Messages

This page features letters from people around the world who might have a story about Graham or one of the bands he sang with. Submit letters via e-mail to email@bonnetrocks.com with "Messages" in the subject line of your e-mail.
(Note: Your email will be posted on this page after being edited into an HTML format by the webmaster. So it takes a little while. It is not that your email is automatically added to the messages below.)

Hi Graham

I am really glad that you re-joined Impellitteri for the System X album. Your vocals sound really good. Being a big fan of the Stand In Line album ( I love the way you sing the chorus for Tonight I Fly and Secret Lover ), I was really glad that you came back to the band. I realise that you are no longer with Impellitteri but am really grateful that you returned as vocalist for the System X album. I am a big fan of your days with Impellitteri and own bootlegs of all the shows you did in Japan and the one you did in San Jose with the band. You sound really great on the System X album and you sound really cool on the song Anti-Social Disease from the Best Of Impellitteri Album.

Best Wishes And God Bless

Andrew Silwood

Hi Graham,
I have been able to follow your career since the Rainbow days. I have to tell you frankly I was shocked when I heard your voice on 'Down to Earth'. More than amazing it was! Similarly, following Michael Schenker since the UFO days I explicitly have to state that MSG or UFO have not been able to put together a better album than 'Assault Attack.'
I know you are not the greatest fan of hard/heavy rock, but believe me, there are hardly any singers capable of performing this genre at your level. A Hughes- Bonnet Project should sound the best I can imagine now.
Please, keep on rocking for your fans !

George
from Hungary

Hey Graham,
Thought I would drop you a line having visited your web site.The last time I saw you I believe you were still living on Alma Avenue. Looks like you are still doing well in the music business. You have moved on but I still picture you from the old days playing the Embassy in a talent contest where your voice needed no microphone! I believe my brother bobby helped carry your equipment from time to time.
I'm now living in San Diego California. Take care of yourself.
Yours- Miles Bearman.

G'day Graham,

I listened to your interview on Melbourne's Southern FM on Saturday 31 May, 2003. I wasn't aware you'd had such a prolific career.

As a kid, I loved "Warm Ride" & "It's All Over Now Baby Blue". They'd both be in my top 10 favorite songs of all time. In later years, I've searched music stores to find your music. All I was able to find were the "No Bad Habits" LP & "Baby Blue" single. I bought them both. Apart from those records, I couldn't find any trace of your music. It was as if you'd just disappeared from the music scene completely after about 1978. I had no idea you'd been in all those other bands. Heavy metal doesn't get much radio airplay down this way, so I haven't been exposed to any of those bands.

I'm looking forward to the 2nd Southern FM interview & learning more about your career.

I'm also hoping your Australian tour comes off & I get a chance to hear you live.

All the best,
Rod

Well, well..
In a cardboard suitcase, in the back of the cellar, Graham, I have, I am sure, a clipping from the Skegness Standard of the Graham Bonnet Set(t) (didn't you have 2 t's..?). If you like I'll dig it out & scan it. It's a good photo as I remember - very 1967-8 mod (yes, I know, but it was Skegness..) with you and Steve and two other chaps who used to work in the furniture department of the co-op (Rob & Bob? can't remember) and gave us lifts to the Glider........ In those days you used to do 3 numbers which I loved - Under the boardwalk, Smile (aaah..) and one which is still very much one of my favourite songs - Stand by me. Maybe you cringe at those days, but that was good stuff then and there, and I still remember it well.
It would be fun to hear from you. And if you'd like the Standard photo and some better words to post on the site, I'd be pleased to oblige.
Denise

Hola Graham. En primer lugar, voy a pedirte disculpas por no escribir en inglés. El problema es que el mío es malo, y me arriesgo a que no entiendas lo que te quiero decir. Te conocí cuando grabaste con Rainbow "Down to Earth" y realmente comentábamos con mis amigos, como puede ser que exista un tipo que pueda cantar de esa manera. Hasta mi mamá se hizo admiradora tuya, a pesar que a ella no le gustaba mucho la música que yo escuchaba, siempre me pedía que le haga escuchar "Danger Zone" y una vez tuve la oportunidad de dedicarle esa canción por la radio. Lamentablemente, ya no la tengo mas a mi lado, por lo que seguramente ahora te debe escuchar desde el cielo. Hace muy poco tiempo, tuve la oportunidad de ver en mi ciudad, Rosario, a Glenn Hughes. Jamás imaginé que semejante acontecimiento se podía dar, ya que la mayoría de los artistas internacionales, tocan solamente en Buenos Aires. Que quiero decir con esto, que no pierdo la esperanza de que vengas a mi país, Argentina, y nos podamos sacar el gusto de verte en acción. Somos muchos los que opinamos que estás tranquilamente a la altura de ese monstruo, como también de Dio, Gillan, Coverdale, etc. No quiero aburrirte mas, te deseo mucha suerte en tu próximo recital en California, y ojalá algún día nos podamos conocer personalmente. Dios te bendiga y un abrazo muy pero muy grande.
OMAR A. BORRELLI ROSARIO ARGENTINA

Hello Mr. Bonnet, I think you are 20 points from 10, nothing more to say... Hope Germany will be one place on your next tour..The time is right!!
Greets
Sascha Reisch/ Frankfurt, Germany

Hey Graham, don't know if you actually read/see this stuff, but I gotta tell you right know I'm listening/loving the "Dangerous Games" CD. DOUBLE MAN-DAAAAHHBLE MA-AH ANNNN!! Dude you are awesome! I remember reading an old rock mag. article when you were making this great record and they mentioned you were "under the weather/sore throat" Man, you would never know it. A friggen great performance.I try-TRY to sing along in my car and my mouth bleeds. Ah nothing like bleedin' vocal cords. I also like the latest Impellitterri and love "THE DAY I WENT MAD".  Hope you read this as you have givin' me and many of my friends who were force fed your songs cruising in my car a lifetime of memories and joy! I actually saw ALCATRAZZ a long time ago in Phila. PA. USA. on the DANGEROUS GAMES tour-excellent. If you celebrate-Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
STEVE BEPPEL

Hi.  One would think that Mr. Bonnet would eventually record one of these "rare" live gigs ?  I know I would buy it.  I would love to hear all the old Alcatrazz stuff.  Disturbing the Peace is my favorite....pure genious.
All the best,
Lathan Ritter
Baltimore, MD.  USA

Unfortunately, I was out of town when he played Paladino's here in socal. I hope he can play somewhere nearby again, even if he did feel it was not that great. I will keep watching the website and hopefully can see and hear and maybe meet him in person some time. Thanx!

Ray From Texas
U.S. Navy Retired

Hello to you Graham, and all fans,
I had the privilege to watch Graham's performance at The Beachcomber in Cleethorpes (home ground indeed). I sat on a basic table in a basic club, and it was basically as intimate as you can get.(almost a personal performance).
Now I went to the 80 mor, but this gig I saw (this time) my teenage hero yeah ...I wanna be him type... long time coming, lot of years, but I was back in 1980 and the music, well older maybe, but I was truly blown away..In fact, I stood round of drinks.....! Don was excellent...hadn't aged a bit??? But Chris and the gang were HUGE, ,just too BIG for the small club....Dario I'm sure he was... "and tonight Mathew I'll .. Ritchie......" nearly made it too; and finally late in the evening Graham's dad was introduced to a warm reception for his 90th birthday (correct me if I'm wrong... it was noisy). Now if that's not bringing it home, up close and personal.... I've never laughed at a Whitesnake gig. Simply GRAND even to be there. Many thanks Mr. Bonnet Sir for a memorable night....well remembered.
Oh, fans out in cyberspace- Question...if anyone was at said event...what say you.....? There could be a drink in it..... u first ;-0
Tony

