In the 1980s Johnny Tillotson appeared in a rock’n’roll package show in Woking. When I approached him afterwards in the merchandise area he was chatting away and signing autographs. He exclaimed: “Hey, man, I love your jacket! Where did you get it?”
The cheap but silky purple garment came from Millets, the outdoor clothing shop, as I explained to Johnny, much to the amusement of the gathering crowd. The idea of a rock’n’roll star like Johnny knowing about such an outlet prompted scathing remarks from some listeners. Johnny picked up on what was happening and, consistent with his generally good-natured air, responded: “Well, man, I just love your jacket, it’s really cool!”
