕺🏻🕺🏻🤷♀️ according to Pete, so we will introduce them to you in the coming weeks.
Thanks to everyone who has replied to the GDPR email. We have had over 70 people confirmed their interest. Dunno what would happen if they all turned up one night! But it’s comforting to know that we have so many members interested in what we do.
So, on to the set list.
Bad Moon Rising. P28
Brightside of the Road. P35
Burning Bridges. P38
Folsom Prison Blues. P68
Forever Autumn. P69
Hold the Line. P81
Iko Iko. P96
Last Thing on my Mind. P115
Rollin In My Sweet Baby’s Arms. P161
Take It Easy. P179
The Boxer. P184
Wagon Wheel. P209.
I hope you have a good time playing along to these tunes. Don’t forget you can access the mp3 for any songs you might need reminding of. And also fingers crossed, we will be including last night’s tunes on there as well. So look out for those.
In the mean time, till we meet again,
Stay safe, keep on trucking, (oh no, you can’t travel yet, scrap that)🚷🚷 keep smiling 😁😁😁😁 and keep strummin’.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 February 2021 13 54
Can I say thank you to everyone who joined us last night. Again we opened up at 7:30 for a chat, then started strumming at 8pm. We managed to introduce two new songs, with the aid of techno-man, Keith. And everyone seemed to be able to access the songs easily. We will do the same again next week, and hope to have this week’s recordings made available on the the forum, via the g-drive.
Well, that’s all for now. I’m off to read me library book about what happens to the lady, who arrived home to find her house had been sold. More next week 😄😄😄
Cheers everyone, stay safe.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 03 March 2021 12 16
What a mix of weather we are having at the moment. Yesterday was a misty to start with but then lovely sunshine allowing us to do a bit of gardening. The mower came out for the first time, this year. I hope you were able to take advantage of the sunshine.
As you might have guessed, the set list this week reflects the celebration of St. David’s Day on Monday.
We will include a couple of songs by Sir Tom, and one sung by Mary Hopkins.
Also, we will be including the two new songs from last week and also another new one we can again show on screen.
Hope you enjoy them.
A Picture Of You. P15
Back in the USSR. P27
Delilah. P51
Those Were the Days. P200
Green, Green Grass Of Home. P74
I Can Help. P85
Perfect. (On screen)
I Love To Boogie. P89
In the Country. P101
Daddy’s Gone To Knoxville. (On screen)
Piano Man (On screen)
Finally, a reminder that it’s loud shirt night tomorrow. So I can’t wait to see the pictures of leeks and red dragons on show. 😃😃😃
That’s all for now, cadw’n ddiogel, daliwch i wenu, keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 05 March 2021 18 37
Excuse the late post. Thank you to you all for joining us last night. I hope you enjoyed the songs, even the new songs we tried out. It was great to see some of you help us commemorate St. David’s Day with flags, leeks and daffodils.
Till next week. Keep safe and wishing Pete a very Happy Birthday 🎂🎂🎂
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 09 March 2021 20 32
Yes, it’s me again, a little early but, hey ho, there’s nothing on tv, cos I’ve seen the Meghan and Harry interview and that’s probably the most exciting thing at the moment.😫😫😫. Well according to the press that is!!!??!
But, onto other more important stuff.
We are once again hoping, fingers crossed, to bring you some more technical wizardry to help Thursday evening go along with a swing.
We are using the G Drive recordings to enhance the songs we are singing on Thursday. It’s an experiment, but we hope it will remind you of the times when we met together at the club. In addition, we will be using YouTube to entertain us as we play and sing along with original recordings. The chords will be shown on the screen also.
Here is the set list with indications of which songs are enhanced and which are live from our home in Coseley.
Barbara Ann. P21. G Drive
Crazy Little Thing Called Love. P44. YouTube
I’m into Something Good. P99 Live.
King of the Road. P114. Live
On the Road Again. P144. Live
Rawhide. P153. G Drive
San Francisco Bay Blues. P165. Live
Sloop John B. P169. YouTube
Streets of London. P171. Live.
The Jungle Book Medley. P188. G Drive.
World of Our Own. P221 G Drive
Wagon Wheel. P209. YouTube.
As I say, this is an experiment to see if it is feasible. Bear with us please, we might have a couple of technicals to sort out, but we hope it will be a benefit.
In the second half we will also share the new songs we have introduced, to practise them. Perfect, Knoxville, Piano Man etc. Hope that’s as clear as mud???
Thanks for your support and I look forward to seeing you all on Thursday.
Take care everyone, keep safe, keep smiling, and keep strummin. 🎵🎶🥁🎸🎤
See you Thursday.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 12 March 2021 10 03
A big thank you to everyone who joined us last night. And it was lovely to welcome Andrew, who came on-line for the first time. I hope you enjoyed it, Andrew and we will see you again soon.
It was an experimental evening as we changed the format a little, and introduced recordings from our days in the club and also play and singalongs on YouTube. I hope it was easy for you to follow. It seemed popular, particularly the G Drive recordings and we will be using them again. It was lovely to recreate the time at the club and remember just how much fun it was. Also, just how NOISY it was. 😄😄😄. Great fun, can’t wait to get back together again.
Anyway, once again thanks for your input and if you have any comments or suggestions please get in touch with myself or Keith.
Can I also thank Keith for the technical bits and bobs, we couldn’t have done it without you.
