Thunderclap Newman - Hollywood Dream
On this week's episode, we discuss the 1970 album by Thunderclap Newman: Hollywood Dream.
Thunderclap Newman were comprised of Townshend protege (drummer, songwriter and lead singer) Speedy Keen, a 15-year-old guitar prodigy named Jimmy McColluch, and the band's namesake - the eccentric self-taught piano player Andy "Thunderclap" Newman. Hollywood Dream (their one and only album) was recorded to capitalize on the success of Thunderclap Newman's surprising number 1 UK hit "Something in the Air." The band was the brainchild of Pete Townshend and Who manager/producer, Kit Lambert. Townshend had been working on separate projects for each when the when his work on the Who's Tommy forced him scale back his outside interests. His solution was to cobble together a band featuring the three uneasy cohorts from different musical backgrounds.
The result is an album that showcases each members strengths, and while it makes for compelling listen, it is often times a frustrating one. Upon its release, Hollywood Dream was met with critical raves and commercial disinterest. But the album, and the story behind it, make for one heck of a rock and roll tale.
No recommendation on this episode.
THINGS WE DISCUSSED ON THIS EPISODE
Thunderclap Newman (L to R): Speedy Keen, Jimmy McCulluch, and Andy Nemwan.
Pete Townshend first encountered Andy “Thunderclap” Newman in art school. Here’s a clip of Townshend discussing his first impression of the man.
Here's Jimmy McCulloch (pictured far right wiht his Rickenbacker) with his first band, the Jaygars. He was 11 when he joined.
a 12 year old Jimmy McCulloch with Pete Townshend. McCulloch's band One in a Million open for the Who.
Here’s a clip of Townshend discussing his first impression of young Jimmy McCulloch.
Pete Townshend not only produced Hollywood Dream, he also played bass on the album.
Here’s the single version of “Accidents.” In some ways, its a superior take to the version on the album.
Watch Thunderclap Newman perform their hit “Something in the Air” on the German TV program, Beat-Club.
After the demise of Thunderclap Newman, Jimmy McCulloch would gone on to play with Paul McCartney in Wings (pictured) and the reunited Small Faces.
