I grew up living round the corner from Will, was fascinated as a kid listening to his stories of him dancing with the stars. He had so much energy even as an older man. R.I.P Will!
That backward track of nearly two minutes, with byplay among several extras, is impressive. The producing company was ATV, headed by Val Parnell and Lew Grade, who put showbiz pizzazz into British light entertainment. Val's nephew Jack Parnell, a jazz drummer, led the band and the cameras were probably directed by Dicky Leeman. Good backup for Mr Gaines, who at 37 shows it's not only the brothers Berry nd Nicholas who can get off their knees without using their hands.
I remember joining in a jam session with Andy Hamilton's band in the late 80s/early 90s. I turned up to jam with the band and Will Gains was there. He tapped out to the musicians individually at one point and was very 'generous' when my turn came to solo on my bongos, as I was way below his and the band's calibre and nerves were on edge. But what an experience. RIP Will Gains, bless.
Met Will on many occasions in Rotherham as he was a good friend of my brother.....gosh.... that must be 40 years ago now....he was a wonderful man and an amazing character....God bless him xxx
He used to work with my Dad and they were mates. He went to the American Embassy in London and picked up out Life-Visas for us to get into America. This was in '81 during the Passport Office strike. I was sixteen then, and we were allowed - after a while - to go in on a Visitor's Passport. I still had the Visa stamped in it. Then he moved as his chosen career picked up again.
Will Gaines settled in Leigh On Sea, Essex during his last years. This was when I first time I saw him dance, and he still had incredible energy for an elderly man. Please search for my own video 'Will Gaines ZOLTANS The Smack Old Leigh Essex' . I filmed it in December 2010. RIP Will Gaines.
Have just discovered that Will Gaines was 20 years younger than the ads said when I saw him! He looked the age the listings mag claimed for him and he wasn't as athletic as here but still brilliant.
saw mr gaines perform a few times in london in the late 1980s, usually with slim gaillard - i enjoyed it then, but now understand how privileged i was!
oh - i meant to add as well that it was great to see the old bbc television centre there, now also gone - i worked there in the late 80s - early 90s. thanks for posting this, and bringing back these memories!