See you next week,
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 17 March 2021 12 46
Happy St. Patrick’s Day ☘️☘️☘️. And it’s a top of the ............ afternoon to you all. Hope the day is a happy one. Following the response to last week’s trial of using songs from the G Drive to remind us of happy days at the club, we will be doing the same again this week. The YouTube songs will be reserved for any new songs we will introduce. But the hustle and bustle from the club is a lovely reminder of what we miss. But it won’t be long until we can meet up again. Stay positive everyone, we are nearly there. 🤞🤞🤞.
Now down to business.
Here’s the set list for Thursday night on Zoom and for all of you practicing at home. I hope you enjoy them.
Brightside of the Road. P35 live
Forever Autumn. P69. G Drive
Girls, Girls, Girls. P73. G Drive.
Hello Mary Lou. P78 live
I Recall a Gypsy Woman. P90 live
Perfect. New book
Piano Man. New book
Riptide P155 live
Rock and Roll Medley. P158 G Drive
Ruby. P162. G Drive.
The Deadwood Stage. P185 G Drive.
As you can see I’ve included a couple of our new songs which again will be shown on screen.
Hope you enjoy them.
I had a quick message from Trevor and Juls this week. Here is one of his jokes.
Bob Marley’s wife left him and took everything, even the satellite dish.——————-
NO WOMAN NO SKY! 😢😢🤭🤭
Well it made me smile 😊
Thanks for that Trev. Look forward to seeing you as soon as possible. Even with the jokes😆😆😆
Well that’s all for now.
Keep positive, keep smiling and keep strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 March 2021 08 18
Thanks for all your conversation last night about naps and sleep and such........ It kept me awake all night!!!!!!!!
What a lovely evening, lots of fun and great music. Thank you to you all for joining us it was nice to see Will join us for the first time, hope to see you again. And for your patience with the technical problems for some of you. Apologies Julie and Scooby. I blame the staff! (didn’t mean it, Keith)
Anyway, thanks again everyone, stay safe and see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 24 March 2021 11 17
The sun is shining, the birds singing. I think Spring is on its way. We just need a little warmer weather, something like the Spring of last year will do. I don’t ask for much do I? Anyway, here is this week’s set list. Again a mixture of live sessions and G Drive recordings. Hope you enjoy them.
A Fool Such as I. G Drive. P12
All My Loving. G Drive. P23
Fings Ain’t What They Used to Be. P63
Here Comes My Baby. P79.
I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For. G Drive. P92
Perfect. New Book.
Shimmy Like My Sister Kate. New book
Leaving On A Jet Plane. P117
Maggie May. G Drive. P125
Mr. Sandman. G Drive P132
Ooh La La. P141
Space Oddity. G Drive. P170.
As usual, we have included a couple of the new songs to practise, before they are included in the main book.
Thank you to those who have suggested songs. Some of them are being worked on and will be shared with you on the Last Tuesday of the Month, which is next Tuesday, 30th March. Wow, the end of March next week. Even in lockdown the year seems to be passing by quickly. Before you know it we’ll be singing Christmas songs.😆😆😆😆😫😫😫😫
Anyway enough of this, it will be good to see you on Thursday, or if not take care of yourselves till we can meet up.
As ever, keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 March 2021 10 15
Thank you all for being with us on Zoom last night. Another good night, with a mixture of songs to enjoy. We sang a couple of the new songs and there is a further opportunity on Tuesday, to go over them again and also to share with you some other songs we are introducing. So, the last Tuesday of the Month will begin on the 30th March at 8pm on Zoom.
It will be good to see you.
Take care,
Thanks again.
Di x
P.S. Julie, I hope you got your tv working again!
Post by: Diane Dukes on 31 March 2021 10 24
A big thank you to all who contributed so much to last night’s Last Tuesday of the Month. We went through some more new songs and made alterations and decisions on what worked and what didn’t. Of course, we can really only decide when we eventually get to play as a group again, but it was very useful having suggestions and discussions. Thanks again.
And so on to Thursday.
To start with a special choice for Keith,
Crazy Little Thing Called Love. G Drive. P44
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. P50
Eight Days A Week. G Drive P57
End of the Line. P58
Freight Line. P70
Then two new ones.
I Love A Rainy Night. On screen for you
Shimmy Like My Sister Kate.
Folsom Prison Blues. P68
Hot Love. G Drive P82
Hotel California. G Drive P83
I’m Into Something Good P99
In A Shanty In Old Shanty Town. G Drive P100
Love of the Common People. P123.
Hope that fits the bill. Enjoy the sunshine today and we’ll see you tomorrow night.
Take care.
Keep on truckin, keep safe and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 April 2021 22 43
A great night tonight. Really enjoyed it. It was quite eventful, especially when we ( yes, I mean Joe) tripped the electricity with the toaster. It sure kept everyone guessing, but eventually we rejoined. And Keith breathed a sigh of relief. Anyway, thank you to you all for your patience and I hope it enjoyed the evening.
Also, Happy birthday Andy, and welcome to Ruby, Martin’s granddaughter.
Finally can I just wish you all a very Happy Easter. See you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 07 April 2021 16 05
I’m a little late with my post today, I went out this morning to collect my glasses from the opticians and forgot about it. Glad to say I can see properly now and will be keeping my eyes on you all.👀👀👀😃😃😃!
Anyway, I hope you are well and surviving the arctic blast! 🌨💨❄️🌫. Here’s hoping the temperature rises and allows us to do a little strumming outside, as a group of 6. Strummers who cannot access Zoom might appreciate the practise, although it would be nice for everyone as we have all missed it. If anyone is interested then do please contact myself or Keith and we will see what we can do. There are talks with Coseley Cricket Club about possible outdoor strums like last year, but no definite dates confirmed as yet.
In the meantime here are the songs for this week.
