The Big Yin concert will pay tribute to the 82-year old marking 60 years since he first performed.
Billy Connolly
Billy Connolly’s life is to be celebrated with an all-star concert at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro. The show is being staged with the comedian’s backing to mark 60 years since he first performed with folk act The Humblebums.
December’s Hoolie in The Hydro: The Big Yin concert will pay tribute to the 82-year old who was forced to retire in 2018 after he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease.
Organiser Gary Innes, 44, said: “When I approached Billy and his family last year about the idea, they were over the moon.
“It’s been 60 years since Billy started The Humblebums and I’m absolutely delighted Billy himself and the family have given me the green light to honour and celebrate his life.
“The show will be full of special guests. There will be a big house band and lots of people who have played with Billy Connolly over the years and lots of people who have been inspired by Billy as well.
“Each year I try to do something special with the Hoolie to celebrate a band or achievement or somebody. We’re talking to the biggest stars on the planet and people closer to home.”
The Humblebums music group, Circa 1970, Billy Connolly (l) and Gerry Rafferty (r)
The Humblebums, who also featured Gerry “Baker Street” Rafferty, were a key part of the Glasgow folk scene in the 1960s, regularly playing in the Scotia Bar.
Billy’s folk roots and beloved banjo remain close to his heart to this day. Award-winning fiddler Aly Bain, who performed briefly with the band, is taking part.
He told the Record: “Billy and I started our careers on a motorbike with a sidecar, and things only got better from there.
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“Since then, Billy and I have shared over 50 years of friendship and countless great memories.
“He’s a very special man and friend.”
Billy worked as a welder in shipyards in Glasgow, before quitting to pursue his career in entertainment.