LongMan Records was created back in 1994 by renowned concert guitarist, multi instrumentalist, composer and producer Richard Durrant as a vehicle for his own releases and other artists he produces at his studio on Shoreham Beach, near Brighton. The name comes from the mysterious chalk figure carved into the Sussex Downs, beneath which Richard grew up in the 12th century Benedictine Priory of Wilmington. The label is now much loved, vibrant community of musicians, artists, poets and friends who's products can be heard worldwide.
Among the label's roster is the mighty Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain, whose album 'The Secret Of Life' is a unique collision of post-punk performance and toe-tapping oldies reinterpreted on Ukulele's. The band have been selling out shows all over the world and appearing on many TV shows and radio stations, most notably BBC's Jool's Holland's Hootenany, Blue Peter, Radio 1 and Johnny Walker's show on BBC Radio 2. The NME said 'Most people have to die before they become immortal. The ukulele superstars have no such worries.'
Another artist on the label is legendary busker and one-man band Don Partridge, who rose to fame in the late sixties with his chart hit single 'Rosie' and became a household name. However, Don was too unconventional even for the music business and abandoned stardom for a life on the road. After more than thirty years of travelling, kept alive by busking and selling books of poetry, Don Partridge agreed to record a selection of his songs for Longman Records. The album 'The Highwayman' is eleven songs which allow us a glimpse into the life of this remarkable man who is surely the undisputed 'King of the Buskers'. If you're lucky you may still catch Don busking in town near you, he recently appeared as a guest on tours with Lemon Jelly and British Sea Power.
More recent artists on the label include Simon Stewart, who's track 'Oh My Love' from the album 'Across The Land' was recently voted number 2 in Mojo magazine's readers charts, Jack Cryer daughter of comedian Barry Cryer with her lushly produced soulful pop debut 'The Way I Feel', Mike Read and David Hamilton favourites 'Ungagged', young flautist Phillipe Barnes and many other widely talented artists. Here you can hear a selection of their music and be kept up to date with their news, gigs and releases.
Buy Longman Records 'A SCATTERING OF SNOW' sampler featuring Richard Durrant, Jack Cryer, Don Partridge, The Ukulele Orchestra and more for just £2.35 including P&P