I’ve chosen an eclectic mix, including some of the very old favourites that haven’t been heard for some time.
Baby Face. Live P26
Black Velvet Band. Live. P30
Dirty Old Town with Ron G Drive P53
Dream a Little Dream G Drive P54
Dudley Canal Song. G Drive P56
Iko Iko Live P96
In the Summertime. Live P102
Beyond the Sea. On screen
I Love a Rainy Night. On screen
Lemon Tree. On Screen
Waterloo Sunset. Live P211
Wooden Heart G Drive P220
Stay safe everyone, we will get through this and will be playing together again in time.
Keep yourselves safe, keep positive and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 09 April 2021 08 02
An early start, and a big thank you to everyone who joined our Zoom group last night. I hope you enjoyed stepping back in time and hearing some of the older songs, recorded from the club. Listening to them brings back happy memories and we are creating more memories every day, such as welcoming our youngest member, who looked fantastic strumming Grandad Pete’s Ukulele. Another moment in time.
So we’re off to see our grandchildren now, 🚙 so see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 14 April 2021 08 53
What a lovely start to the day. The sun is shining and it looks like it’s here for the day. So we have arranged a
“strum with six” event this afternoon in our garden. It will be nice to catch up with friends who cannot join us on Thursday nights. If anyone would like to come along on the next available day, weather permitting, then let us know.
So that’s our afternoon sorted, hope you are able to get out and about more with the loosening of the lockdown strings. I still have two weeks to wait for a hair appointment, but I managed a swim yesterday. 🏊♀️🏊♀️ Wonderful to be back. Just can’t get another booking until next week, though.
Still, here’s what we have for this week’s set list. Again a mix of live, G Drive and new songs. Hope you enjoy them.
All I have to do is Dream. P22 G Drive
Bright Side of the Road. P33 Live
Bye Bye Love. P40 G Drive.
Can’t Take My Eyes Of You. P42 G Drive.
Fisherman’s Blues. P64 Live
Folsom Prison Blues. P68 Live
I Can See Clearly Now. P86 G Drive
I’ll Never Find Another You. P 97 G Drive.
Then from the new book
Beautiful Noise
Beyond the Sea in C
Fields of Gold
Finishing off with,
Pearly Shells P146 G Drive.
Look forward to seeing you on Thursday, or if not, perhaps a strum in the sunshine 🌞.
Enjoy yourselves, keep safe, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Tarra for now.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 April 2021 19 56
Just to say thank you for being with us last night. Despite the few technical problems, we had a lot of fun and some laughs. As mentioned, we are hoping to have a “strum for six”, in Keith’s garden on Wednesday, weather permitting, and if you are interested please get in touch with myself or Keith and we will create a rota. For those people at work, would you prefer a weekend? Again, let us know if you would like to take part in live music again. It’s worth it.
So, thank you everyone, stay safe and see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 20 April 2021 10 32
I know, I’m a day early, but I’m trying to get ahead a little.
We have been working hard to rectify the technical problems we had last week. We tried again but eventually rejected the brand new mixer we bought last week and have sent it back, and tried another. This one, (a good old Peavey) we have sound checked and will do the job. 🤞🤞🤞
On Friday it is St. George’s Day, 🏴🏴🏴🏴 so all of the choices are either English songs or artists. And in most cases, both. Hope you enjoy them.
We will again be having a “strum for six” in Keith’s garden on Wednesday of this week.
If anyone would like another day next week, let us know and we will see what day is suitable. The weather is kind to us at the moment so we should take advantage of it while we can.
So, on to the set list.
A Grand and Healthy Life. P13. Live
A Picture Of You. P15. Live
Blame It On Me. P31 G Drive
Everything Stops For Tea. P61 G Drive
It Must Be Love. P104 G Drive
Love Is All Around. P122 G Drive
Maxwell Silver Hammer. P128. Live
Mr. Blue Sky. P135 G Drive
Oom Pah Pah. P145 Live
Penny Lane P148 G Drive
Streets of London. P171 Live
The Blackpool Belle. P183 Live
Fields of Gold ( on screen) with Sting.
Perfect. ( on screen) with me! Live, (just about) 😁😁😁😁😁
I do hope to see you all on Thursday. As it’s St. George’s Day 🏴🏴🏴🏴 we will be suitably attired in red and white. Look forward to seeing how you celebrate the event.
In the meantime,
Keep thinking happy thoughts, keep on truckin, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 April 2021 06 42
Happy St. George’s Day! 🏴🏴🏴. What a colourful bunch we were last night, displaying our red and white in glorious array. So many people had made the effort, with flags blowing in the breeze, (that must have been draughty) and red and white clothing of all descriptions. Thanks to all who made the effort. Especially those who were cajoled into getting changed. 👏👏👏👏👏👏. It was much appreciated, and added to the fun. I don’t suppose anyone took a screenshot? No nor me neither. I must appoint somebody as official photographer for these things. As It’s something I don’t think of at the time. Any volunteers? 🙋♀️🙋♂️🤳🤳📷📸.
As a reminder, we have a ‘six for a strum’ this afternoon in Keith’s garden, and there are spaces available at the moment. But get in quick as first come, first served as they say. There are plans for another garden get together next Wednesday, if the weather behaves itself. Again, let us know if you are interested.
And finally, next Tuesday is the last Tuesday of the Month. We are having another Zoom meeting on Tuesday, to “thrash out” the new songs so far, and perhaps one or two, (cough, cough) more to freshen up the repertoire. If you can join us on Tuesday, let myself or Keith know and we will send you the invitation and advise you on what songs we intend to do.