Hey Graham !
I am so glad to see (and hear) you are still around and still rocking ! I have been a very huge fan of yours for years and have followed your career from band to band, project to project. It started way back with the Rainbow album (Down To Earth, which I still have my Vinyl LP!), then the MSG album, all great stuff, then the first Alcatrazz album came out (No Parole) ! WOW was that one of the greatest albums !
A friend of mine who was also a guitarist I was jamming with at the time had turned me on to the No Parole album the day it was released here in the states after he waited on line at a local record shop to grab up a copy then ran over here to play it, at the time everyone was talking about some new guitar "God" Yngwie Malmsteen who had been with some underground thing (Steeler) and gained some notoriety. As a singer myself all I thought was who cares, sure this guy is great and all but these days great guitarists seem to be coming out of the woodwork like roaches out of Harlem, all I thought of was Listen to the vocals! I mean NO one sings with THAT much power in so many ranges like this (especially NOT these days, Now NO one sings anymore, it completely sucks!)!
I was at the Alcatrazz show in New York when you guys opened up for Ted Nugent,, If I remember correctly it was a very warm August night, I do still have my ticket stub in fact ! What a great show that night was, I was right there right up in the front row squeezed by a load of biker dudes who showed up to see Nugent, I was the short kid in the black leather jacket who stuck backstage at the end of the show with a friend of mine, we got to meet You at the time, you were very, very polite and friendly, I guess you thought I was supposed to have been there, I have met my fair share of stars and celebrities through the years between doing shows myself and I cant possibly remember ANY of them being as real and down to earth as you were. Many celeb's are just putting on an act or just being snobby\phony in public (Like Yngwie!), You stopped, took your time, said hello, put out a hand and asked "What did you think of the show?", Holy Crap was my instant thought at the time! I said what was truthful, "It was the best live performance I had ever heard, you guys rock!", SO many singers sound like crap live, You sure didn't, you were right on, hitting notes most guys only leave in the studio, than I remember bassist Gary Shea came over and said something to you and you had to go. Mr. Shea also stopped for a few moments to say hello and handed me and my friend Billy each a white pick with a Gary Shea autograph in gold lettering on one side and the Alcatrazz logo on the other side, (sorry to say it has since been stolen from my home by a person whom I though was a friend, ya live-ya learn) Then a few seconds later is when Jan Uvena(Drums) and Waldo (Keyboard) came by. That was so cool, getting to meet one of my biggest Idols and his whole band (Except Yngwie, He snubbed us as soon as we said "Hey Great Show, you rocked!!"), right there ,live , in person!, ever since then you have been a huge inspiration to me and my singing and sort of taught me that no matter how far you get it's the fans who get you there (On top of all the studio and stage work) and that even 40 seconds can make a difference to a fan which can make all the difference in the world.
Anyway, I really DON'T expect you to remember any of that, hell it was almost 20 years ago and many many shows ago, But I just wanted to say I haven't forgotten and Thanks a million for being a real honest person and for such great songs! Hope you can do some kind of show here in NY again soon, real soon ! I am so sick of all this crappy no talent college garage grunge crap that's around these days, it all sounds the same and none of it has any singing or guitar playing ! Some of us still want real music by real musicians, not a pack of fat kids wearing dumb wool knit caps who's parents had money and paid for their instruments !
What ever happened to being a good or great player got you on an album?! When did it go all so wrong ?! Where are the Cozy Powell's, Yngwie's, these days? The guys who could play! Just glad Bonnet STILL Rocks ! Hey man, Stay Clean, Happy and Healthy and Don't die like every great singer !! Cant wait to hear what album you put out next ! And why does everyone say have an Alcatrazz Reunion? That's been done  people, the band broke up 17 years ago get over that now and enjoy the new stuff ! Though if you come to NY again can you at least do Jet To Jet ! Thanks,
Fan For Life D.J. in New York City

The man with the golden voice. Is there any chances that he will perform in Sweden or some where else nearby? The dream for me is to see Graham join Hughes Turner Project. It would be three kings of rock'n' roll on the same stage. Graham is still the best singer that Rainbow has ever had. Rock on.
From P-J in Sweden

Hi Graham,
Great to see you perform live finally after all these years. It was truly an honor to meet you before the show as well. Thanks for the Autographs!
You and your band really nailed the tunes. I nearly ripped my voice trying to keep up with those final "all night long" singalongs! As I'm sure you may have heard, the G3 tour this year features Vai and Malmsteen. What a treat if they ask you to join them on stage. Hey guys are you reading this? HINT! Hint!
I just want to say thanks for such a great show and a round of applause to the band as well. GREAT JOB! I especially want to thank you guys for
tremendous renditions of Will You Be Home Tonight? and Desert Song. Hopefully we will see more from you and this band very soon. How about a live album or DVD?
Thanks for the music and come back again soon!
Anthony

Mr. Graham Bonnet:  Thanks you for a plethora of musical and vocal excellence!  Music makes the world go round and Mr. Bonnet, you are deeply and truly appreciated for your talent and contribution to the musical universe!  MSG Assault Attack is one of the top recordings EVER!!!  Alcatrazz No Parole is a musical masterpiece.  Impelliteri Stand in Line: AMAZING!  Thank you Graham for making our world a much more pleasant and enjoyable place to exist! Cheers! David Beer Las Vegas Nevada

Hi Graham!

I am a big fan of yours since the "Down to Earth" days and since then I have gathered all your albums, never missing any.
Your two latest heavy metal jobs certainly rocked out my brains! Impellitteri and Anthem! I listen to them almost every day now and it's really hard for me to find even a single track that I don't like! Your set of vocal chords remains the best in the world. Don't they ever get old? You still sound so powerful and yet melodic, just like your songs, even when you are not the writer, something that amazes me even more. I really hope there will be more works with those two bands in the future.

Keep on Metal Rocking!

Angelos
Greece.

Hi Graham.

Glad to see you are up and gigging again. When can we expect a UK visit?
Been a fan since the Rainbow days. I have a (1/2 hour TV recorded) video of your Donnington appearance in 1980...any chance of an official release? Its a great performance.

Cheers

Tim (from England)

Hello Graham,

We've followed your stellar career from Rainbow to Schenker to Alcatrazz, Impellitteri and Anthem to The Day 'You' Went Mad. Having said that...we feel as do thousands around the world you are without question, the greatest vocalist the good Lord has ever blown a breath of song into bar none! Sadly, with all the wonderful music and song writing you have given us over the years we have never had the opportunity to see you live. All we can say is - one day. The following is only a thought or fantasy...what if the strongest voice in modern rock teamed with the greatest guitar player in modern rock. Since Edward Van Halen now resides in the 'where are they now file' why don't you pick up the phone and send out a call that may resuscitate his stalled career. Granted, Coverdale/Page was more than great for its' time, but your fans could only imagine the collaboration results of a Bonnet and Van Halen. Hmmm, only a thought. In any case, thank you for the years of that 'voice'.

Best Wishes and God Bless.

Donnie & Lisa
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Canada

Dear Graham,
I saw you in the flesh in Tokyo three years ago. I was only too glad to see you sing live for the first time! I think it should be noted that the number of new fans like me must be still increasing! It was only 9 years ago that I came to know you, but now I've got almost every CD and LP you've been involved in. I'm really happy with your works.

By the way, I don't know if this is typical of Japanese fans, but I think they tend to expect nothing but heaviness from you. I'm different on this point. I'd also love to listen to catchy and mellow songs such as "Dancer", "Will You Be Home Tonight" and "This Day". Therefore, the show at Paladino's, LA on Feb 21 sounds ideal for me. I'm absolutely flabbergasted by the setlist! I dream of watching a show like that here in Japan.

