Alan is a UK based blues and gospel music researcher, historian and archivist, freelance photographer, exhibitor and websites publisher.
Originator and manager of www.earlyblues.com and www.earlyblues.org , probably the Internet’s longest (and largest) continuously running blues sites dedicated to broadening awareness and understanding of the blues and encouraging and supporting current blues music. Comprises a vast and diverse range of blues material including: the renowned ‘UK and European Blues Festival Guide’, blues festival photographs and reviews, tours and gigs, artist and band interviews, history of the blues in essays, articles, poetry, art and in-depth research projects, blues clubs, forums, lectures and courses, recommended blues books, magazines CDs, DVDs, and radio stations, blues travelogues, blues news, and blues ‘resting places’. A myriad of blues related material!
Also originator and manager of www.earlygospel.com concentrating on the origins and early advocates of gospel music and www.undergroundrailroad.org.uk concentrating on the origins, development and work of the anti-slavery Underground Railroad movement.
Freelance photographer specialising in blues music festivals, tours and gigs across UK and USA. Curator of photographic exhibitions and related presentations and talks. Producer of music photobooks.
Married and now retired with two grown-up daughters and two young grandchildren, they all keep him very busy.
Emeritus Board Member (Historian and Archivist) of the UKBlues Federation.
European Blues Awards ‘Lifetime Contribution Award 2014’ winner.
UK Blues Awards ‘Unsung Hero Of The Year Award 2020’ winner.
Alan can be reached at alan@earlyblues.com