Who was Josef Locke, and what was his primary profession and period of success?

Josef Locke, born Joseph McLaughlin, was an Irish tenor who achieved significant success in the United Kingdom and Ireland during the 1940s and 1950s. He was known for his distinctive voice and popular repertoire.

What was Josef Locke's birth name, date of birth, and place of birth?

Josef Locke was born Joseph McLaughlin on March 23, 1917, in Derry, Ireland.

When and where did Josef Locke pass away?

Josef Locke died on October 15, 1999, at the age of 82, in Clane, County Kildare, Ireland.

What was Josef Locke's well-known nickname?

Josef Locke was widely known by the nickname "The Singing Bobby," a reference to his time serving in the police force.

What was Josef Locke's family background, including his father's occupation and number of siblings?

Josef Locke was born into a family of nine children, and his father worked as a butcher and cattle dealer in Derry, Ireland.

At what age did Josef Locke begin singing, and where did he first perform?

Josef Locke started singing at the young age of seven in local churches located in the Bogside area of Derry.

How did Joseph McLaughlin become known as Josef Locke, and who was instrumental in this change?

The renowned Irish tenor John McCormack advised McLaughlin that his voice was better suited to a lighter repertoire rather than the operatic style Locke initially envisioned. McCormack also encouraged him to seek professional representation, leading him to impresario Jack Hylton. Hylton shortened his name to Josef Locke because the full name Joseph McLaughlin was too long for the billing.

What was the significance of the summer show "Starry Way" for Josef Locke's career in 1946?

In 1946, Josef Locke made a significant impact when he was featured in *Starry Way*, a summer show at the Blackpool Opera House. This engagement was so successful that he was rebooked for the following summer, marking a key step in his rise to prominence.

Where did Josef Locke perform summer seasons and for how long did he appear in Blackpool?

Josef Locke performed summer seasons in English seaside resorts and appeared in ten Blackpool seasons between 1946 and 1969. This is fewer than the nineteen seasons he later claimed.

When did Josef Locke make his first radio broadcast, and what television programs did he feature in?

Josef Locke made his debut radio broadcast in 1949. He subsequently appeared on television shows such as *Rooftop Rendezvous*, *Top of the Town*, *All-star Bill*, and *The Frankie Howerd Show*.

Which record label signed Josef Locke, and what were his initial musical releases?

Josef Locke was signed to the Columbia label in 1947. His first recordings released were the Italian songs *Santa Lucia* and *Come Back to Sorrento*.

What song became indelibly associated with Josef Locke, and what is its origin?

The song *Hear My Song, Violetta*, released in 1947, became forever associated with Josef Locke. This popular tune originated from a 1936 tango titled *Hör' mein Lied, Violetta* by Othmar Klose and Rudolf Lukesch.

What is the musical connection between *Hör' mein Lied, Violetta* and Giuseppe Verdi's work?

The song *Hör' mein Lied, Violetta*, which inspired Josef Locke's hit *Hear My Song, Violetta*, was itself based on Giuseppe Verdi's opera *La Traviata*. This demonstrates a link between popular music and classical compositions.

Can you list some of the popular Irish ballads that Josef Locke included in his repertoire?

Josef Locke's repertoire featured several beloved Irish ballads, including *I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen*, *Dear Old Donegal*, *Galway Bay*, and *The Isle of Innisfree*. He also sang *The Rose of Slievenamon*, a song by Dick Farrelly.

Beyond Irish ballads, what other types of music did Josef Locke perform, and can you provide examples?

In addition to Irish ballads, Josef Locke performed excerpts from operettas and familiar popular favorites. Examples of operetta pieces include *The Drinking Song* from *The Student Prince* and *My Heart and I* from Richard Tauber's operetta *Old Chelsea*. Popular favorites included *I'll Walk Beside You*, *Come Back to Sorrento*, and *Cara Mia*.

In what capacity did Josef Locke appear in films produced by Mancunian Films?

In 1948, Josef Locke appeared in several films produced by Mancunian Films, typically portraying himself. He played himself in the film *Holidays with Pay* and also appeared as "Sergeant Locke" in the 1949 comedy *What a Carry On!*.

What circumstances led Josef Locke to flee the United Kingdom in 1958?

In 1958, Josef Locke fled the UK for Ireland because the British tax authorities began making substantial demands for unpaid taxes, which he declined to meet. This occurred while he was still at the height of his career.

How did Josef Locke eventually relaunch his career after his tax issues?

