IN a music world dominated by young pop stars one man has shown it is still possible to give them a run for the money even when you are enjoying the later years of life.

By Jo Macdonald

IN a music world dominated by young pop stars one man has shown it is still possible to give them a run for the money even when you are enjoying the later years of life.

That man is Gordon Haskell.

He re-emerged on the scene last year, narrowly missing the Christmas number one spot with his hit single How Wonderful You Are, and success has continued ever since.

His new single, There Goes My Heart Again, was released yesterday > and later this month he embarks on a nationwide tour which brings him to Ipswich on May 9.

Though widespread solo success is a relatively new experience for Gordon, his work in the music industry stretches back to the 1960s.

As a member of cult band The Fleur De Lys, he scored a hit with the single Hold On. He was also part of King Crimson, played bass for Cliff Richard, jammed with Jimi Hendrix and appeared with Otis Redding.

He fast gained a reputation as a great singer/songwriter and was lauded by DJ Kid Jensen in 1971 as one of the UK's brightest musical hopes.

Despite his standing in the industry, however, most people could have been forgiven for not knowing his name – that is until the end of 2001.

His single, How Wonderful You Are, became the surprise competition to Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman's bid for the much sought after Christmas number one spot.

It surpassed The Beatles' Hey Jude and Frank Sinatra's My Way to become the most requested record in BBC Radio 2 history.

Surprisingly, while thousands and millions of pounds are pumped into the releases of today's music stars Gordon's single was produced with a budget of just £200, released through independent label, Flying Sparks, and packaged out to radio stations in a vintage 45rpm sleeve.

He has since signed to eastwest records and released the hugely successful album, Harry's Bar, which debuted at number two.

And now he is taking to the road on a 30-date tour of the UK, which kicks off on April 28.

With rising star Oliver Darley providing the support, Gordon will arrive at Ipswich Regent on May 9.

Tickets for the concert are on sale now, priced £17.50 and £15.50, but The Evening Star has got two pairs of tickets for the show to give away.

To be in with a chance of winning, answer the following question:

Gordon Haskell narrowly missed a Christmas number one with which single?

Send your answers, by April 19, to Gordon Haskell Competition, c/o Jo Macdonald, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN.

N To book tickets for Gordon Haskell at Ipswich Regent on May 9 visit the Central Box Office, Princes Street, Ipswich, call 01473 433100 or visit www.ipswich-ents.co.uk

Weblink: www.haskell.co.uk