Neville Dickie

Neville Dickie is one England's foremost stride and boogie-woogie pianists. A regular performer on BBC Radio, Dickie has made hundreds of appearances as a soloist or with his trio. One of the few British jazz pianists to score with a hit single -- "The Robins Return" in 1969 -- Dickie has continued to be embraced by British jazz enthusiasts. His 1975 album, Back to Boogie, sold more than 100,000 copies. A native of England's County Durham, Dickie spent years playing piano in working men's clubs. After serving a stint in the Royal Air Force, he relocated to London, where he continued to plow his field in the city's pubs. Auditioned by the BBC, Dickie attracted the attention of Doreen Davies, the head of BBC radio 2. With Davies' support, he became one of BBC Radio's leading artists. Dickie remains active, performing in the London area with his trio and with a band, the Rhythmakers, that he formed in 1985. ~ Craig Harris, All Music Guide