Kenny Dentons" There Ain't No Rules In Rock n Roll" Stories From My 45 Years in The Music Industry.

Kenny Denton
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There Ain’t No Rules in Rock n Roll — The Stories Behind the Music For more than 45 years, Kenny Denton lived, worked and played his part in the world of recording and rock ’n’ roll. Along the way, he met some extraordinary people musicians, producers, writers, characters and friends and found himself in situations that could never have been planned, and probably couldn’t have been invented. There Ain’t No Rules in Rock n Roll is not a history of the music business. It’s something much more personal: a collection of stories about the people Kenny met and the experiences he shared with them. Some are funny. Some are surprising. Some are touching. And some are simply the kind of stories that only come from a life spent around music. Many of these stories were originally intended for Kenny’s book, but had to be left out because of the restrictions on the paperback edition. Others were started years ago but never quite finished. Now they’ve been given a second life. This podcast brings those stories back from the cutting-room floor — along with stories from the book allowing Kenny to tell them in his own way, and to share the memories, characters and moments that have stayed with him throughout a lifetime in rock ’n’ roll. Because when you’ve spent 45 years in recording studios, you learn one thing above all else: There really ain’t no rules in rock n roll Within these podcasts you will discover, which major record company executive warned me of Jimi Hendrix's impending death just three weeks before his died. Learn how Bill Haley intervened to save Chuck Berry's life. Find out how I ended up sharing a pint of beer in a pub with a grizzly bear who sold 250,000 singles without ever charting. Uncover the story of the singing waiter who defied the odds to become one of the biggest artists in history. Find out how I ended up sharing a pint of beer in a pub with a grizzly bear who sold 250,000 singles without ever charting. Explore how John Lennon and Yoko Ono played a role in naming the band Hot Chocolate. Experience the challenges of producing an album with the legendary guitarist Peter Green. Read about the unexpected encounter I had with movie star James Garner, who unknowingly bought me breakfast when I was a teenager. Discover the truth behind Mungo Jerry's hit single "In The Summertime." Learn why Bing Crosby made a heartwarming phone call that touched many lives. Find out what Fred Astaire's mother thought of his singing voice. Explore the remarkable story of the hit songwriter, journalist, and spy catcher who executed an incredible sting operation inspired by the movie "The Sting." Delve into my close friendship with Tony Newley and the true identity of Anthony Newley. My crazy adventure in Louisiana's Cajun country, where I believe I came across Snow White’s and Dopey’s offspring. How I found out that you can always tell a Texan BUT! You can’t tell him much. And much more. My book is available here:There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR

  1. 1d ago

    Kenny Denton's " There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll." A Short Promo For The Book.

    For over 40/45 years I had the privilege to work with some of the most amazing, talented, crazy and often deluded people in the world of music and movies. I've spent endless hours stationed behind the mixing desk, orchestrating the recording and production processes for a diverse spectrum of artistes. From the remarkably gifted to those whose creative spark may have flickered less brightly, I've navigated them all. It began in 1969, at Pye Studios in London, where I was fortunate to learn the art of recording from some of the most acclaimed engineers of the time. I subsequently moved on to De Lane Lea Studios, an expansive state-of-the-art facility acclaimed as the world's largest purpose-built studio. Both Pye and DLL functioned as my educational institutions for mastering the intricacies of sound recording. Significantly, they also served as platforms for me to immerse myself in the realm of record production and song writing, where I gleaned insights from the luminaries who frequented the recording studio and consistently topped the charts. Throughout the years, I've regaled friends and family with countless anecdotes from this captivating journey. As moments turned into memories, the notion to preserve these tales began to crystallize, prompting a profound appreciation for the intricacies of the human mind. It's a marvel that commences its workings long before one's birth and doesn’t stop until the moment one sits down to write a book. Coming up with a name for a book is a crucial task and I needed something both attention grabbing and sales worthy. My initial ideas, "Sold Over 5 Million Copies Worldwide" and "The Number One Best Seller," both certainly have a catchy, attention-grabbing quality to them, but they might not accurately reflect the essence of the book's content. Compiling an accurate timeline of my narratives became achievable through consulting my diaries. Spanning from 1971 to 2009, I consistently maintained these journals, not out of any historical intent, but merely to log the sessions I worked on and the overtime hours I accrued. Unexpectedly, they have emerged as indispensable references, furnishing precise dates and contextual details to my various escapades. Reflecting on my experience within this captivating industry, I've arrived at a simple realisation: You may have been in the business for 5 minutes or for 20 years, you could be very gifted or have no talent at all but to achieve success you must remember one crucial thing There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll. My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR Please check out my Youtube channel Denton 115 Keeping The Memory Alive. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rd0-UuaMjf0&t=742s

    Kenny Denton's " There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll." A Short Promo For The Book.