Hironobu
Yokohama, Japan

Hello, I just read the David Wilson interview, URL provided by this excellent site, with Graham Bonnet.  I must say it was a bit depressing.  I can't believe that a Musician with the talents of Graham Bonnet cannot get a regular gig (in the States) with a group of Musicians that can complement his great talents, specifically his voice, and get the backing of the Music Industry.
I guess the Music Industry in just in a complete funk.  There is so much crap being put out and pushed by record companies.  What ever happened to melody and dynamic range along with all the other important ingredients in Music.
GRAHAM BONNET HAS ONE OF THE BEST VOICES IN ROCK!  With all do respect WAKE UP MR. SCHENKER, MR. VAI, MR. BLACKMORE OR SOMEONE IN THE MUSIC SCENE WITH ANY INTELLIGENCE.   I guess Mr. Impellitteri has some sense.
Anyway, I just needed a place to vent.  A struggling (degreed) musician myself, I just don't understand how someone like Graham Bonnet is not on, or a part of "the scene", so to speak.  I hope the Music Industry wakes up to his talent.
One potential musical direction I think he would fit well in, and I think will become popular again is heavy technically oriented rock with intelligent lyrics (and music of course).  I just picked up the new King Crimson, The Power to Believe, and while I don't think this is Mr. Bonnet's style this is the vein of music of which I speak.   Music that makes the listener use their brain (listen, not just hear).   Perhaps, he is already creating this with Impellitteri.  I have not had a chance to check that out yet. 
Mr. Bonnet has the talent to create such music.  Actually, I think the second Alcatrazz album approaches this.  It is my personal favorite from that project.   Although, I have to say my favorite work of his is a toss up between Rainbow's Down To Earth and MSG's Assault Attack.  It's a shame each of those projects only lasted one release.
OK.  Enough of my banter.  Keep on Rockin' Mr. Bonnet.  Thanks for letting me vent.   Those of us who have had the pleasure of discovering your music (and talents) are certainly thankful to have it.
A Long Time Fan,
Jim

P.S., Another side note that is kind of related.  I remember shortly after The Day I Went Mad became available, I was very excited to pick it up.  I had picked up Underground and really enjoy it (with the exception of a few tunes, no disrespect).   I was heading to Hollywood to do some Training for the Company for which I was working at the time.  I thought, this will be perfect I can pick up the CD in LA while I'm there and listen to it on the plane ride back to Mass.  Well, I couldn't find it anywhere.  I couldn't believe it.  I was disappointed.  I later found this web site, but had already picked it up online.  I certainly look forward to future releases.

Hi there!
Here Miguel Angel, a dedicated fan from Spain. Graham Bonnet? Oh no...Midas Bonnet! all thing that he touch, turn into gold...Rainbow, M.S.G., Impelliteri, Alcatrazz...What can I say? Hard rock needs people like you!
Miguel Asturias

Graham
I have followed you since then (Since You've Been Gone). I just wanted to say to you "You're great", and you have still fans in Turkey.
Best regards,
Mehmet Yildirim

Hi, all.
Have just seen the Alcatrazz "Power Live Show" It's only taken twenty years, but boy was it worth the wait-bloody brilliant. Have followed Graham for many years! What has happened to Jan Uvana, Jimmy Waldo and Gary Shea? Would love to know if anyone does know please email me, thanks.
Your in Rock!!
Julian Lane.

What's Up!

Just wanted to let you know I flew into L.A. from New Mexico just to see Graham...and he didn't disappoint.  I have waited over 20 years to see him in concert and I hope it won't take that long to see him again.  I got to chat with him for a few minutes before and after the show and he is just such a great guy.  I had met him in '85 on the DTP tour and he was just as nice back then.  He took the time to autograph some CDs for me.  He told me that there might be some more US dates this year and I will definitely be attending a few more concerts if that is the case.  I just wanted to thank you for keeping me updated on any news from Graham, if it wasn't for you I would never have known about the show last Fri. 

Thanks,
Alan Hollingsworth

P.S.
Howie kicked ass on guitar!!  he nailed every song perfectly which is not easy considering Graham has played with some of the best guitarists in rock history, Howie has a great future!!

Hi Graham!! I'm an old time fan, love all the stuff you have done!! Rainbow, MSG, Alcatrazz, but my two favorites are Impellitteri and the awesome job you did with Anthem "Heavy Metal Anthem." What an album! Never stop singing! I'm going to the concert at Paladinos!! See you there!
CARLOS

Dear Graham
I've admired your voice since I was a college kid. You and Rob Halford are the only two male vocalists I've ever heard that actually sound like men. Elvis and Jim Morrison sounded very good as well. But your voice....
I will always envy.
My Best Regards,
Rafael E. Aguirre
J.P. Morgan Chase & Co.
Houston TX

I'm so glad I found this website!
I met Graham Bonnet along with Bob Kulick backstage at a Blackthorne show in Oakland CA.  They were both overwhelmingly kind and friendly.  Something you don't always expect from rock stars.  Especially since Graham always has that great "Mr. Cool" James Dean image. 
Graham, you were were the best singer for both Rainbow and MSG, and remain as one of my favorite vocalists.  I can't wait for your Feb 21 show in Tarzana.  Luckily, I just moved to LA!

Doug,
Los Angeles, CA.  USA

Graham,

For Christmas, my brother-in-law gave me System X. I couldn't believe it! You were back (ARE BACK!) and I was floored by the power in your voice.
I wore out "Stand in Line" when it came out and I have been on a hunt to find a vintage music video you did for "All Night Long.", one of rock's coolest tunes.
I am a former "signed" recording artist myself and I am in awe of the way you keep coming back. Please don't ever stop!
Thanks for the music!

Jim Erdman
Nashville, TN

Hi Graham.
What plans are there to come over to England ? Still can't forget the tour of December 2001.
The shows I went to were fantastic !! And we certainly need some more.
Regards,
Paul

Hi,
I'm a musician going back to the 1960's, and I never knew who "The Marbles" were until now. (I should have known) two brilliant tracks that I have been seeking: Graham Bonnet, By The Light of The Burning Candle, and Only One Woman. aka "The Marbles." If he wants to start his own band "The Graham Bonnet Band" I for one would be proud to back him.
Mike Niblett.

Hi from Barcelona, Spain:
We're talking with my girlfriend on December 2001 on back-stage last year, you're one of my heroes...Today while I was driving  I listen your cd "Underground", again a great CD, as same with Chris Impelliteri '02.
I recommend to visit Barcelona with Impellitteri this year and if I can help in anything only have to ask.

Cheers x you & Cozy in heaven
Victor Balcells
Dream Cars

Dear Graham:

You're my favorite singer. "Down To Earth" and "Assault Attack" are both great records. It's disappointed more than a few fans that you were with Blackmore and Schenker for only one album each. I often think about far you could've pushed them musically if you'd made more albums together.
Supposedly you and Schenker had a falling-out. So what I wanna know is: WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED?! Did you blow it? It's been 20 years now. Time for you to come clean. No sugar-coating. Give us the truth.
Sincerely,
Dave

Greetings-
I'm a fan of "Down To Earth" and "Assault Attack" and I think "System X" is amazing!  I hope the gig in February is being recorded for a DVD so the people from all over the world who can't attend the gig can see the show.   I'm sure it will be a great show.  All the best to Graham and his   family.  

Mark Skaar
Forest City, Iowa

Hi Graham

I'm a friend of Don's, and we met after the Blues 'n' Soul gig near Don's place in Great Gransden a year or so back.
Just thought I'd write to say that I stumbled across a review of the gig just now, and reading through it made the hairs stand up on the back of my neck! I'm now knocking on 40 (in March), and I'm still amazed at what good LIVE music does... and I ain't complaining!
Keep up the good work, and maybe see you again some time.
Best wishes
Daron Harvey

Mister  Bonnet.  My name is Bobby. I listen to your CD. Everyday my favorites are Bad Girls,  Danger Zone. They kick butt. A lot  of my friends think I look like you. I don't. They're always asking me to sing Rainbow. Big fan for years .. listen to   All Night Long on PC right now.. seen you back at Rocky Glen Park back in (I believe) 1986 right after I graduated.. One great show. Place is brunt down now. I think  Alcatrazz was one of the last bands to rock there... I was up in front tiny an..crushed and drunk..maybe well l got to go night night ...
PS: Are you going to tour the States. Let me know. Great to see now you're still rockin....
Bobandit 
Lets jam.. Good night

Thank you for the music (is this Abba?!?) Love your work with Yngwie and Ritchie and Schenker! You are the great voice of rock, you have a big voice with emotion and passion! I THINK you rock real bad!
Have a great new year!
Lost in Swede,
Christer Holmgren !

Mr. Bonnet,

I have just found your website and I am planning to buy some of your recent recordings soon!  You are one of my favorite vocalists of all time.  You really know how to lay the flames to a recording.  I am forty and I play in a band myself and we do a decent rendition of "All Night Long" from your Rainbow days (not nearly as good as the original of course).

Graham, I thank you for the many wonderful hours of your vocal recordings and I am so glad to hear you are still at it.  I only regret that I never got to see you live.   Who knows, maybe you'll make your way into the mid-west one of these days!!   You are an artist who knows restraint, passion and power - way to burn down the house !!!  Now that I know you are still kickin' it I look forward to "The Day I went Mad" and "Underground".   I'm also looking forward to an updated discography page so I can buy up anything else you've got available.

