Since finding an old Jedson guitar in the loft around 7 years ago, Jack Blackman set about meeting a challenge set by his dad. “Learn ten chords properly and I’ll buy you a decent one!” A few days and ten chords later he was totally hooked, especially to playing the blues. In 2006, Jack passed his grade 8 guitar exam and was successful in auditioning a place as a founder member of Warwickshire’s County Music Service Rock Band, Red Kyte. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- In 2008, Jack successfully applied for a BBC instrumental bursary, and this money paid for his American 1952 Reissue Fender Telecaster guitar. However, Jack’s musical career began when, on March 12 2008 (his 14th birthday), Paul Jones phoned, in response to a letter from Jack’s dad. He invited Jack to do a number sitting in with the Blues Band at Cox’s Yard in Stratford. After a jaw dropping intro towards the end of their first set: “I recorded this song in 1966 with Eric Clapton, so no pressure Jack!” The band launched into the Otis Rush number “I Want to Know”, with Jack as guest. He took a solo and the audience cheered loudly. Jack stayed on for a further 6 numbers.