  2. 2d ago

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir.  "There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll. Excerpts. Billy Ocean.+ AC/DC"s Cliff Williams. + Pye Studios.

    My book is available here: There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR This Deep Dive Review edited segment from Kenny Denton explores the foundational years of his career at Pye Studios, where junior engineers honed their craft during affordable weekend recording blocks known as Saturday Specials. The narrative highlights a vibrant era of British music history is centered around Denmark Street, where aspiring stars like David Bowie and Elton John gathered at the Giaconda Café. Denton recounts his collaboration with the management duo Meyers and Worsley, who achieved surprising success in the Eurovision Song Contest with the track "Jack in the Box". Significant portions of the text focus on the author's relationships with future industry icons, including Cliff Williams of AC/DC and the legendary Billy Ocean, then known as Les Charles. These recollections emphasise the unpredictable nature of the music business, illustrating how minor encounters and artistic reinventions can lead to global stardom. The account concludes with a nostalgic reflection on the enduring friendships formed during this transformative period in London's Tin Pan Alley.

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir.  "There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll. Excerpts. Billy Ocean.+ AC/DC"s Cliff Williams. + Pye Studios.

  3. Sep 8

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.”  Excerpts. PT (3) The Legendary Pye Mobile. Capturing  Hendrix/The Who/ Chicago/John Sebastian. & The Chaos: Recording of the 1970 I O W Festival.

    My book is available here: There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR This Deep Dive memoir excerpt part 3 provides a firsthand account of the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival from the perspective of a young sound engineer Kenny Denton working on the Pye Mobile recording truck. The narrative describes high-pressure interactions with Teo Macero, who issued a chilling and prophetic safety warning regarding Jimi Hendrix shortly before the artist's final major performance. Technical challenges are a central theme, including a chaotic power failure during Chicago’s set and a risky microphone repair amidst The Who’s thunderous stage show. The text also highlights the logistical tensions of the era, such as The Doors’ refusal to be filmed and payment disputes that disrupted the schedule. Beyond the professional hurdles, the author reflects on the personal exhaustion of the crew and a humble encounter with Kris Kristofferson. Ultimately, the passage captures a pivotal historical moment marking the transition between the idealistic 1960s counterculture and the burgeoning rock industry of the next decade. .For the full story along with many more, are in my book “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” is available from Amazon books, in paperback and Kindle. Please see my Youtube channel https://m.youtube.com/user/denton115/videos

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.”  Excerpts. PT (3) The Legendary Pye Mobile. Capturing  Hendrix/The Who/ Chicago/John Sebastian. & The Chaos: Recording of the 1970 I O W Festival.

  4. Sep 8

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.”  Status Quo/ Mungo Jerry/Jesus Christ Superstar/The Legendary Pye Studios 1969. Excerpts. PT 2

    My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR In this Deep Dive Review is from Kenny Denton’s memoir and recounts his formative experiences as a novice employee at the London-based Pye Studios during the late 1960s. The narrative follows his rapid progression from a nervous newcomer to a proficient tape operator, highlighting the mentorship he received from a colleague nicknamed Peanut. Denton provides a vivid look into the technical challenges of the era, such as using manual tape editing and rudimentary microphone setups to create legendary sounds. His recollections include working with iconic artists like Status Quo and Mungo Jerry, as well as managing high-pressure sessions for notable figures such as Tim Rice and Jack Fishman. Ultimately, the text illustrates a vibrant era of music history defined by ingenuity, eccentric personalities, and the transition from dilapidated studio spaces to global chart success.

    Kenny Denton’s Memoir. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.”  Status Quo/ Mungo Jerry/Jesus Christ Superstar/The Legendary Pye Studios 1969. Excerpts. PT 2

  5. Sep 5

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Excerpts. PT (1) from My Memoir.