Well, that’s all for now. A busy week coming up. But worth it when we have such lovely people to share the music with.
Take care everyone, see you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 April 2021 17 55
Excuse the late post today. 💇♀️💇♀️💇♀️ We had a Last Tuesday of the Month evening and thanks to all who contributed to our new songs. We managed to tidy up a couple of songs which I am including in the set list. Hope you enjoy them.
Buddy Holly Medley. P37
Enjoy Yourself. P59
Ghost Riders. P72
Hold the Line. P81
Iko Iko. P96
Jamaica Farewell. P109
King of the Road. P114
Lying Eyes. P124
Meet Me On The Corner. P130
Nowhere Man. P138
Rock and Roll Medley. P158 G Drive
Singing the Blues. P168
Then, the new songs, which will be scrolled on screen for you.
Beyond the Sea.
Out of Time
Good Riddance ( Time Of Your Life)
Just one more piece of news. As it’s Bank Holiday on Monday, Keith, Joe and myself are taking a short break from Zoom and therefore we will not be holding a SUS session next week, 6th May. Which is voting day, by the way.
But we will be back on Zoom on the 13th May. Hope you can join us then.
Well, that’s all for now.
Take care of yourselves. Keep on voting, keep singing and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 April 2021 09 16
We are taking a break for a week, so our next Zoom meeting will be on 13th May. In the meantime, enjoy the Bank Holiday weekend and we will see you in two weeks.
Take care all, and see you on the 13th.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 12 May 2021 17 36
Hope you are all well and didn’t miss us too much last week. We had a complete break, well almost, from Ukulele business and enjoyed a couple of days out including a trip out to Bridgnorth and our first pint in a pub tent. We went for a meal at the Horse and Jockey In Sedgley with Keith and Lynn last Thursday too, so it was a lovely week off. I hope you enjoyed the break. This week however, the dreaded hay fever has hit us hard, so let’s keep fingers crossed that the voice holds out. I will be using the G Drive for some songs to preserve the voice.
The songs for this week are as follows
Burning Bridges. P38
End of the Line. P58
Five Foot Two. G Drive. Listen to the tempo! P65
Hey Good Lookin’ P80
I Walk the Line. P93
It’s Only a Paper Moon. G Drive P107
Obladi Oblada G Drive. P139
Under the Moon of Love. G Drive P206
With A Little Help From My Friends. G Drive P
Then from the new book
Beyond the Sea
Shotgun
Out of Time.
I look forward to seeing you all Thursday night. And there will be news about the Sunday Strum which will start, following Boris’s next announcement. More details to follow.
In the meantime, keep coughing, no sorry, keep smiling, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 14 May 2021 09 33
Short and sweet, I think that sums up last night. I do hope you enjoyed the selection of songs. Thank you for joining us and thanks to Keith for enabling us to hear the songs. With a bit of luck we should be back to full strength next week.
Also, a reminder to look out for the email from Keith, inviting you to Coseley Cricket Club on the 23rd May at 2pm for an outdoor strum. As you know numbers will be restricted to 20 strummers to allow the Cricket Club to have their own customers. As mentioned, it will be first come, first served. It will be lovely to see you and fingers crossed the weather will be kind.
Thanks again and see you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 May 2021 19 43
Bit of a late post today. We’ve had a very busy day, tidying up the 2020 Songbook in order to get it right for the new songs to go into. It’s a bit of a task, but it gave Joe, Keith and myself a chance to meet and work together. Just think, this time last year we were doing the same thing but in lockdown. At least we can meet now.
We still have plans to have a Strum together at Coseley Cricket Club this Sunday. There is a limit on numbers so please reply to the invite that Keith will send out and we will try our best to accommodate as many as we can. It starts at 2pm. Fingers crossed that the weather is kind. If we do have to cancel we will contact you on Saturday night.
So, on to the Set List for Thursday.
A mixture of G Drive and live songs again. Hope you enjoy them.
Black Velvet Band. G Drive. P30
Bye Bye Love. P40
Country Roads. P43
Even the Bad Times Are Good. G Drive. P60.
Girls Girls Girls. G Drive. P73
I’m into Something Good. P99
King of the Road. P114
Maxwells Silver Hammer. P128
Morningtown Ride. P134
On the Road Again. P144
Riptide. P155
Then from the new book
Daddy’s Gone to Knoxville
Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)
Count On Me.
I do hope you can join us on Zoom on Thursday. Again, we will open up the “chat room” from 7:30 onwards, but begin strumming from 8pm. I look forward to seeing you all then.
Take care, everyone. Keep the faith, keep smiling, and keep on strummin. .
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 21 May 2021 10 49
Lovely to see everyone last night. It was a jolly evening with lots of happy banter. Can we say welcome to Susan who joined us for the first time. It’s great that you could join us, and we hope the advice we gave you encourages you further, and you are able to join us next week.
As I said last night, the weather doesn’t look very promising for a meet up on Sunday, but we will let you know on Saturday. But if you need another burst of playing, we will be doing a Zoom session for the last Tuesday of the month on 25th May. As you know, this is to go over new songs and an invitation will be issued beforehand. Please let us know if you would like the new songs before Tuesday.
Well, I think that’s all for now. Thanks again for your company and can’t wait to do it all again next week.
