PETE 'KIWI' KEEGAN veteran american folk musician. Bluegrass,skiffle & blues

             FRANKIE LAINE              

Pete first heard Frankie in the early 50's on the radio where his No 1 hit 'Jezzabel' was often played. But was 'Cool water' and especially 'I believe' which had a profound effect on him as he hummed and sang the songs riding round New Cross, south London on his bike. Because Pete's father had left the the family home when Pete was only  10 years of age, it left him with a desperate need for some direction and ebcouragement in his young life. He found Frankie's warm voice and true coviction coming over and helping him to cope. Many  years later, Peter wrote to Frankie following the sad death of his dear wife Nan Gray. Below is a copy of Frankie's lovely reply. ( This exchange resulted in a correspondance between Peter & Frankie, that went on for a number of years. Pete went to see Frankie at the London Palladium live in 1957 and since then has always loved to listen to his lovely songs. Pete loves to include 'Lucky old Sun' & 'High noon' in his programmes. If the mood is right he will also sing 'I believe' ( which is in the guiness book of records as being in the charts ( 'Hit parade' as it was called in the 1950's) for the longest number of weeks. Frankie's voice was, strong, full of emotion & conviction. He was not only a wonderful singer, but a really genuine person, with a deep faith and love for people. He gave to many charites in the U.S.A. Pete is proud to have known Frankie and to have received lovely letters from him. God bless you Frankie!