    My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR In this Deep Dive review from his memoir, Kenny Denton reflects on a storied forty-year career within the music and film industries, transitioning from an aspiring musician to a professional record producer. The narrative outlines his humble beginnings in South London, where a childhood obsession with rock 'n' roll and a job at a record stall fostered his deep musical appreciation. His journey is marked by colourful encounters with underworld figures and a serendipitous meeting with a chauffeur that eventually secured him an entry-level position at Pye Studios. By referencing his personal diaries, the author validates his transition from a teenage dreamer to a seasoned expert who mastered the art of recording. Ultimately, the text illustrates his belief that success in the creative world requires navigating a landscape where there are no rules. The journey really starts from a South London market stall to the legendary Pye Studios is a remarkable story of persistence, chance encounters, and an unwavering passion for music. The East Lane Market Foundation (1962–1967) The author's path began on Saturday shopping trips with his mother in 1962 at East Lane market in South London. Captivated by the music but unable to afford the new releases, he frequented Harry's stall at the back of the market, which sold cheap, ex-jukebox singles. Though Harry initially rejected his requests to work because he was only ten years old, he finally hired him at age twelve, paying him in two or three vinyl singles a week. For the next three years, the author worked on the stall every weekend, building his personal record collection, diversifying his taste with artists like Dinah Washington and Johnny Cash, and learning how to navigate the diverse personalities of market life. Youthful Ambitions and Newsagent Detours After leaving school at fifteen with no qualifications, his focus shifted entirely to starting a band and making it in the music industry. To support himself, he took a part-time job at a Kennington newsagent run by Roger Puree, a tough member of the notorious Richardson gang who also managed the author's band. Though that band eventually dissolved, the author continued working in newsagents, landing a job in late 1968 as a relief manager traveling between central London shops. The Seymour Place Chance Encounter The critical breakthrough occurred on an ordinary afternoon at the Seymour Place newsagent. A chauffeur dressed in uniform came in and chatted with the author, who confidently boasted that his band was going to be the next Beatles. When a customer named George Schmitt entered, the chauffeur played along, boldly posing as the band’s manager and pitching their original songs. Schmitt, who was actually in the music industry, gave them his card and asked for a demo tape. Stepping into Pye Studios (1969) The demo tape led to an audition at Young Blood Records, but a more permanent opportunity arose shortly after when Schmitt secured the author an interview for a tea boy position at Pye Studios. Despite the job paying just £7/10s a week—a steep decline from his newsagent salary of £22 a week—the author eagerly accepted the month-long trial under manager Pat Godwin, launching a 40-year recording and production career in 1969. 🎸 We could also dive into his chaotic days working for Roger Puree—and how a band manager connected to the notorious Richardson gang secured them gigs in the 1960s South London scene.

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain't No Rules in Rock ‘n’ Roll.” Excerpts. PT (1) from My Memoir.

  6. Aug 27

    Kenny Denton"s. "There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” Chas & Dave: & Arthur Mullard.. The Film Actor Who Couldn’t Sing a Note. + "Where There's a Hit There's a writ.”

    My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR This Deep Dive review explores the creative collaboration between the comedic actor Arthur Mullard and the musical duo Chas & Dave during the mid-1970s. It details the production process behind a humorous, spoken-word rendition of "I Only Have Eyes for You," which was intended to capitalise on Mullard's distinct Cockney persona. Despite the track's commercial failure due to stiff competition from Art Garfunkel, the narrative highlights the behind-the-scenes dynamics of the British music industry. The memoir also touches upon the legal disputes and shifting fortunes that occurred when Mullard eventually found chart success with a different label. Ultimately, the source provides a nostalgic reflection on the eccentricities and unpredictable nature of the vintage UK entertainment scene. For the full story is available on my Blog, along with many more, which are in my book “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” is available from Amazon books, in paperback and Kindle. Please see my Youtube channel https://m.youtube.com/user/denton115/videos

    Kenny Denton"s. "There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” Chas & Dave: & Arthur Mullard.. The Film Actor Who Couldn’t Sing a Note. + "Where There's a Hit There's a writ.”

  7. Aug 21

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” & The Crazy Days with The Chaos of Doug Sahm & SDQ, & Texas Groove. & How, Being Early Can Make You Late?