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 May 2021 21 59
Hope you’re all enjoying Eurovision. I’ve spotted one song featuring the ukulele, so you never know. Maybe, next years entry could feature the Sedgley Strummers!! Anyway. Unfortunately, the weather for tomorrow is looking very dodgy. Cold, windy and some rain so I’m afraid our plans will have to be postponed for this week. But, see you on Thursday.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 May 2021 08 51
I was reminded by Mr. Shiels last night that we also have a Zoom session on Tuesday, which I had forgotten. He claims it was my age that made me forgetful. I think It’s the shock of last night’s Eurovision and seeing poor Orville draped around that singer’s shoulders. The image will stay with me for......................seconds.🤭🤣🤣
Seriously though, yes we will meet on Tuesday.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 May 2021 09 29
Hope this post finds you fit and well. Last night a few of us tried out the last of the new songs that will be going in the new book. They were well received, on the whole. But, Now we have reached the peak and there will be no other new songs. We just need to practice them. Phew! That’s a relief to everyone. So thanks to all who once again supported us with suggestions, comments and general good humour throughout the evening. Even when the technology failed, everyone was still there when we got back on line. 🤭😱😱😱🤬
Now let’s give you Thursday’s set list. We are starting with an old, old favourite, chosen especially to help our newest member.
Pete, you might want to crack out the harmonica!
Here goes.
Dirty Old Town. P53
Folsom Prison Blues. P68
Happy Together. P76
Hello Mary Lou. P78
I Love To Boogie. P89
Jackson. P108
Jungle Book Medley. G Drive P.112
Oh La La. P141
Roaring Twenties Medley. P157
Ruby. P162
Then from the new book
Perfect
Fields of Gold
Green Door
Don’t Worry Be Happy.
Well, I think that’s all for now. The future is looking brighter, as is the weather. If we can arrange an outdoor strum we will, but our weekends are a bit busy with family reunions at the moment.
There are no plans either, at the moment to go back to the club until a full go ahead by the government, concerning
singing indoors. I know there is a large campaign to allow groups of more than six to meet to sing, but no news on that so far, and until then we will continue to make do with Zoom.
Well, I think that IS it now. Thanks again for your support and see you on Thursday.
Till then, keep safe, keep right on to the end of the road, and keep strummin!
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 May 2021 07 24
Hope you enjoyed last night’s Zoom night. Thanks to Pete and “Our Monica” for his intro for Dirty Old Town.
And to Keith and Joe for coping with the bombshells I threw in for effect.😨😨😨
Thanks for joining us and we will see you again next week, when it is loud shirt night on Thursday. See you then.
Enjoy the Bank Holiday, don’t forget your sun tan lotion, and brollies and wellies. 😄😄
Bye for now.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 02 June 2021 09 04
And what a beautiful morning it is. We have had a few lovely days recently. Let’s hope it continues until Sunday as we are finally, having a strum at the Cricket Club this Sunday 6th June. Keith will be sending out the details as an invitation as usual. Please reply as we can then monitor numbers. First come, first served as they say. The same rules will apply as before with track and trace details etc. Can’t wait.
So, onto Thursday’s set list.
Again a mix of songs old and new, with G Drives to help out.
Bad Moon Rising. P28
Crazy Little Thing Called Love. G Drive. P44.
End of the Line. P58
From a Jack to a King. P71
I Recall a Gypsy Woman. P90
I Will Survive. G Drive. P95
Itchycoo Park. G Drive P105
King of the Road. P114
Love Is All Around. P123
Obladi Oblada. P139
Rock and Roll Medley. P158
San Francisco Bay Blues. P165
Piano Man
Beyond the Sea.
Hope to see you all Thursday. Enjoy the sunshine.
Keep safe, keep cool 😎 ☀️☀️ and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 June 2021 11 01
Coseley Cricket Club
30 Church Road
Coseley, Bilston
WV14 8AN
Hope this helps.
Thanks again and see you on Sunday at Coseley CC or if not next Thursday on Zoom.
Take care all,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 06 June 2021 12 40
Couldn’t believe my eyes when we saw the rain this morning. Unfortunately, although it has stopped for a while, the grass is very wet and the weather won’t be as pleasant as it was yesterday, therefore we have decided to cancel today’s strum. Sorry, but maybe next time.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 09 June 2021 09 07
And a beautiful morning it is too. Looks like it’s going to stay this way for awhile. Apart from the odd short downpour of course.☂️☔️💦. Still, mustn’t grumble. But of courseI will.!!!
Anyway, lots to look forward to with start of the European Championships this week, so at least one person in this house is excited.🙋♂️ Whilst others will be finding something else to do 🙋♀️.
The first England match is on Sunday, so unfortunately we cannot go to the Cricket Club as it will be full. We have an alternative idea, but how many are interested? Let us know if you would like a strum together on Sunday and maybe we can work something out.
Anyway, on to the set list for Thursday on Zoom.
A Grand and Healthy Life. P13
Bright side of the Road. P35
Crazy Little Thing Called Love. G Drive P44
Even the Bad Times Are Good. P60
Fings Ain’t What They Used To Be. P63
Folsom Prison Blues. P68
I Walk the Line. P93
Itchycoo Park. G Drive P105
Leaning On a Lamp G Drive P116
Rawhide G Drive P153
Tickle My Heart. P201
When I’m 64. P216
Perfect
Weather With You.
We think we have sorted the feedback problem on the G Drive. And guess what? It means using another piece of kit.😄😄😄.
There won’t be room for us soon. 😄
Still it’s all worth it,
So long as it
Keeps us safe, keeps us happy and keeps us strummin.
See you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 13 June 2021 18 17
And what a lovely afternoon it was. A group of 16 strummers all together in the sunshine. What a pleasure it was to meet up in the flesh, so to speak.i do hope you enjoyed your afternoon and let’s keep hoping we can do it again sometime soon.
