Frederick Heath

Known as Johnny Kidd
Born in Willesden, London on 23 December 1935 and died in a car accident near Breightmet, Lancashire on 8 October 1966 (aged 30).
By the 1950's Heath had become immersed in the skiffle craze and having progressed from banjo to guitar, formed his own group, . (washboard), (bass) and (snare drum) were among those featured in the line up which played at many local venues and talent contests, but the unit quickly outgrew the genre's limitations and a local agent , suggested that Heath should front a rock 'n' roll band. 'The Freddie Heath Combo' was a short lived affair & in 1958 the singer & his bassist, Johnny Gordon, joined another group at that time led by . This particular act enjoyed a resident spot at Wandsworth Town Hall, but when it became clear that Heath was a superior vocalist, the newcomer became its undisputed focal point. (lead guitar), rhythm guitar), (drums) & (backing vocals) completed the line up which was spotted by a local rep. from EMI. A contract with HMV ensued & the group - now dubbed Johnny Kidd & the Pirates - entered Abbey Road Studio in April 1959 to record its first single.