Man,  you wouldn't believe how many of my younger friends I've turned on to you.   They're always getting me to listen to the newer stuff that they're into and then I just say, "Not bad, but listen to this" and I proceed to spin "Assault Attack" or "Rock You to the Ground" and watch their fucking jaws drop.   Now I can let than know that you are still out there and recording with the likes of Slash and Vivian Campbell.

Great to get re-acquainted
Thanks
Dave Trierweiler
"Mean Streak"

Graham, just a quick note from a fan in Illinois. Thank you for many years of great music. As you have fronted different bands, I have also and you have always opened my ears to new great music!! Many thanks.
JOE FIELDS

Hi Graham,
Simply fantastic music, I have enjoyed it for a long time now, but why is it so hard to buy here in Aussie land? Here in Perth, WA, there is a huge following, any chance of a concert in this part of the world?
Joann

Happy Birthday Graham,
You have such a fabulous style of music, I don't hear enough of it. Would love to have more, but finding copies is impossible here in the down-under. Albums I have are worn out, need CD's to keep going. Any chance of coming to visit here in Aussie land?
Joann

Happy birthday, Graham!
I hope you come back to Japan!

Yuji Shishido
Tokyo, Japan

Graham is such an under appreciated artist.  I love that he endures....DON"T STOP ROCKIN'!!
David Gerbic

Just bought a turntable for the first time in yonks and managed to play "Down to Earth". "Since You Been Gone" remains one of the great rock singles and "Lost in Hollywood" is a classic Rainbow track.
I was at the Monsters of Rock Concert in 1979. You were awesome.
Many thanks for a great contribution to my adolescence.

Good luck to you.
Andy Bulman

Graham, I am a Spanish fan of your different albums with Alcatrazz, Rainbow, Impellitteri, MSG. But I have a good idea for your next project with  Impellitteri. You have an excellent duo and System X is for me the best album (heavy metal) in the 2002. I want more albums with Impellitteri.
For me, you have an excellent setlist for a double live album. You think since Down To Earth to System X. Of course this project is called Graham Bonnet/Live, but for me Impellitteri is the best guitar hero with you. I don't know, excuse me, but I want this 2CD Live with your musicians or with Impellitteri..., and you remember Alcatrazz. Come on, come on, reunion of Alcatrazz' live album for reunion?
Graham remember these immortals for your next concerts:
Desert Song
Assault Attack
Samurai
Kree Nakorie
Island In The Sun
General Hospital
Jet To Jet
God Blessed Video
Skyfire
Breaking The Heart...
Eyes Of The World
Hiroshima Mon Amour
Makin' Love
Lost In Hollywood
All Night Long
Graham, think about my question for the next project.
Aahhhh Metallic Live and the live video with Steve Vai. I wait these material on DVD in the next future.
---------------------G.B. F O R E V E R----------------------------------------
JUAN MANUEL PIDAL

I was a rock music fan back in the 80's and 90's and occasionally play my old albums. I dug out Assault Attack. What a record - amazingly unique with some masterful songs. The lyrics and vocals are amazing as are the music, and Schenker's soloing is fantastic. I've just listened to a bit of the new Impellitteri record to hear what Graham's up to, and it's great to hear that voice still in fine form. Now I'm hoping to see Graham on tour in London (or nearby) sometime soon!

Tom, High Wycombe, UK.

Just a quick note to say I saw you when you did the the Rainbow gig in Bradford, and it was superb. Your voice is still staggering. Are you doing any gigs towards the end of this year up north.

Cheers,
keep rocking
Viv Griffiths

Hello Graham:
I am one of your fans from the earlier days. Loved your Rainbow stuff,and really got into Assault Attack with MSG. One of my fondest memories of you is when I was in just out of high school. You and Yngvie came to Houston on the first Alcatrazz tour. Myself and 5 of my closest friends came to see you at Cardiff's. You were awesome, one of the best I had seen. It was great how you upstaged the show off Malmsteen, without trying too. I still recall the nice dressed man with the awe inspiring vocals that blew us all away. I had not seen you before, I was 19 at the time. I still recall you nodding to myself and friends as we rocked to you guys. We all freaked out, saying,,,He smiled at us. This vocal god smiled and nodded at us!! Some girl asked, does he know you guys?? That made us all feel great that a vocal God in a real band new we existed!!! Now..at 38 I am still a huge fan! I read of a possible original Alcatrazz reunion. That would be nice. I look forward to seeing again. And can not wait to hear the new cd.....
Gregg Hyma

Hello from America!!!  Mr. Bonnet, you're the damn nastiest balls-to-the-walls vocalist we've ever had here. Nobody can come close to your power and fury in the studio and on stage. Speaking of which, why the hell do you never play here in the States???  We need a "Bonnet fix" real bad, and it's been way too long. Please visit Phoenix ASAP!!!   ...And for those of you on this planet who want a taste of what the Man can really do, get a hold of MSG "Assault Attack" with GB on Vocals. Que up "Desert Song". You will surely be impressed!
Love, and Peace Everywhere (yes it's possible...)!!!  
~Dean Palmer, Queen Creek, AZ, USA, Earth~

Just a hello from an old friend and a lifelong fan. My band had the honor of playing a show in the early 80's with Alcatrazz at Hermitage Landing near Nashville, TN. on a floating stage on the lake. We hung out all day and had a blast. I've still got some video & photo's. When people ask me to name the nicest people I've ever met, Graham Bonnet is one of the first people I think of.
Peace.
~Diamond Tim

Hello Graham [and all GB fans], looking forward to the new album. If any track is half as good as Desert Song it will be enjoyed by all!! That track has everything!!

Eddie

Well, I've just received the CD. What a great album. Great to hear Mr. Bonnet in fine voice. What's the next project after this one. Is there going to be an album of the tour with Don Airey?

Long awaited day has come. I just got System X in the mailbox. Of course I put it on immediately and ..... It was definitely not what I expected to hear. It was BIG BANGGGG right from the start!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Heavy, dry sound with no cheesy keyboards, fast and stylish. GB is roaring and very serious about it. I haven't listened to any other album by Impellitteri than Stand in Line (and probably will not until the next with GB is out ), but I suspect it is more of the Impellitteri record than SIL. I'd compare it to Blackthorne / Anthem and I think it's the heaviest thing Maestro ever did. Of course it is not without lovely romantic vocal moments and what I really appreciate is no instrumental or Rainbow song. Graham Bonnet is still one of the Greatest singers living on the planet and I relay hope it's going to be more great music whoever he plays it with.

To make sure it will last for a long time. Folks, please BUY the records. Don't burn'em. $30 is not to much for the great artist's record which released not that often. Artist needs this money to deliver the next product. Sorry for this lecture but I feel to say this. I am an ex-musician from Russia and every good project has failed there because of pirate market. I hope everybody will enjoy System X. I'm already waiting for the next great Bonnet.

Georgiy Korneyev
Santa Barbara, U.S.

Hello Graham - The new cd "System X" is a fuckin' gem. Keep up the great work. Cheers to the best rock singer on the planet!
Doug Dupe

Subject : Impellitteri's "System X"

Hi,
I don't know if I emailed you before about System X. I visit bonnetrocks.com from time to time. System X is fantastic ! I bought it when it first came out through gemm.com (seller named Mundo). I've read it's been selling very well in Japan. I won't be surprised if it gets released in Europe. As great a disc as it is I'd be very surprised if it got released in the states. It would have to sell extremely well in Japan and Europe to be put out here. Nonetheless, I highly recommend it to anyone who's an Impellitteri or Bonnet fan. It rocks from beginning to end.
I read on Impellitteri's official site that he's releasing a "best of" in September with bonus tracks. I don't know if Bonnet will sing on the bonus material. I would not be surprised if he did. I think Rob Rock is pretty much out of the picture.

Thanks,
Jim

Subject : System X

I picked up System X from gemm.com. The sellers name is MUNDO. He's in Japan. He's a bit expensive but his service is excellent. I highly recommend him. I think it's a great disk. From what I've read online System X has been getting a lot of positive reviews.

Jim

Subject : Message from Japan

Hi! all
My Name is Yosi-Tanaka. I'm from Japan. I heard the new album of IMPELLITTERI. I thought that the voice of GRAHAM was the highest as usual.
But it is missing something. It is because I wanted to also hear the ballad which GRAHAM sings to my soul. However, I am satisfied with the new album. Next, please also give me a ballad.

