The Mark Butcher Band - Brilliant

Ex England cricketer Mark Butcher's two hour set at Club Riga in Southend was enjoyed by many Friends of Katie.

Mark was asked after the gig if he would like to play for Nick's XI in Katie's match next year! His answer is confidential.

Mark played many of his own songs, a great Steely Dan cover and of course "You're Never Gone" which was brilliant.

As well as appearing at The Albert Hall with his band, this fine musician/singer/songwriter has also performed with some of the greats – including Bill Wyman, Albert Lee, Georgie Fame, Paul Carrack, Kenney Jones and Eddie Floyd.

Mr Eric Clapton is a bit of a Mark Butcher fan too I hear! No stranger in the studio, Mark wrote and recorded "You're Never Gone" in honour of his friend and fellow England and Surrey cricketer, Ben Hollioake who died tragically young, the proceeds of which went to the Chase Hospice.

His warm vocal tone (likened to a cross between Al Green & Robert Cray) is strong and engaging. He's no mean guitarist too. As Mark says "music is about making you feel good and I like stuff you can dance and cry to at the same time...!

I have lsitened to Mark's tribute to Ben Hollioake many times now and think the lyrics to be so wonderful. Have a listen.

You can find out more about Club Riga by going to their link on our "LINKS" page.