Dreamscape – Toyah Willcox Fansite

Cherry Red are releasing Toyah’s February 1981 concert recorded at London’s Rainbow Theatre as a CD/DVD and a coloured double vinyl LP on 25 November 2022.

Toyah – Live At The Rainbow is released for the first time on CD with seven additional songs, all previously unreleased and restored exclusively for this release.

Previously only available on VHS, the 53-min concert film has been remastered from the original Rolling Stones multitrack reels for the DVD release with improvements to both picture and sound.

The newly remixed and remastered audio has been integrated to the concert for an enhanced viewing experience. All audio remastering was approved by Joel Bogen.

Three of the seven unheard songs appear exclusively on the CD as mono-only (originally mixed by Nick Tauber) bonus tracks, where no existing multi-tracks were available to present new stereo remixes. These three tracks do not appear on the 16-song double vinyl LP edition. Toyah provides a brand-new introduction in the 24-page booklet which contains iconic live photography by Barry Plummer and new notes by Craig Astley, Toyah’s official archivist.

• Continue reading at Mr Kinski’s Music Shack. Pre-order Toyah Live At The Rainbow, and other recent Toyah reissues, at Cherry Red.

Toyah Willcox and Robert Fripp are bursting out of the kitchen and going on tour with Toyah’s full band. An evening of Sunday Lunch reminiscing and full rock classics, familiar from their hit You Tube series, with Robert on guitar. Tickets are on sale from tomorrow.

Toyah & Robert together will introduce the tour concept on this Saturday’s Toyah at Home, 11am at You Tube.

• Further Sunday Lunch Live details, and full tour dates, at toyahwillcox.com. Book tickets here.

Toyah live Brighton, Support Currls
7 October 2022, Concorde 2.

Toyah brings Anthem to Brighton. Gig Report!

Toyah: Toyah Is a four times Brit Award nominated English musician, singer, songwriter, actress, producer and author. In a career spanning more than 40 years, Willcox has had 8 Top 40 singles, released over 20 albums, written two books, appeared in over 40 stage plays and 10 feature films, and voiced and presented numerous television shows.

As a singer, actress and TV presenter, Toyah is in a world beating class of her own, she is, in the words of ABBA, a super trouper. If you dont belive me, sit down with a coffee and have a run through her history on her Wikipedia page! Extraordinary.

Toyah: The Band: The last time I was lucky to photograph Toyah was when she visited Worthing to warm up her album ‘Posh Pop’. This LP put Toyah back in the Top 30 for the first time since 1984. The time before that was Brighton in November 2019 when she played chalk to promote her 2019 charting album ‘In The Court Of The Crimson Queen‘. A new line up of new faces apart from Mike Nichols (bass). Two guitars, drums, bass and keys and Toyah, gave us a full on auditory explosion of sound. This is a classy five-piece band, working with Toyah they helped make the evening snappy and definitely uplifting.

• Continue reading at Scene Sussex.

TOYAH + CURRLS – CONCORDE 2, BRIGHTON 7.10.22

Toyah Entertains Brighton Crowd

It was a quick dash on Friday for me across the city from Resident Records (seeing Sorry’s instore album launch) to Concorde 2 and across four decades to see Toyah performing tracks from her album ‘Anthem’, courtesy of local promoters Black Rabbit Productions.

‘Anthem’ released in May 1981 was Toyah’s biggest selling album going gold shifting more than 100,000 copies in the UK and peaked in the charts at number 2. The iconic album cover showing Toyah as a fairy with wings was used as the backdrop to the stage set.

There was a good-sized crowd gathered for Toyah and her band to come on stage at 8.30pm. As is common with a lot of bands with such a key front person, the musicians came on stage first and the star of the show Toyah, then made her entrance.

For reference, Toyah’s trademark flaming red/orange hair of the album cover picture has been toned down to blond these days. But that was the only thing that she’s appeared to have toned down. There was a lively start to the 19-song set with two of her biggest hits ‘Thunder In The Mountains’ and ‘Good Morning Universe’. This set the tempo for the rest of the evening.