Yosi-Tanaka

Subject : System X!

Hello Graham,
Just to let you know how much I LOVE your singing on the System X-CD ...CONGRATULATIONS !!! Please keep on pleasing the world with masterpieces like that. I sure hope to see you on tour someday.
Lots of Peace Love & Joy,
Alex 

Subject : Great CD!!

Hey.
Just wanted to say that the new Impelliterri CD is unbelievable!!!!! Graham kicks ass on this CD. I recently listened to Down To Earth and I can't believe how Grahams voice is just as good if not better now! Is there any chance of another CD with Impelliterri??
Thanks,
Mike

Subject : System X

Just ordered the Japan version from www.aorheaven.com - always a good site for European & Japanese releases. Efficient too.
Will write review when my copy arrives
Best wishes,
Tom Dixon

Subject : God bless you Graham!

Hello Graham,
I've been following & listening to you since Down To Earth. You have a tremendous voice, I've enjoyed listening to Alcatrazz & Impellitteri also MSG Assault Attack. That's my favorite work of yours with Michael Schenker ie; Dancer & Samurai. All of your work sounds great...keep it up. Thanks, Graham.
Sincerely,
James N.

Hi everybody

I'm a Mexican fan, and I've been looking the lyrics from Night Games, Lost In Hollywood and Starcarr Lane. If anybody have this lyrics, please e-mail me to psycho5150_2000@yahoo.com . I really appreciate.
Thanks
IVAN REYES

Hi, thanks for the site, good info on our favorite man. Any Australian fans - email me!
Cheers,
John.

My name is Fernando J. Franco
I play Keyboard since I was 5 and I am a big fan of this incredible singer. I like when he does arpeggios with his voice, and the high notes...Yes - This is all about Graham! I live in England for the past 10 years but I was born in Brazil the country who won the "World Cup 2002"....
He's my E-mail address: fajfranco@hotmail.com
Fernando Franco

Hi,
I was just listening to Night Games on my PC after finding it on the net,(I did buy it when it was first released, so i figure its not pirating :-)), and I was wondering if GB had a website. Sure enough I found Bonnet Rocks.
I pretty soon read that GB was 54 and felt depressed, that makes me errr....36?. Felt worse about GB being 54 tho !!
Being not far from Skeg myself (till a year ago), and being an original 80s 14 year old headbanger, GB was the nearest I ever got to knowing anyone famous. Seriously though, I consider him to have one of the best rock voices of all time and was by far the best vocalist Blackmore ever worked with, including Ian Gillan. All night long has to be the best piece of work Rainbow ever did.
I'm just so glad that he's still strutting his stuff and that all seems well.

best regards,
Roger Hall

Subject : Down To Earth

Hey, if this is indeed going to Graham, all I can say is, Down To Earth was a great LP, dude you kicked ass on those tracks. Since You Been Gone, All Night Long and even Lost In Hollywood are still fresh today.
Good luck, hope you're well.

John Melillo

Subject : I never thought I'd see it, but I'm so happy I did!!!!

Dear Graham,

How are you? I've been a fan of yours since I heard your work with Chris Impellitteri on the "Stand in Line" album. Since 1988, I have fervently been trying to collect all of your records, because your beautiful, powerful, and incredibly sensitive voice has moved me beyond what words can describe.
It's great to know that there is FINALLY an official site for you! Graham, I want you to know how much I appreciate your work. I'm a professional musician of 23 years, and I've worked hard out in the universities of California to help make sure that the name Graham Bonnet is stamped firmly as an immortal name in rock and roll history.
A serious note here: I remain open to you if you ever need a keyboardist. I would give anything for the opportunity to perform with you, and if you were willing, I'd be glad to play for you. If not, then I'll simply continue to appreciate your fantastic voice. May God bless you, Graham, and your family as well!

Sincerely,
Tom Willbanks

Subject : A Letter From Skeggy

Graham
The first time I heard you was when you and Roger Sleath used to practice in the room above the garage, When I lived down the road back in the 60's, and have been following you ever since.
A Faithful fan
Roger

PS Have managed to get hold of some Alcatrazz (Great)

Hello.
I just wanted to say that I really love your voice. You are the best singer I have ever heard. And your work with Rainbow is amazing..
Best regards from Erik.
http://gentlegiant13.tripod.com/

I remember the first time I heard the voice of Mr. Bonnet: It was a Friday morning in 1980, I came home from school at lunchtime, switched the radio on and heard `All Night Long` for the first time and was totally blown away by the power of his vocals. Since that day I have tried in vain to emulate his singing style in countless bands but usually ended up with a sore throat!
Graham, in my opinion is the ultimate rock vocalist. Every song he sings he sings with feeling and emotion.
I no longer listen to much rock music but occasionally I like to sit back, put on some Graham Bonnet songs and remember that first day I heard that amazing voice. Long may he continue and somewhere I hope someone gets the same feeling of excitement and enjoyment I got when I first heard the greatest rock singer of all time.

Tom Murphy

Subject : My favorite singer

Hi Graham,

You are my favorite singer and thank you for your powerful voice like an earthquake. I live in Paris and I hope to see you soon on stage.

Best regards.
Michel 

Hi.
I met Graham last year, at a Rainbow gig in Portsmouth. I was having a nice conversation with all of them. Graham is a very nice person and very cool to talk to!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hello, I'm Lari's mate Katie.

thanks
Lari

Subject : Grand Rapids Michigan

Hey Graham, I've been Rockin with you Since the "Early Days" with Rainbow and Michael Schenker Group. I've never been to one of your concerts yet. Why don't you guys come to Grand Rapids Michigan. We really "Rock" up here. We have some awesome venue's. Hope to see you up in GR.
Al Baumann 

Subject : Island in the Sun

Dear Graham,
I have been a fan of yours since a friend of mine turned me on to you when the first Alcatrazz album came out. God, you totally kick!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Ole Yngy Wingy got the better end of that deal by hooking up to your wagon. I think the only reason he was able to get to where he was going as fast as he did was because of the exposure he received by being with you. I'm not trying to put him down. I'm just giving my opinion on the whole Alcatrazz thing as I saw it. If you have the lyrics to Island In The Sun I would love to get a copy of them from you. Do you ever plan on playing anywhere in the Norfolk, Virginia area. If so I will definitely be there. Thanks for all of your awesome music.

David Vandenberg-Kaisler

My first experience of Hard rock music was a C90 tape recording of Rainbow at Donnington 1980 recorded from the BBC's transmission of some of that gig.
The power of Graham's vocals just blew me away. He has the most incredible range and depth.
I have been lucky enough over the years to obtain many of Graham's vinyl performances including the Stand in Line album.
It's a shame that someone has not had the good sense to release the entire Donington 80 gig on CD as for me this is Graham (and Rainbow's finest hour). So come on Polydor, raid your vaults and give the world some 'real' music !

Regards
Mark Green

P.S. And Polydor ...... whilst you are at it lets have the Donington 80 gig on video as well!

Subject : Tour the UK again

Hi Graham,
A mad fan writes to a brilliant voice last heard live 16-08-80. Followed the voice for years lets have some more.
All the best,
Julian Lane

Subject : WE SALUTE YOU
Hello brothers of the rock, I tell them that I have a band in Chile, I am the singer. Our principal influence is Rainbow-Alcatrazz and there stops my inspiration obviously is Mr. Bonnet. We plays songs like "Since You Been Gone" or "All Night Long".
I want to know if some day we will be able to see it in Latin-American lands. To the Hispanic friends who want to write on Alcatrazz or Rainbow...
Rodrigo
http://alacresta.cjb.net

I have just found the website, via "Highwaystar". And about time too!
I have been a big GB fan since the heady days of RB's Rainbow (I still think that it's the best line-up). The Impellitteri stuff was good, but I still have a soft spot for Alcatrazz, particularly "No Parole". Would be great to see them reform for a tour and album with Malmsteen! Yup not Vai!!!!! Line up, Great album although a wee short. Assault Attack I still maintain that it is the best of the MSG albums (contrary to people saying that the Gary Barden era was tops. Why do people always say that the first was best? It's the same with Rainbow and RJD!!!) Why does everyone neglect to mention "Here comes the Night" ??? Again a great album.
Graham Willans  

Great to see and hear about what Graham is doing!!! I had the pleasure of seeing Graham at the Rainbow Music Hall in Denver, CO, both times with Alcatrazz, once with weewee (Yngwie) and the other with Steve Vai. What a voice!!!!! But like all bands not from around  Colorado the lack of oxygen took its's toll, but he still sounded great. I got to meet him back in their bus with Steve Vai, Jan and I believe Gary Shea was there, very cool people. To this day all my friends and me have a saying "EVERYTHING'S BETTER WITH GRAHAM BONNET ON IT!!" Hopefully see you in the States (Colorado) soon!!
kjs@wakeassoc.com

Greetings all,
I've been a fan since '83 when a friend turned me on to Alcatrazz. I have been looking for the lyrics to Island in the Sun. If anybody can help it would be greatly appreciated.

