50 Years of Jethro Tull

However you look at it, 50 years is a sizable chunk of time, to say the least ! December 1968 was spent furiously rehearsing the music that would become the album 'Stand Up'.

We were locked in a grotty basement club in Soho, London and on a diet of hot tea and cheese and tomato sandwiches, we four musicians, aka, Jethro Tull, got to know each other a little better and finally testing the water, went on tour to debut the "new" music. At first the blues fans that traditionally followed Tull, weren't at all sure of the change but, slowly they got caught up in the beginnings of something they realised was very different and possibly very special. From 1969 onwards, we toured Europe, Scandinavia, the UK, USA and onwards to Australia, New Zealand, Japan, as well as every territory that welcomed western rock music and especially those who invited Jethro Tull. Many times, we were the first rock band into a country, as we always looked for new experiences and unknown areas to explore with new fans to be won !!! It was an incredibly rewarding time. We were young and hungry for music... We were full of energy and determination. Every year saw new albums, changes in musical direction and bigger and better shows. To highlight any one show or any particular album does an injustice to the others. We were riding the crest of a wave and finally we were rewarded a Grammy for all this immense body of work and commitment. Sadly in 2011, Ian took the decision to disband Tull and concentrate on his solo career. So, after a period of writing new music and careful planning, I returned to the 'Road' touring and recording with the same vigor and belief that we had all shown in the early years. My respect and love of Tull's musical heritage has inspired me to keep alive our huge repertoire but without turning my back on my love of writing my own music. Personally... I'm looking forward to year 51 and beyond Thank you ! Martin Barre