Take care all and see you again soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 16 June 2021 19 34
Very late with the post, so I’m copying Keith’s email for today. So here goes.
Hi Everyone,
A mixture of G Drive and live songs again. Hope you enjoy them.
500 Miles. P11
A Picture Of You. P15
Act Naturally. P17
Buddy Holly Medley. P37
Crystal Chandeliers. G Drive P46
Dedicated Follower of Fashion. P50
Eight Days a Week. G Drive. P57
Enjoy Yourself. P59
Hey Good Looking. P80
Island in the Sun. P103
And scrolling on screen:
Lemon Tree.
Fields of Gold.
Green Door.
Walk of Life.
Hopefully, if the weather is OK next Sunday afternoon, we're intending to do an outdoor a Sunday Strum at Coseley cricket club.
Starting at 2pm. Can you please RSVP if you can make it so we can just keep a check on the numbers. First come first served basis maximum is 30 strummers, we will be doing track and trace. The Club house will be open for drinks and toilet facilities. Drinks will be served at your chair.
I will confirm Sunday Strum later in the week, when we can better judge the weather.
Cheers, Keith
Keep your fingers crossed, keep in the shade and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 18 June 2021 09 53
What a great night. It was lovely to once again, be able to play as a small group. And I hope the experience was as enjoyable for you too. Thanks to Keith and Lynn for their hospitality. We hope to do it again next week.
On Sunday, the planned strum at the Cricket Club is looking doubtful, as the weather forecast is for heavy rain. We will make a final decision tomorrow, and let you know by email. Once again, keep your fingers crossed.
So, I hope to see you on Sunday, or if not then on-Line next Thursday.
See you then.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 19 June 2021 18 42
Sorry to say we won’t be meeting up for a strum tomorrow. The weather is unreliable. I do hope we can meet up again soon.
Take care
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 22 June 2021 20 49
Hope you are all keeping well, and looking forward to freedom day as they call it. It’s getting closer. I hope Boris keeps his word and releases us on 19th July, if not before. In the meantime, we will continue to meet on Zoom and you neverknow, the weather might be ok on Sunday. Sssshhhhhh. I’m not tempting fate by inviting you to you know where on Sunday, cos the weather Gods are listening and they might scupper it for us. But, There is a change to the original plans and that’s the time. Keith will send out the invitations closer to the date.
Onto the set list for Thursday.
Burning Bridges P38
Iko Iko. P96
Jolene. G Drive. P111
Love of the Common People. P123
Riptide. P155
Teach Your Children. P180
The Boxer P184
The Deadwood Stage. G Drive. P185
Wagon Wheel. P209
Karma Chameleon. P113
Under the Moon of Live. P206
From the new book
Lemon Tree
I Love A Rainy Night.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy.
Look forward to seeing you on Thursday, or Sunday if possible.
I might go and watch some football with the boss. Come on England! 🏴🏴 In the mean time.
Keep out the ‘oss Road, keep smiling, and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 25 June 2021 08 31
What a great time we had last night. Very exciting being in the Sedgley Studio. Thanks to Terry and especially Keith and Lynn, for their hospitality. Great news about our first proper gig booked for August. It is on the forum, so if you can play, then please do put your name down. Here’s to many more gigs, and the next phase in the life of Sedgley Ukulele Strummers. More news to follow.
Take care, hope the weathers good for Sunday and Tuesday, and keep your eyes 👀 open for updates by email.
See you soon,
Di x
Post by: guest29 on 25 June 2021 23 29
Although I’m firmly convinced that Keith, Joe and Di have explored every possible avenue in the quest to locate a suitable venue for our practice sessions, I do wonder if it is really necessary for us to commit to a weekly subscription. With an average attendance of around 25 to 30 members this would be a collection of £50 to £60 each week —— and who is going to collect, record and be responsible for such money. When we formed we said that we didn’t want anyone having to do paperwork or treasurer activities.
Most venues willingly pay to provide entertainment for the pleasure of their customers. A practice session (including mistakes and banter) could be instrumental, (no pun intended), in bringing in more customers to these venues —— and they know it.
Maybe arrangements could be negotiated with the landlords of these venues for us to provide the musical entertainment one day in the week in return for free use of the room. Whilst this may not be feasible during periods of social distancing, pubs and clubs will shortly be returning to full usage. For several years this arrangement has worked well for the Sedgley Conservative Club, even to the extent of them advertising our presence in local publications.
When we do a gig and provide entertainment at outside venues, care homes, churches, festivals etc. we make a charge for doing so. If we now reverse the system —— in exchange for the space to practice, we would be providing them with FREE entertainment.
We provide professional? entertainment —— Let us not undersell ourselves!
Can anyone think of any venue that would like to attract more customers??
Post by: Keith on 26 June 2021 13 56
Since 2015 when I took over some responsibilities for the SUS club it became apparent to me that we needed a treasurer. This was to provide transparency for the money we received for gigs and donations and then our donations made to worthy charities and the running costs of the SUS club.
I initially took on that role and then came Rew. We now have Joe as our treasurer, a post which he has kindly held for the last 2 years.
Joe has willingly agreed to collect the subs money every week from the strummers and pay the room charge from it.
The £2 per week is in line with the charge that other Ukulele groups make in this local area.
I do not agree with your figures of 25-30 average numbers each week it is less. Any excess money will be used to support the charge when fewer members attend our sessions on a Thursday due to holidays etc.
The decision to move venue has not been taken lightly. We have listened to the needs of our club members. Health, and wellbeing have been a major factor.
The room we are hiring is for our sole use for that evening, unlike the Conservative club room.