David Vandenberg-Kaisler

My name is Rodrigo, I live in Chile (South America), and I have a band to tribute to RAINBOW, calls RISING and of course "The voice" favorite singer in us; Graham Bonnet...
I will hope, some day you present on here...(maybe in Brazil or Argentina), Chile is waiting for you, cuz we know it, you are the best...
see you Master and thanks for many moments of listen you great voice...
bye.

Dear Mr. Bonnet!!!
I'm very happy to visit your official web-site being your so-called die-hard fan over last 25 years & still trying to collect all your records. You are the greatest rock vocalist in the world & I can't imagine my life without listening to your vocals!!!
Thank you very much for everything you're doing for me & my friends with your killer voice!!!!
Hope to hear from you one day!!!
Best wishes &... ROCK ON!!!!
Sincerely,

Herman Babkin,
Program Director/ M1 Music TV- Channel,
Minsk, BELARUS

I am a great fan of Graham from Japan.
Your singing ability is the world's No.1.
I expect your visiting in Japan.
Shigeru Miyata

Hi all.

Back in 1981, when Graham sang in Rainbow, a friend and I had a very nice day. To say the least.

Rainbow was going to play in Gothenburg, Sweden, and we wanted to locate the hotel they were staying. Unfortunately there was a strike going on among busdrivers so there was only one bus available to take us down-town. We then had to walk for XX miles to cover all the possible hotels. But if you put a little effort to it.....

When we asked the staff at the last hotel they told us that one of the band member just held a press conference and it was OK to sit down and wait for them to finish. When the reporters left the hotel bar, where the interview had taken place, we asked (Graham) if it was OK to have a few words with him. He looked at us, in a strange, "snake eyed", almost suspicious, way and asked us: "Are you ordinary people?". (Or something like that). We stuttered something like : "eh....yes, eh....". He then asked us to follow him back to the bar where he bought us a beer and a sandwich. And then we talked with Graham for
almost two hours. He told us about the tour and a thousand other things. Finally he said he had to leave us and get ready for the gig. After a while Roger Glover, Don Airy and Cozy Powell showed up. They had been out doing some shopping or so. We had a nice talk with them as well.

I especially remember the "photo session" we had with Cozy (I truly miss him) when my friend was to nervous to be able to take a picture. Cozy told him to relax but.... So I was to take the picture instead. Micke, my friend, then realized he could be standing next to Cozy. Trying to look cool he put his arm on Cozy's shoulder. Cozy looked at him and started, I don't know what to call it but he was "all over" Micke.

To tell you all about that day would take too long, but can tell you this: These guys really gave us, and others who showed up later, a very nice memory of them. They where absolutely no "Untouchable stars". And the gig...Perfect. But most of all we had a very nice couple of hours with a giant among singers who turned out to be a very nice guy. Thank you for that, Graham.

Take care
Kuno

Hallo Mr.Bonnet. I am your fan from Bulgaria. Here in my country we're not listening to groups like Limp Bizkit, but we love the music of Rainbow, Whitesnake , Black Sabbath , etz.....
One of my very priceless albums that I have in my collection is " Stand In Line " ' 1988 with Chris Impellitteri. My sincere congratulations for the the way you sing in that album. I wish I could have more of your albums, but I'm not sure if it is possible to find one here. Shame on me - I have only "Down To Earth " ' 1979. I promise that when it will be possible for me, first thing I'll buy by Internet will be " The Day I Went Mad " ' 1999 with Vivian Campbell. By the way I've seen your bass guitarist Tony Franklin in live here in Bulgaria with Whitesnake in 1998. D.C. called him " The Beast ". Is he really one? I hope you'll make your Bulgarian fans happy having a concert with your band here soon.
for ever yours
Kremen

Hi Graham,  just wanted to say that you are one of my fave vocalists, second only to Halford. First time I heard you was the 80's Impellitteri album , been hooked ever since. I nearly fell over when I found out that you also were responsible for one of the best Pop songs to come out of the 70's : Warm Ride, I love that song.Anyway I cant wait to hear your new stuff, if at all possible bring it to Australia.
Nathan.

Vassil Vassilev, Sofia, Bulgaria

Ray Fox - Scunthorpe.

Cheers Graham and see you on tour,
Andy

BW from Denis

Kylie xoxoxox

Blackpool

Stefan Rabinowitsch, Potsdam, Germany

Saw Graham live at the Gransden Blues and Soul gig, and the guy was just awesome. The voice and stage presence were sheer class, and it was great to see him perform with no real pressure,and enjoying himself back on stage in England.Also had the pleasure of meeting the great man himself after the gig, what a nice surprise when you meet one of your heroes and they DON`T turn out to be a complete tosser!
A true star, and I got home that night and played Assault Attack again, still the man's finest moment.
Cheers Graham,
Andy Bolton,
Cambridge
England.

As a high-school age teen, I started getting into heavier-type music (after my disco and classic rock phases) mainly Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and their derivations. Well, Graham, you are a big part of that, and it's good to be able to get on the net and, after ten years, see that you and all the rest of the early greats that I listened to are still musically active. I hope you have many more albums left in you for the future. Your distinct voice is just too precious to go off into retirement! Take care.

Joe

From : OZZYLAND17

Hello Graham. I just received an e-mail from Dario Mollo saying he will be on tour with you, he is one great guitar player, a perfect fit for your songs. How about a live CD from this tour, live versions of "Underground" & "The Strange" would be great.
Best of luck,
Rick

hello graham,
first of all i would like to say i think you are one of the greatest singers in hard rock/heavy metal of all time!!!! i've been a big fan of yours for along time since the days of rainbow, alcatrazz and impellitteri,  which brings me to the reason I'm writing. i was so excited to hear that you've rejoined impellitteri, the stand in line album is one of my all time favorite metal records. your voice and lyrics is what put that album over the top. I'm a big impellitteri fan as well but since you left their albums although musically very good, the singer and especially the lyrics were quite lame. i hear that the new album is going to be in the stand in line vein, which I'm so happy to hear. the song leviathan has to be the greatest metal song of all time, so dark, mysterious and heavy...what an awesome song. well i wish you all the luck in the world and i hope you stay with impellitteri and i cant wait to hear this new masterpiece!!!!! take care and much continued success to you and impellitteri.
your #1 fan,
ed licari
new jersey, usa

Absolutely excited to know that Graham Bonnet is still around! I remember his voice w/ Rainbow and really came to love it w/ MSG's Assault Attack of which I have on vinyl having bought it the day it came out!
Graham has a really cool voice and its fantastic to see him still going strong. I plan on going to CDNow and checking on getting some of his stuff.
I would like to hear him and Rob Halford do a song together as Rob and Bruce from Maiden did on 'Resurrection' that would be almost to much to handle or if he did one w/ Udo Dirkschnieder. Any plans for a team up w/ other well known vocalists?
Graham Bonnet is one of those artist of whom I never get tired of listening to. He has a sound all his own and a power that is limitless.
I wish him the best and hope to one day see him here in the states.

BRANT
www.lungsofiron.com

Hello,

Graham is one of my very favorite singers ever. Luckily I've gotten a chance to see my others here in the NY area i.e. Dio, Glenn Hughes, Tom Jones, Gino Vannelli etc.... some whom I've never thought I'd see live in such a small intimate setting.
The only one singer left who me and my life long pal (whose even a bigger G.B. fan than myself) NEED to see is Mr. Bonnet.
Please tell me that Graham will sometime, somehow, make it to the NY area. I don't care if he's singing torch songs (which actually would be very hip hmmm..) we in the NY area are in need of a visit.

