Recording session was on the way at the popular Fillmore

The Fillmore’s next big event comes when, for the first time in Sunderland, a “live” recording will be made for a group’s next album.

The group is Free and they plan to record sufficient numbers to fill one side of their next album for the Island label, according to the Sunderland Echo’s music correspondent at the time.

Free’s members are Paul Rodgers (lead guitar), Paul Kossoff (vocals), Simon Kirke (drums), and Andy Fraser (bass guitar).

“They don’t like to label their sound, but they won’t argue if it is termed “bluesbased” Free music,” said our writer.

“This harddriving foursome, who have won fans all over Britain and in the US where they toured with Blind Faith, can already be heard on two find Island albums, “Free” and “Tons of Sobs.”

Added attraction of their next LP will be the sounds of Fillmore fans enjoying Free music in Wearside. Other live acts in Sunderland at the time included The Georgia Quintet at the Mecca Bowl, Jefferson at Wetherells and Tali and the Marvettes at Ro-Koko. What are your memories of the Sunderland music scene in the 1970s? Get in touch by emailing