• Continue reading at Brighton and Hove News.

• Toyah At Home: Ghosts Live At The Rainbow Reaction – Watch… • Robert At Home: Episode 10 – Watch… • Objects Of Desire – The Toyah Edition 4 – Watch… • Toyah & Robert’s Sunday Lunch – featuring Chesney Hawkes – Summer Of 69 – Watch…

Press for Toyah & Robert’s Sunday Lunch – This week covering Bryan Adams, with Chesney Hawkes guesting. (Image © Toyah Willcox)

• NME: Watch Robert Fripp and Toyah Willcox enlist Chesney Hawkes for cover of ‘Summer of 69’: It’s the third time in recent weeks that Chesney Hawkes has joined them for their ‘Sunday Lunch’ series – Continue…

• Guitar.Com: Toyah And Robert Fripp Cover Summer Of ’69 With Chesney Hawkes On New Sunday Lunch Episode – Continue…

• Brooklyn Vegan: Watch Toyah & Robert Fripp cover Bryan Adams’ “Summer Of ’69” with Chesney Hawkes – Continue…

• Melody Maker: Watch Robert Fripp and Toyah Wilcox enlist Chesney Hawkes for cover of ‘Summer of 69’ – Continue…

• Brave Words: Robert Fripp & Toyah “Perform” Bryan Adams Classic “Summer Of ’69” With Chesney Hawkes – Continue…

• DGM Live: Toyah & Robert’s Weekend – Continue…

Britain’s Favourite Hits – 1987: Channel 5: Sunday 16th October: 10.30pm
1987. Series 1, episode 8. Simon Bates narrates this look back at 1987, when George Michael, Madonna, and Pet Shop Boys stormed the Top 40. Series regulars Toyah Willcox, Paul Gambaccini and Jenny Powell are joined by Carol Decker, who reflects on the era that her band, T’Pau, finally made their breakthrough.

Britain’s Favourite Hits – 1988: Channel 5: Sunday 23rd October: 10.30pm
1988. Series 1, episode 9. Jenny Powell narrates this look back at 1988, when Bros, Belinda Carlisle and Bomb the Bass were riding high in th charts, and Kylie Minogue went from soap icon to pop star. Toyah Willcox, Paul Gambaccini, Cheryl Baker and Sam Fox add their thoughts on the year.

Billy Idol’s Roadside Tour To Play Cardiff with Toyah & Killing Joke

Billy Idol’s Roadside Tour 2022, comes to Cardiff’s Motorpoint Arena on Monday October 17.

Killing Joke are delighted to be announced as special guests for the tour, after Television were forced to make a late withdrawal, alongside Billy’s other tour guest Toyah.

The ever-popular Toyah will bring an extra sense of fun to the tour. Alongside a flourishing acting career, Toyah carved out a successful musical career with three top ten UK hit singles in the 1980s and the Gold-selling album Anthem.

“We’re looking forward to having Killing Joke and Toyah join us in the UK,” said Billy. “This is going to be an epic show!”

• Continue reading at Entertainment South Wales.

Pointless Celebrities: Challenge: Thursday 20th October: 7pm
Series 6, Episode 14. Alexander Armstrong and Richard Osman present a special celebrity music edition of the quiz that rewards the answers that no-one else could think of. Featuring Mark King and Toyah Willcox, Carol Decker and Limahl, Dave Hill and Dave Bartram and Antony Costa and Scott Robinson.