By the way, my buddy and I sometimes talk about covers we'd like to hear singers do and one of our Graham tunes would be
that tune by Johnny Maestro and the Brookly Bridge, I think it's called "Girl I heard your getting married". That would F#$%ing RULE!!!! Graham would tear that up!!!
BTW, Underground and The day I went mad are great!! Can't wait for the next.

Thanx and good luck with everything,

Russ Wilson

Dear Mr. Bonnet,

Thanks so much for the great music over the years. I have spent the last 4 hours remastering this old cassette of you with Rainbow, a radio broadcast from Calderone Concert Hall Long Island, NY 11/30/79, and you are excellent on it! (with the exception of being slightly flat on the first phrase of Eyes of the World.) (But that one phrase is a pleasure when I hear Roger Glover's back up vocals! Yikes!) I am a "sick" nut to have spent so long on this but with today's technology one can do a lot to improve upon an analog cassette! As far as I know and with the exception of the two cuts on that hard-to-find Castle Doinnington LP this is the best show out there on you guys. I really feel this line up of Rainbow was under-represented, and had a really neat kind of "English" feel.
Anyway, I have followed you a great deal and wanted you to know that you are a great talent!
Thanks,
Jeff, Phoenix Arizona

Hi Graham, how are you? This is Barry Sparks. I play bass for Michael Schenker, Uli Roth. I am getting ready to tour the UK with Uli supporting UFO.  Your buddy Don Airey is also playing with us. He is one amazing musician I must say! Well, I just wanted to say hi! If you ever need some bass, LET'S ROCK!
All the best to you!
BARRY SPARKS www.barrysparks.com

G'day to you Mr. Bonnet, I trust life is treating you and yours well.I'm sending this hello from Australia. I've been a fan of your ass kicking vocals for many years and "Baby Blue", "Since You've Been Gone" & "All Night Long" would be 3 of my favourite songs of yours. ( Obviously the last 2 being from when you were with the great "Rainbow ". I heard "Baby Blue" on a local radio station the other night and thought to myself ...'Damn that's a great old song'. and that's what prompted me to look you up on the internet. I am a drummer in a 3 piece cover band. ( C'mon Graham no drummer gags Buddy. ) And I love most of the REAL music of the 50's , 60's & the fantastic 70's we play lots of Beatles, Roy O' , Van ( as in Morrison not Halen )  & Stones etc'. We don't do any of your stuff simply because our vocalist, although good,  just hasn't got the balls to do it justice. Anyway gotta go now. Take care mate. 
Rob Christian

Hello!
Back in 80 - 85 me & my band did a lot of Rainbow / Purple, and fell in love with GB's "Line Up". We picked up some of his tracks, and loved to perform them.
Still can remember staying drunk till Sunday morning, and GB loudly playing, while the sun was rising. Thank Graham for making those unforgettable moments stronger!

K.R,
Trygve Johannesen, Norway

Hello!
Dear Graham Bonnet!
You are my favourite singer from 1982 y. since I began listen music (it was Deep Purple, Live in Japan 1972 y).
 
Happy birthday! Many happy returns of the day!
 
Sorry, I don't know what is this date rightly?! By News from Hardradio it will 23th December, but from page "Jman847' Page" it was 12th December in Skegness (England).
I very like your the silver voice with a beautiful palette.
Yesterday I'd order your video-record of the concert "Alcatrazz" with Steve Vai "Live Tokyo".
It is the very rare video in the world.
How to order your solo CDs: 1977,1978 and with Erik Silvester (Schlager perlenn3, is it you?)?
     
Yours sincerely,
Sergey Melnikov, fan from Russia    

From "John"

My memory of Graham goes back to the very early days of MTV when M still stood for M-usic, and NOT for M-ediocre Teen Soap Opera Channel!  This was our first chance to actually see what the guys on our records (vinyl) looked like.  When the video for "All Night Long" was played... the things that stuck in my mind were the girl of course....and then of Graham in his sunglasses(mirrored?)flipping them up to check out the babe, and that distinctive hairstyle, distinctive voice.  I don't know where this memory has been tucked away for GOD-almost 20 years now, but now I'm craving a way to see that video again!  It would be great for some of us older guys to see like the first year or two of MTV re-broadcast, or made available on
VHS/DVD...then we could see this video again, along with those other rare videos of Tarney Spencer's "No Time To Lose", The Shoes, Pat Benatar's earliest stuff...   What does everyone think?  I also wonder who the girl in the "All Night Long" video was...????

Thanks for listening!

John

please come to Australia. I think you have the most awesome voice I have ever heard. my 2 favourite songs are warm ride and its all over now baby blue. fanbloodytastic mate.
love
Yvette Willey
Queensland Australia

Hello. Let me say 1st of all that I'm glad to see there's such a cool Bonnet site. I've been a Bonnet fan since the release of Rainbow-Down To Earth. The most powerful voice in rock shook me to my soul! I had
always wanted to be a rock vocalist, since I was very young. But I had no idea I wanted it so bad until I heard Graham sing. I practiced for years, hoping to one day achieve the status of such a rock solid vocalist as Graham. Even the unique name of "Graham" inspired me to name my son the same, he just turned 10 this past December.

I met Graham for a brief instant when I saw Alcatrazz in Memphis,TN. on the "No Parole" tour. After the show he and Gary Shea came out in the crowd and I walked up to him to tell him I was a vocalist also and let him know he was an inspiration to me, out of respect I called him "Mr.Bonnet" and he put his hand on my shoulder, told me to call him Graham and said "the world needs more singers". Then he signed
a ragged piece of paper I had crumpled in my pocket in hopes of getting his autograph but never thinking I would actually meet him. I still have it.

Well that's it. Not very exciting to anyone else but that day has stuck with me for years. I wish I could say I've achieved vocal success, but a few years ago I got pneumonia in both lungs and the coughing tore my
throat to shreds and I've had serious lung problems since. Unrealized dreams haunt me every day, I'm just glad I can still hear the great music Graham puts out. Keep on Rockin' Bro.
Brian Vickers
bvickers@pchnet.com

hi there,

i really must let you know that i'm MADLY IN LOVE with that GORGEOUS VOICE of ... guess who?! since i recently opened my ears to it (the girl can't help it, but - despite the age of 36 - she's a regular late-bloomer), there is still a lot to discover for me! so just hold your horses where recording
cd's is concerned... bet you don't hear that one every day!

any chance of touring my country (the netherlands aka holland) in the near future???

graham, thanks for a great voice & keep singin' !

helen

From : "Ruffin" <ruffin@san.rr.com>

I don't really have any GB stories, just wanted to say that instead of God Bless Video it should be God Bless the Internet (and maybe Japan), because that's the only way I can get my Graham Bonnet fix. I've liked you since Alcatrazz - loved the hell out of Disturbing the Peace and Dangerous Games, though at the time I was a callow youth and not really into noticing who was actually in a band, so I had no idea who you were. I didn't even know who the heck Yngwie Malmsteen was, and went and dug up No Parole for your voice, not his guitar playing.

One thing led to another which led to Rainbow, and then the Impelliteri CD, where I first noticed you as an entity unto yourself and started tracking anything you were in. Now it's to the point where I'm paying $30 for
Japanese imports and consider it a good deal. Given my background, I prefer tracks like Flying not Falling, but your voice carries epic or strutty very well too. Frankly, I'm not sure how you sing like that without your throat being constantly raw.

Glad to hear you're working with Impelliteri again, and could I beg for a discography on the site? I knew about MSG, and have the solo stuff like Lineup and No Bad Habits, but had no idea about Wind in the Willows or the Marbles until recently. And I'd give my left nut for some Forcefield and Blackthorne CDs. Keep those pipes going!

Hello Graham, (?)

I just heard "Since You've Been Gone" for the first time on a Seventies compilation that I picked up while in London last week, and it brought back memories of how great it was when I first heard it.

I always thought Graham brought a certain style to "Rainbow" - ( with Cozy - God Bless Him - and Glover this was the best by far Rainbow lineup) much more than Dio...and was saddened when he left after only one album - and as great as it was. Were there differences with the always volatile (yet fun) Ritchie?

