Owen Clayton

Video

Oral History Information

Interview Date
Job Title
Musician, Bassist

Owen Clayton began playing the double bass while in school. At the time, he had to stand on a box to play, but he didn’t mind at all because he enjoyed the sound of the instrument and it’s role the band. In 1951, when Owen was just 14, he was playing for local dance halls in and around Liverpool, England. Owen began recording with local bands and can be heard on the popular (now historic) Skiffle classic, “The Last Train to San Fernando.” In 1962, he played on the same bill as a new group called the Silver Beatles. Owen was featured in the Syndicate, led by Steve Bennett and a popular Liverpool Rockabilly Band. All throughout his career he has played the same Russian made double bass that has been in his family for over 110 years.