LIVE REVIEW: TOYAH + VANITY FAIRY AT THE FLEECE, BRISTOL

Here’s a review I’ve long dreamed of writing; namely my favourite live artist, in my favourite live music venue, in my favourite city. If that isn’t enough to make it an interesting night out, my wife is also joining me – her first live gig for forty years. Here, it has to be categorically stated that my wife has no musical passions for Toyah but, as I discovered the Birmingham singer/actress back in 1980 and my wife as recently as 1988, she’s always been (mostly) very patient and contented herself with eye-rolling while I relive my teenage years of enthusiastic pogo dancing. An added element here is that both my wife and I are disabled – this being a key issue for her not attending gigs for so long – so it would naturally be interesting to see how the venue catered for us less-mobile types. Here, knowing The Fleece well was a distinct advantage. To me, it’s the perfect music location, consisting of a single, long room with not a trace of evil staircases. However, we contacted The Fleece well in advance to ask about specific details concerning disabled patrons. The venue did not disappoint us, being courteous and helpful through every stage of the booking process. So, before we get to Toyah, a shout out to Holly Angus and the team in Bristol for their support.

• Continue reading at Joyzine.

Toyah, signing/unveiling new tour posters and programmes, prior to last night’s Anthem Tour gig at Hertford Corn Exchange. The programme includes unseen photos and several never previously seen in print before.

• Click below to watch the video. (Screenshots from a video that is © Toyah Willcox)

SDEtv examines the three physical editions of Cherry Red’s reissue of Toyah’s Anthem, including the super deluxe edition box set. Click below to watch.

Way Back When! 1981: NOW 80s: Saturday 8th October: 9am
Way Back When! 1981: NOW 80s: Wednesday 12th October: 9pm
60 minutes of lesser heard hits from 1981. Including The Pretenders, Spandau Ballet, George Harrison, Toyah & The Pointer Sisters.

Toyah’s Sack The Stylist?! Top 30: NOW 80s: Monday 10th October: 10pm
Pop legend Toyah brings 30 memorable videos featuring a cavalcade of clothing calamities from superstars including Bowie, Madonna, Adam Ant and many more in this crazy countdown!

Toyah Willcox to star “in way you’ve never seen her before” in short film written by Lewes resident

Actress Toyah Willcox has just finished filming a new short film written by a Lewes resident.

The punk icon stars in Louise Monaghan’s ‘Weightless’, telling the story of Maureen, a woman alone on a beach, facing her inner demons and battle with her body. The film is Louise’s debut and was shot on the Isle of Wight by director Lois Norman, known for her award-winning art-house work and stories from female perspectives.

• Continue reading at Sussex World. See more on Weightless at toyahwillcox.com.

Click on the shots below for an exclusive preview clip. Computer from Toyah Live At The Rainbow for #ToyahTuesday.

One of the most long-awaited titles by Toyah fans finally comes home this November. Toyah Live At The Rainbow will be released on CD+DVD and aqua-blue transparent vinyl LP by Cherry Red Records on Friday 25th November 2022. Pre-order here. (Photos © Cherry Red)

Toyah is guesting at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2022 on Thursday 20th October.

The six-day event is taking place at the Birmingham NEC from 18th to 23rd October.

Toyah will be recalling memories of family caravanning holidays and outdoor adventures when she was growing up.

• Visit the Motorhome & Caravan Show website. Use the code TOYAH for a discount. See Toyah’s tweet here.

Way Back When! 1981: NOW 80s: Wednesday 5th October: 9pm
60 minutes of lesser heard hits from 1981. Including The Pretenders, Spandau Ballet, George Harrison, Toyah & The Pointer Sisters.

The 1981 POWER Hour!: NOW 80s: Thursday 6th October: 8pm
60 minutes of power pop & rock! Earplugs at the ready as we rewind to 1981 with Toyah, Genesis, Rick Springfield & Meat Loaf.

Read Toyah’s latest blog at toyahwillcox.com. Including Toyah on Anthem, the Anthem Tour, Weightless and more!

Pop star Toyah Willcox to join star-studded Stratford Music Festival line-up

Veteran pop star Toyah Willcox is joining an eclectic line-up for Stratford Music Festival next month.