We have negotiated a deal with the WMC whereby if we do a concert at the Working Mens Club we will get the gate money.
Firmly, I do not believe that we are under selling Sedgley Ukulele Strummers in any way.
This move will allow us to expand our membership, if it becomes apparent that the £2 charge is consistently too much we can always lower it.
We did consider several other venues, there were various reasons why we discounted them.
Cheers, Keith
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 June 2021 09 31
Thank you to the small but appreciated group who came to the Coseley Cricket Club, yesterday. It made such a difference being able to play as a live group again. It should be like that on Thursday too, so I hope you can be at the Sedgley Working Men’s Club, starting at 7:30. See you there.
Till then, take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 01 July 2021 08 49
Just a quick reminder that there will not be a Zoom session tonight. But we can’t wait to see you live at our new venue,for Thursday nights at the Sedgley Working Men’s Club. Details were sent via email this week. Hope to see you there.
So for the last time. Keep well, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x👩🎓
Post by: Diane Dukes on 13 July 2021 09 06
Yes, it’s me. You thought you’d the last of me on here, but I wondered if, while we get used to some of the new songs and strumming together again, it might be useful to keep the set list idea, for you to have a look at before we meet on Thursdays. So here are this week’s selection. A reminder that the page numbers are from the NEW SONG BOOK that is available to download from the forum.
Alexander’s Ragtime Band. P18
Beyond the Sea. P29
Daddy’s Gone to Knoxville. P48
Fings Ain’t What They Used to Be. P67
Freight Train. P74
In the Country. P111
Little Things Mean a Lot. P133
Meet Me On The Corner. P142
The Night Has a Thousand Eyes. P211
Another reminder is that we have a gig booked for next month. At Maywood, where we have played before. If anyone would like to put there names down to play, again look on the forum, or speak to myself or Keith. Thanks all.
See you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 21 July 2021 09 57
Well it’s a bit SCOCHIO ☀️☀️☀️😓😓 isn’t it? Hope you’re all managing to stay cool 😎😎😎 In this glorious weather. We arranged to have a last minute strum in the garden last Sunday. The Cricket Club wasn’t available so we improvised and met on our back lawn. A lovely group of strummers joined us and it was a nice way to spend a couple of hours.
Tomorrow night will be Club night at the Sedgley Working Men’s Club so thats’ another opportunity to play along together and SING! Yes folks it’s official. Choirs and singing groups can now meet indoors and sing altogether. The powers that be are allowing us so bring your best singing voices on Thursday and let rip!
On a similar theme.
If anyone is interested the choir I belong to Dudley Choral Society have a Come and Sing Day on Saturday 24th July at James’ Church Dudley, where we rehearse during the afternoon, enjoy a delicious tea, then give a small concert to family and friends at around 5pm. If anyone is interested, please contact me for details of music, etc. Everyone is welcome.
Oh well, I digress. Let’s move on to the set list.
An old favourite to start with.
Bad Moon Rising. P 26
Bright side of the Road. P35
Burning Bridges. P38
Folsom Prison Blues. P73
Last Thing on My Mind. P126
Rolling in My Sweet Baby’s Arms.. p161
Take It Easy. P200
The Wild Rover. P214
Wagon Wheel. P229
Waterloo Sunset. P232.
DONT FORGET THESE PAGE NUMBERS ARE FOR THE NEW BOOK!
Hope to see you all there on Thursday. And we are arranging a Last Tuesday of the Month next Tuesday. More details to follow.
Well that’s all for now, take care everyone and see you soon.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 23 July 2021 08 37
Thank you to all who braved the heat and came to the SUS night at the Working Men’s Club last night. It was lovely to have Terry back from his holidays and he proved he hadn’t lost his touch. He “played a blinder,” as they say, especially with the last song “Ruby.” Looking forward to doing it all again next week.
There is also a chance to go over new songs on Tuesday 3rd August. Come and join us then for our First Tuesday of the Month.
Have a good week everyone, and see you next Thursday.
Stay safe.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 26 July 2021 12 26
Hope you have all stayed cool during this time. I wanted to let you all know about our plans concerning the “Last Tuesday of the Month”. We unfortunately cannot have the Tuesday night, therefore, we have booked the room for Monday 2nd August starting at 7:30. There will be no charge to strummers for this.
I do hope you can make it on the 2nd. Would you please let us know in the usual way if you can.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Take care all.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 28 July 2021 16 53
Well, what a mix of weather. I hope you are dodging the heavy rain showers. We will be meeting again on Thursday evening and looking forward to seeing you there. Here is the set list for the first half. I’ve included some of the newer versions for us to look at together.
Country Roads. P43
Hotel California. P93
I Can Help. P95
I Love a Rainy Night. P99
It’s Only a Paper Moon. P117
I’ll Never Find Another You. P119
Jolene. P123
Lemon Tree. P129
Listen To Me. P132
Love Is All Around. P134
Moon River. P145.
Have a good day and we will see you tomorrow.
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 30 July 2021 10 27
There’s a lot to say in today’s post. First of all, thanks to everyone who came to last night’s meeting. It was well attended again and lovely to welcome two new members, Terry and Mark, who quickly got into the swing of things. We look forward to see you again.
As many of you already know, we are moving to a new venue next week. Lanesfield British Legion Club, is not too far away and will make us very welcome.
We will not be able to have our planned “Last Tuesday of the Month”. It’s is a shame as I know a few of us want to really start working through some of the new arrangements in the songbook. But I do hope you agree that we made a wonderful start to some of them last night.
