The Heartbeat of Bradford's Music Scene
When Bradford Rocked 1954 - 1966, celebrates the rich musical rock n' roll heritage of Bradford.
Welcome to When Bradford Rocked, your ultimate destination for exploring the vibrant musical history of Bradford. Our website delves into the stories of legendary artists and unforgettable performances that have shaped the local music scene. From iconic venues to grassroots movements, we aim to capture the essence of Bradford's contribution to the world of music.
Whether you're a lifelong resident or a curious visitor, you'll find a wealth of information, articles, and interviews that highlight the diversity and talent of our musicians.
Join us as we celebrate the sounds that have rocked our city and continue to inspire future generations.
Book launch 2012
This website is based on the books 'When Bradford Rocked' published in 2012 and 'Bradford's Rock and Roll'- The Golden Years' published in 1991.
We decided to create this website as there is still a demand for the original book which is sadly, no longer in print.
As Bradford will become the City of Culture in 2025 we felt it would be worthwhile to make the book available in the best way we could and that's why we have created this website to keep the legacy of the groups and singers who performed in Bradford over many years. Some rose to fame like Kiki Dee, Alan Holdsworth, John Verity, Sammy King and Richard Harding. Plus many more!
When Bradford Rocked was developed from Derek's first book 'Bradford's Rock n' Roll', published in 1991 and followed by two other very successful books 'Bradford's' Own and 'Bradford Born & Bred'. Sadly, none are still in print. Who knows? We might create websites for both and make them accessible to interested people!
You have full access to the book 'When Bradford Rocked', so if you know people who were involved during Bradford's rock n' roll era you can find their biographies on The Groups page.
Enjoy the website and enjoy the memories. For the best website experience it's best viewed on a large screen.
Derek & Reuben
As with both books, every effort was made to contact and credit everybody who supplied pictures and music. If we have missed anybody, please let us know via the Contact page on this site.
Derek & Reuben
Other books by derek a j lister
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
My first book published in 1991 is now out of print, in fact, it is something of a collector's item, some showing on the internet at over £100. With this success, I knew at the time it was too condensed so that encouraged me to write "When Bradford Rocked" 20 years later in 2012.
Bradford's Own
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
'Bradford's Own' was published in 2004 as a compilation of 147 of Bradford's sons and daughters past and present over 150 Years. Including, sports, actors, politicians, TV stars, artists, wool barons, authors, and comedians. It also includes Bradford's four Victoria Cross recipients.
Sadly, it is now out of print but you can read the original book below.
Bradford Born and Bred
Bradford's Rock n' Roll The Golden Years
Bradford Born and Bred
'Bradford Born and Bred' was published in 2009. It is about my life from 1938, as a child, as a teenager, and my family. All led to my call up for National Service aged 18.