Paul Barrett, Charlie Gracie’s exclusive European agent of 40 years passed away on January 20.
Paul, based in Cardiff, Wales was perhaps the leading purveyor of Roots Rock & Roll and Rockabilly in the UK and throughout Europe.
He became Charlie Gracie’s agent in 1979 and created more than 40 UK tours for the PHILLY ROCKER, plus dozens more in France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Belgium, Finland, Sweden and Switzerland.
Charlie completed a tour for Paul just last month where the two met up at the BAWA Club in Bristol.
A message from Charlie Gracie said “Joan and I were stunned and deeply heartbroken when we received the call from Lorraine, Paul’s wonderful and devoted wife on Sunday”.
“Our love and deepest sympathy go out to her, their son Lincoln, daughter Shelly and the entire family. This is a great personal loss—not just a professional one”.
“Paul and Lorraine have become extended family members. His loss will create an enormous void for all of us—and many of you as well. In a field where integrity is often lacking, Paul had always been an Honest, steady, and straight-shooting broker—rare qualities in the music business”.
“I considered myself blessed to have him in my corner these last 40 years! Paul always looked out for me in a protective manner, for which I am eternally grateful. Paul was always a gentleman to Joan and me. We were friends who shared a deep mutual respect and trust”.
“We sure had a lot of fun and laughs along the way too. thank God we had a chance to visit once more on my UK show tour last month at the Bawa Club in Bristol, England. 2019 marks my 69th year as an Entertainer and Recording Artist”.
“Paul Barrett and the late Bernie Rothbard, my US agent for 38 years, were a major part of that story. In fact, it was Bernie who recommended Paul to manage my overseas affairs—having seen those great qualities I mentioned earlier…and which both men possessed! ”
“Thank you, dear friends. I will carry the memory of you with me to every gig throughout whatever time the Good Lord allows me. With tears and love, Charlie and Joan”.