The musician, actress and TV presenter is joining the star-studded bill alongside internationally renowned classical pianist Peter Donohoe, celebrated Australian guitarist Craig Ogden and the Orchestra of the Swan – featuring Britain’s leading oboist Nicholas Daniel.

Stratford Music Festical, now in its 26th year, takes place over nine days in November at a range of town venues from Stratford Play House and the Levi Fox Theatre to Holy Trinity Church and the Guild Chapel. And this year kicks off with a very special curtain-raiser on October 22, as Warwickshire Symphony Orchestra has been persuaded for the first time in many years to join the festival.

• Continue reading at the Stratford Observer.

Toyah – Anthem
Deluxe Reissue (Cherry Red)

This is, of all the Toyah reissues this far, also recommended to the casual fan. It contains just as much challenging ‘meat’ as the previous albums, but with the familiar hooks which will help less seasoned travellers navigate the truly fascinating outposts. Unreservedly recommended.

With this 2CD/DVD set, the deluxe Toyah reissue campaign from Cherry Red reaches 1981 – with an amazing four releases having spanned the previous two years from 1979. Anthem, the third studio album, was both the mainstream breakthrough and simultaneously an album which almost didn’t get made. Following the previous year’s live album Toyah! Toyah! Toyah!, the band (which we must remind ourselves, was itself named ‘Toyah’, in much the same way as ‘Alice Cooper’ was originally the band name as well as the frontman) fell apart, leaving just Toyah herself and creative lynchpin guitarist Joel Bogen. A short-lived band was assembled but quickly fell apart again after not really working out, and it seemed as if Toyah, the band, might be done. Toyah herself almost became the full-time vocalist with the band Blood Donor, who had the original version of It’s A Mystery in their repertoire, but after a few demo recordings that didn’t come to fruition. Nick Tauber, recruited as producer again after his work on the live album, pulled together a new crew along with Bogen, comprising bassist Phil Spalding, keyboardist Adrian Lee and future Saxon drummer Nigel Glockler. The new line-up recorded and released the four-track EP Four From Toyah early in 1981, with It’s A Mystery as its lead track, and the record’s unexpected massive success ensured they would not look back from that point on.

• Continue reading at Velvet Thunder. See more reviews of Anthem and other releases here.

• Toyah At Home: We Play Machines at Epcot Centre – Watch… • Robert At Home: Episode 9 – Watch… • Objects Of Desire: The Toyah Edition 3 – Watch… • Toyah & Robert’s Sunday Lunch – feat. Chesney Hawkes – Mr Brightside – Watch…

Press for Toyah & Robert’s Sunday Lunch – This week covering The Killers, with Chesney Hawkes guesting. (Image © Toyah Willcox)

• NME: Watch Toyah Willcox and Robert Fripp cover The Killers with Chesney Hawkes: Their latest edition of ‘Sunday Lunch’ sees them take on ‘Mr Brightside’ with a special guest – Continue…

• Brooklyn Vegan: Watch Toyah and Robert Fripp cover The Killers’ “Mr Brightside” with Chesney Hawkes – Continue…

• Guitar World: Robert Fripp and Toyah recruit Chesney Hawkes for his second Sunday Lunch guest spot – for a hilarious performance of The Killers’ Mr. Brightside: Watch the unlikely trio take on a stratospheric pop-rock classic – Continue…

• Turn Up The Volume: Toyah & Fripp With Some Help From Mr. Brightside Chesney Hawkes: Just when you think that Toyah & Fripp can’t top their most hilarious moments anymore, the fabulous YouTube stars come up with this new Sunday Lunch performance that made me burst out laughing – Continue…

• DGM Live: Toyah & Robert’s Weekend – Continue…

Toyah, on the Anthem Tour 2022, at Bristol Fleece on Thursday 29th September. The set list included the following songs from Anthem: We Are, Pop Star, Jungles Of Jupiter, Obsolete, It’s A Mystery, Demolition Men, Marionette, I Want To Be Free. Click on the photos below for larger versions. (Thanks to Ian | Photos © Ian Davis)