    My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR This Deep Dive Review is an excerpt from the memoir, of producer Kenny Denton who reflects on the chaotic yet brilliant career of Doug Sahm and the Sir Douglas Quintet. The narrative describes the professional friction caused by Sahm’s unpredictable lifestyle, highlighting a humorous ordeal involving a deceptive taxi driver and the artist's chronic tardiness. Despite the substance-fuelled sessions and administrative nightmares such as a famously lost rental car shared with Bob Dylan, Denton emphasises Sahm’s undeniable musical genius. The text portrays Sahm as a pioneering figure whose Tex-Mex and rock fusion earned him critical respect, even if his eccentricities often exhausted his collaborators. Ultimately, the source serves as a fond tribute to a unique artist who prioritised creative authenticity and spontaneity over industry norms. For the full story along with many more, are in my book “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” is available from Amazon books, in paperback and Kindle. Please see my YouTube channel https://m.youtube.com/user/denton115/videos

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” & The Crazy Days with The Chaos of Doug Sahm & SDQ, & Texas Groove. & How, Being Early Can Make You Late?

  8. Aug 11

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” The Remarkable Career and Character John Velasco-Mills. Stories That Nearly Made the Book. Pt (2)

    My book is available here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR This Deep Dive Review provides a biographical look at the prolific career of John Velasco-Mills, a versatile figure in the music industry who excelled in publishing, production, and management. Through the personal recollections of memoirist Kenny Denton, the source highlights Velasco-Mills' leadership at United Artists and his collaborations with iconic acts like Randy Edelman and the Eurovision entrants Dream Express. The narrative emphasizes his magnetic personality and professional influence, which helped launch the careers of numerous entertainers. Beyond business achievements, the passage captures the glamour and eccentricity of the 1970s recording scene through humorous anecdotes involving luxury lunches and high-profile industry showcases. Ultimately, the source serves as a tribute to a lifelong friendship and a successful partnership that shaped many unforgettable moments in rock and roll history

    Kenny Denton"s. “There Ain’t No Rules In Rock ’n’ Roll” The Remarkable Career and Character John Velasco-Mills. Stories That Nearly Made the Book. Pt (2)
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About

There Ain’t No Rules in Rock n Roll — The Stories Behind the Music For more than 45 years, Kenny Denton lived, worked and played his part in the world of recording and rock ’n’ roll. Along the way, he met some extraordinary people musicians, producers, writers, characters and friends and found himself in situations that could never have been planned, and probably couldn’t have been invented. There Ain’t No Rules in Rock n Roll is not a history of the music business. It’s something much more personal: a collection of stories about the people Kenny met and the experiences he shared with them. Some are funny. Some are surprising. Some are touching. And some are simply the kind of stories that only come from a life spent around music. Many of these stories were originally intended for Kenny’s book, but had to be left out because of the restrictions on the paperback edition. Others were started years ago but never quite finished. Now they’ve been given a second life. This podcast brings those stories back from the cutting-room floor — along with stories from the book allowing Kenny to tell them in his own way, and to share the memories, characters and moments that have stayed with him throughout a lifetime in rock ’n’ roll. Because when you’ve spent 45 years in recording studios, you learn one thing above all else: There really ain’t no rules in rock n roll Within these podcasts you will discover, which major record company executive warned me of Jimi Hendrix's impending death just three weeks before his died. Learn how Bill Haley intervened to save Chuck Berry's life. Find out how I ended up sharing a pint of beer in a pub with a grizzly bear who sold 250,000 singles without ever charting. Uncover the story of the singing waiter who defied the odds to become one of the biggest artists in history. Find out how I ended up sharing a pint of beer in a pub with a grizzly bear who sold 250,000 singles without ever charting. Explore how John Lennon and Yoko Ono played a role in naming the band Hot Chocolate. Experience the challenges of producing an album with the legendary guitarist Peter Green. Read about the unexpected encounter I had with movie star James Garner, who unknowingly bought me breakfast when I was a teenager. Discover the truth behind Mungo Jerry's hit single "In The Summertime." Learn why Bing Crosby made a heartwarming phone call that touched many lives. Find out what Fred Astaire's mother thought of his singing voice. Explore the remarkable story of the hit songwriter, journalist, and spy catcher who executed an incredible sting operation inspired by the movie "The Sting." Delve into my close friendship with Tony Newley and the true identity of Anthony Newley. My crazy adventure in Louisiana's Cajun country, where I believe I came across Snow White’s and Dopey’s offspring. How I found out that you can always tell a Texan BUT! You can’t tell him much. And much more. My book is available here:There-Aint-Rules-Rock-Roll-ebook/dp/B0DB3KGRFR

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