A journalist and author from Milton Keynes is writing a definitive history of the Milton Keynes Bowl – and she wants your memories for inclusion.
Sammy Jones has been a journalist in the new city for more than three decades, specialising in music and entertainment.
In 2021 she delivered the hugely successful book, Milton Keynes – Wired For Sound, which explored the history of the local music scene.
This time the spotlight is focused solely on the 65,000 capacity venue which has welcomed monsters of rock including Queen, Foo Fighters and Black Sabbath, aces David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Take That and Robbie Williams and dance deliverers Swedish House Mafia and Pendulum.
“It is such an important venue, not just locally, but nationally and internationally,” Sammy said, “Many of the artists who have played there have fond specific memories, and the venue is a beacon in Milton Keynes. A book charting its history, and bringing together memories from those artists who have graced its stage, was long overdue.
“But the Bowl is very much our venue, and I want to share the memories and anecdotes of city residents who remember shows there for specific reasons – maybe you met the love of your life while watching Green Day, remember getting plastered in the mud bath when U2 played, or perhaps you got so drunk that you don’t remember anything at all!
“Whatever you recall, I would love you to share with me.”
Sammy – who also runs the Milton Keynes Music Archive – is also interested in any photos and memorabilia you might have from any of those shows.
You’ll be in great company too; artists that have already contributed include Foo Fighters, Queen’s Brian May, Bon Jovi, Megadeth, Billy Bragg, Francis Rossi from Status Quo, and Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach.
“I’ve been fortunate that so many people have been happy to share their recollections of playing the venue with me, and I have some awesome never before seen images, too.
“The Bowl is a jewel in the crown of Milton Keynes and the book is a wonderful way to capture that history for everyone to enjoy. But this isn’t just about those who have played on its stage – it’s about everyone who has enjoyed time there.”
Send your submissions to freelancesammy@googlemail.com or through FB: @miltonkeyneswiredforsound
