Only you - Flying Pickets

The Flying Pickets came up with the then novel concept of transferring the art of a cappella to the pop music scene. The members of the group were internationally renowned for their flamboyant appearance: Hibbard's huge sideburns, Stripe's thick eye-liner, and four others showing off gaudy suits and large hats.

'Only you', their debut single, was a cover of the track by Yazoo and became the UK Christmas number one in 1983, spending a total of five weeks at the top, and also doing well around Europe and in Canada.

My collection: 7" single no. 5062
Found: Record fair, Utrecht, April 9, 2011
Cost: 1 euro
Tracks: 'Only you' / 'Disco down'

Who's that girl - The Flying Pickets

My friend Puck, who's into acapella stuff, will be delighted to hear this version of the Eurythmics' hit single 'Who's that girl'. The Flying Pickets had a hit with an acapella version of Yazoo's 'Only you' in 1984, and followed it up with this single. It was not a hit, although it was equally inventive.

The band of six was founded by Brian Hibbard in 1982. The group chose the name The Flying Pickets as band members had played a part in the UK miners strikes of 1972 and 1974. The Flying Pickets came up with the then novel concept of perfoming contemporary pop hits in acapella versions. The height of the group's fame coincided with the 1984 Miners Strike. The Flying Pickets were very vocal in their support of the miners during the dispute and came to blows with the record label Virgin after they picketed Drax Power Station in Yorkshire. They also performed benefit gigs for the miners. Hibbard himself claimed that their political beliefs probably had a detrimental effect regarding the group's mainstream image but it was a sacrifice they were willing to make.

My collection: 7" single no. 4940
Found: Velvet Vinyl Outlet, Leiden, October 8, 2010
Cost: 1 euro
Tracks: 'Who's that girl' / 'Remember this (Jara mix)'