So, finally, next week, we will be meeting at our new venue, usual time, 7:30 start, and we will make a beautiful splash of colour to our debut as it is LOUD SHIRT NIGHT TOO!
Can’t wait to see you all.
Take care of yourselves, and each other, and we will see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 04 August 2021 10 33
A beautiful morning it is too. Hope it finds you fit and well. As mentioned last week, we will be meeting at the
Lanesfield British Legion Club. And as it is Loud Shirt Night we should bring a splash of colour so dust off your brightest dresses, Hawaiian shirts and blouses - for the gents, the ladies can come as normal 😃😃😃😃
The choice of music in the first half reflects a mixture of old favourites and a couple of new songs. We are having a few enquiries about gigs and need to put together tunes that we know will go down well, and given how little time we have spent playing together, we can play well too. So I hope the choice meets your approval.
Alexander’s Ragtime Band. P. 18
Daddy’s Gone to Knoxville. P48
Dirty Old Town. P55
Freight Train. P74
Green Door. P81
Happy Together. P84
Hold the Line. P91
I Love to Boogie. P100
Jolene. P123
King of the Road. P125
Maxwells Silver Hammer. P140
Meet Me On The Corner. P142
On the Road Again. P156
Rock and Roll Medley at the end of the evening.
I gather we may have customers to listen to us at the British Legion, so that will bring back memories of playing to a live audience.
You should all have received an email with the address of the new venue from Keith, if there are any questions, then please get in touch with myself or Keith.
See you all at the Legion!
Take care,
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 06 August 2021 10 23
Have you recovered from the buz from last night? I don’t know about you but we enjoyed the evening so much. Our new venue was practically perfect, a community feeling, singing and playing together, and lots of positive comments, both from yourselves and from the locals who appreciated our playing and singing. It was lovely to see our new members returning and also to see Martin “ in the flesh” too.
Just a reminder that we have gigs booked for this year, including the Sedgley Beer Festival on Saturday 18th September. It is obviously a very popular event and we already have a lot of interest. But if anyone would like to put their name down, please let me or Keith know as soon as possible.
That’s all for now.
Take care everyone and we will see you next week.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 11 August 2021 14 31
Another week rolls by, can you believe we are already nearly half way through August? Incredible how quickly time is flashing by. We have settled in nicely at the Lanesfiels British Legion. I do hope you feel comfortable there.
The set list for this week is as follows.
A Picture Of You. P13
Beyond the Sea. P29
Crazy Little Thing Called Love. P45
End of the Line. P61
Friday I’m in Love. P75
Green Door. P81
Have You Ever Seen the Rain? P85
Here Comes My Baby. P87
I Walk the Line. P105
It’s Only a Paper Moon. P117
Obladi Oblada. P151
Perfect. P162
Puttin on the Style. P168
Summer Holiday. P193
These Boots Are Made For Walking. P218
Looking forward to seeing you there.
Take care.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 25 August 2021 09 06
Yes, we are back after our typical British family holiday. It didn’t rain EVERY day. ☂️ But, it was lovely visiting new places and of course being with the children and grandchildren.
I must thank Keith and Terry for leading last week. I’m sure they did a great job.
On to this week and we are preparing for our first live gig in 17 months. Our friends a Maywood Have asked us to perform for them. An outdoors gig, and with fish and chips in the interval, it will be like old times. The set list for this gig will be sent out soon.
We have also had a booking for another gig at Cherry Tree Court, in September. We have played for them before too. More details for that gig are on the forum.
Talking of which, please feel free to use the forum to communicate with the strummers. It has lots of potential uses and doesn’t seem to be used very much at the moment. We are in the process of updating both the forum and the website. It all takes time, but if you have any posts, or particularly any photos, that can be included. No, not those kind of photos, Ray, then please pass them on to us digitally. Thanks.
Thursday night we will be at the Lanesfield British Legion, and although we can’t do fish and chips, there will be cheese and onion and ham and tomato cobs.
The set list will include a few of the new songs as well as a couple of songs to commemorate the sad news about Don Everley and Charlie Watts R.I.P.
A Picture Of You. P13
Amarillo. P22
Blame it on Me. P31
Bye Bye Love. P40
Country Roads. P43
Don’t Worry, Be Happy. P56
End of the Line. P61
Iko Iko. P109
Out of Time. P158
The Blackpool Belle. P204
The Night Has 1000 Eyes. P211
The Young Ones. P215
There’s a Kind Of Hush. P217
Tickle My Heart. P222
Under the Boardwalk. P225.
I hope you enjoy the choice of songs.
See you Thursday.
Finally, just want to wish a speedy recovery to Martin. Get well soon, Martin.
Take care of yourselves, keep smiling and keep strummin.
Di x
Post by: Diane Dukes on 27 August 2021 09 55
I hope you enjoyed last night’s meeting. I did. It was a lot of fun. The Knights of the Round Table loved the Fisherman’s Blues. And loved being included in the evening’s entertainment. I’m assured they will be back next week.
So a busy week coming up, with our first gig on Saturday, and the Last Tuesday of the Month meeting. You should have all received information about that from Keith. I hope you can join us then. If not, have a good week, it is Bank Holiday weekend so make the most of the holiday. As the song goes, Enjoy Yourself.
See you next Thursday. If not before.
Take care, everyone.
Di x
Post by: graham on 03 October 2021 10 09
So soon we'll be "On The Road Again" Till then " I'll see you in my Dreams"
Best Wishes Graham
Post by: Keith on 04 October 2021 17 13
Hope you're feeling better, it'll be good to see you back at the club when your able. We've kept a seat for you in the naughty corner ;D ;D ;D
Cheers, Keith