Will Graham do any further gigs in LA? Especially at the Teaszer or HOB...I would have loved to attend if I had known.

Oh one more thing. I'm on a Small Faces/Humble Pie website, and if Graham sees  this he might either feel honored or amused to learn that he was on a shortlist by fans to be a frontman in the reformed Humble Pie (along with John Waite, amongst others).

Glad to see a Graham Bonnet website.No mention of the album done under Ringo's auspices though.

Cheers,
Alan Rockman
Upland California

Graham

Received the 'Mad' CD that I ordered a few weeks ago (just before my summer holidays). Sounds great - many thanks for taking the time to sign it for me. Very cool.

I have tried to keep up with your more recent releases and have been pleasantly surprised by the diversity of material and styles on you last few CDs (esp. Underground).

I am very much looking forward to the fruits of your latest collaboration with Herr Schenker.

Cheers
Andy

P.S. Any chance of UK gigs in the future ? I saw you at the awesome Donnington Monsters of Rock in 1980 with R'bow. Shame that the MSG thing at Reading did not work out for you, as Assault Attack was such a strong CD. Anyway, hope to catch you this millennium !

andy.rawll@madge.com
London UK

For your forum, and for Graham himself:

Oh my goodness! What a voice this man has.  As a long time metal singer myself I hold Graham very high on my list, with only Rob Halford as company with him in that rarified air.  I tell friends about Graham constantly, and describe his voice as a "chain saw dipped in honey". 

The most amazing thing to me, about Graham's stellar voice is his ability to slide into falsetto in his upper register, without you ever really hearing the switch.  I've worked at it for years and it's devilishly hard to do, to sing in mixed voice properly and smoothly. Few people in any musical style can do it as well as Graham.  You hear him singing in a lower register, in chest voice, then he keeps going up, up, up, and you're hearing this amazing high note and saying to yourself, "Good Lord- where did this guy COME from??

I'm so glad to come across this web site, or I would have had to make one myself, I dig his voice that much.  My musician friends never fail to be blown away when I play them "Jet to Jet".  I am going out today to buy this new album!

Thanks for all the great sounds Graham, your voice is very unique and unmistakable.   When you were born, God turned your vocal cords into a thunderbolt.  I'm so glad I have your music to bring me joy when I need it.

Your admirer forever,
Ardra Evenstar

Dear Graham:

I have just gotten back to cool Seattle, and am writing this message with my wholehearted thanks to you, Kevin, Tim, and John. Kazutaka (my friend from Tokyo) is a reticent guy, but he later told me that he was so touched to see his all-time idol Graham live and was moved to tears. I also feel as if I were still in a dream. :-)

Kazutaka and I really enjoyed the gig. The setlist was wonderful! "Spiked", "Don't Look Down", "S.O.S.", and fabulous "Oh, Darling" were all big surprise, and I hope to hear "Dancer" again in Tokyo soon. We understand that your voice was not yet in your best shape, but it was really great to hear "the voice" again. The band was great, too. We were honored to have chance to speak with you, thanks to Kevin's arrangement. Kazutaka said to me that he really wished he could speak in English well, and that you were so nice as he had imagined. In Japan, it is hard to imagine that fans can speak with their favorite foreign musicians for such a long time, because there is a language barrier and too much idolization. I believe Kazutaka is the most enthusiastic GB fan in Japan, but he had never had chance to be such close to you like that. So I was really happy that I could help him to come here and communicate with you.

It is always wonderful that we continued to be able to hear your GREAT voice through great music. I wish the great success of the Anthem tour as well as the next solo album. We were very excited to hear that you would sing some Schenker songs again. I really look forward to seeing you again soon in Tokyo! Kazutaka and I will be there. Please also say hello to Kevin, John and Tim.

with my best wishes
Masaya

Hi Graham, I've been a fan of yours' since the MSG days. Thanx for the good sounds on " the day I went mad " (with your autograph) CD.......I really enjoy it and am looking forward for the next CD soon.....thanks again and congratulations on the  newborn.......
Thanx again,
Ken Weindl in NJ
Bobcat1000@aol.com

Richard Ayers wrote,

I believe Graham is a fascinating singer and song writer. I can remember when MTV was very young. The first time I heard Graham sing "All Night Long", I was hooked from then on. I have always admired him for not letting his hair grow out and changing his stage attire for Richie Blackmore. Then and even now, most bands look and sound alike. Graham was different. Graham's voice is one of a kind. I think that he could sing anything he wanted to. I'm fortunate to own some of Graham's early work. He does a cover of Bob Dylan's "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue" that will blow you away.

I'm still waiting for him to do remake of that song someday. I would love to hear him do one of those "Unplugged" sessions. Graham Bonnet has meant a lot to me over the years. I met him in Atlanta during the "Dangerous Games" tour. I think I got there about two hours before the show started. I walked in (this was one of those big bars that held concerts). I sat down, and looked over to my left, and Graham Bonnet was standing there. I when up to him a introduce myself. We sat down and had a 30 minute talk. A very nice guy, real easy to talk with. I asked him to explain the songs "Will You Be Home Tonight" and "Breaking The Heart Of The City" and what was he meaning in writing them. We had a great conversion. I'm glad to see your webpage. The man deserves every bit a recognition. I'm very glad that Graham is still producing CD's.

Thanks,
Richard Ayers

Mark Bishop wrote:

>> Stumbled upon your website, very nice!!! I had the pleasure to have met Graham outside of Baltimore back in 1986, while he was in Alcatrazz w\ Danny Johnson. That night Danny cut his hand on his guitar on the first song, played through the set, and a associate of mine took him to the hospital to have his hand stitched up. I was very impressed not only with Graham's performance vocally, but his personality off the stage.

I'm a former disc jockey from Baltimore, and I worked for several major rock stations there. I've met, interviewed, and introduced on stage many major artists and bands in my time. I was particularly impressed with Graham Bonnet. For being as talented as he is, he was very down-to-earth, not knowing who I was or who I worked for. One guy came to him with I know had to have been every album he was ever on (a stack at least 25 or more) he sat there for about an hour and signed EVERY SINGE ONE! Even adding his own notes on each cover. Definitely won the "CLASSIEST ROCK ARTIST" award in my book! He even put me and two friends on the "guest list" for his show in Washington D.C.the following night. I hope everything is well with him. Please send me a follow up. In an entertainment world where you meet and have to deal with TONS OF JERKS, it's nice to know there's guys like Graham Bonnet out there!

Hi there!
WOW! Excellent site! I'm VERY happy to see an official Graham Bonnet web site! I'm also glad to see the contact mail is on my server, Earthlink! I've been a fan of Grahams since I was a teen in the mid eighties and I'm still a true believer! Not only does he have the best voice in rock & roll but, Graham has served as an inspiration for me on many occasions. He was truly the first singer / songwriter to push the envelope in the hard rock community. When many of my friends were listening to pointless party anthems of big hair bands, I had Alcatrazz and Impellitteri (Stand in Line was the very first CD I ever bought) to save me from the monotony. I really mean this too! "Hiroshima Mon Amour", "God Blessed Video", White and Perfect", "Too Young to Die, Too Drunk To Live" and so many other songs cut through all the cock rock B.S. of the time. There were also times when I would be pretty down as a teen and I'd throw on my copy of No Parole From Rock and Roll , Stand In Line , Dangerous Games, Down to Earth or whatever, and I'd feel energized and inspired (I grew up in a really depressing Ohio town!). Now I'm 28, married to a wonderful woman and live in Cleveland, Ohio (Home of the R&R Hall of Fame... We're saving room for Graham!). I can't say, "Graham Bonnet made me the man I am today!", but I can say the positive influence of his genuine creativity and uniqueness played a pivotal role in saving me from the apathy and mediocrity of my old home town. Grahams music made me understand that there is always something better. Something more to be achieved. Never stop, keep going, keep growing. This may sound really corny, but I mean every kernel infested word of it. Graham has contributed so much and I really wanted him to know that his music is, and will always be, my favorite. No matter what band or musicians Mr. Bonnet leads, it is always his voice, lyrics and choice of material that draws me in. Anyway, I can sum this whole run-on paragraph up by saying this... Graham, thanks for being there and being you.....
Well, I'll wrap it up for now.

Thanks a million,
Ken Picklesimer
elfykins@earthlink.net