After his differences with the tax authorities were settled, Josef Locke relaunched his career in England. He undertook tours of northern variety clubs and performed summer seasons at Blackpool's Queen's Theatre in 1968 and 1969.

What significant television tributes did Josef Locke receive later in his career?

Later in his career, Josef Locke received significant television recognition. In November 1984, he was honored with a lengthy tribute on *The Late Late Show* hosted by Gay Byrne in Ireland, coinciding with an award he was set to receive at the Olympia theatre. He also made numerous appearances on the BBC TV show *The Good Old Days*.

What was the premise of the 1991 film *Hear My Song* that was based on Josef Locke's life?

The 1991 film *Hear My Song*, directed by Peter Chelsom, is a fictionalized account based on the idea of Josef Locke returning from his Irish exile in the 1960s. The plot involves him rekindling an old love affair and attempting to save a Liverpool-based Irish nightclub from financial ruin.

Who portrayed Josef Locke in the film *Hear My Song*, and whose voice was used for the singing parts?

In the film *Hear My Song*, the actor Ned Beatty played Josef Locke. The singing voice for the character was provided by Vernon Midgley.

How did the release of the film *Hear My Song* impact Josef Locke's career?

The film *Hear My Song* sparked a revival in Josef Locke's career. Following its release, a compilation CD of his music was issued, and he was featured on the UK television program *This Is Your Life* in March 1992.

What marked Josef Locke's final public performance, and what song did he sing?

Josef Locke's final public appearance was at the 1992 Royal Variety Show. He sang *Goodbye*, a song featured in the film *Hear My Song*, and announced that it would be his last public appearance.

What personal habits contributed to Josef Locke's legal troubles with the UK tax authorities?

Josef Locke was described as an inveterate gambler and tax avoider. These habits led to significant issues with the Inland Revenue, who issued a warrant for his arrest due to his non-payment of taxes.

Where did Josef Locke reside after fleeing the UK, and who survived him?

After leaving the UK, Josef Locke lived in County Kildare, Ireland. He passed away on October 15, 1999, and was survived by his wife, Carmel, and their son.

When and where was a memorial dedicated to Josef Locke unveiled?

A bronze memorial honoring Josef Locke was unveiled on March 22, 2005, outside the City Hotel on Queen's Quay in Derry.

Who were the notable figures involved in the unveiling of Josef Locke's memorial in Derry?

The bronze memorial to Josef Locke in Derry was unveiled by Phil Coulter and John Hume, two prominent figures, signifying the recognition of Locke's cultural impact.

What artistic elements characterize the bronze memorial to Josef Locke in Derry?

The memorial, designed by Terry Quigley, is a spiraling scroll divided by lines representing a musical stave. This spiral symbolizes the flowing melody of a song and is adorned with images from Locke's life, including him in police uniform, Blackpool Tower, Carnegie Hall, and musical notes from *Hear My Song*.

What is the title and publication date of the biography about Josef Locke, and who authored it?

A biography titled *Josef Locke: The People's Tenor*, written by Nuala McAllister Hart, was published in March 2017. The publication coincided with the centenary of Locke's birth.

What was the purpose of the biography *Josef Locke: The People's Tenor*?

The biography *Josef Locke: The People's Tenor* aimed to correct many of the myths that Josef Locke himself had circulated about his career, providing a more accurate account of his life and achievements.

What are Josef Locke's real name and profession?

Josef Locke's real name was Joseph McLaughlin, and he was an Irish tenor singer.

What advice did John McCormack give Josef Locke regarding his singing career?

John McCormack advised Josef Locke that his voice was better suited to a lighter repertoire rather than the operatic style Locke initially envisioned. McCormack also encouraged him to seek professional representation.

How did Josef Locke's career in the police force influence his public persona?

Josef Locke's service in the police force, specifically the Royal Ulster Constabulary, earned him the nickname "The Singing Bobby." This connection to his police background helped establish his public identity before his singing career took off.

What were Josef Locke's early career activities in the UK variety circuit?

After becoming a local celebrity, Josef Locke began working the UK variety circuit. This included performing in summer seasons in English seaside resorts, which helped build his reputation.

What was the significance of *Hear My Song, Violetta* in Josef Locke's discography?

*Hear My Song, Violetta*, released in 1947, became Josef Locke's signature song. It was a major hit and is forever associated with his name and career.

What role did Jack Hylton play in Josef Locke's career?

Jack Hylton was an impresario who became Josef Locke's agent. He booked Locke for performances, and it was Hylton who shortened Joseph McLaughlin's name to Josef Locke for billing purposes.

What were the primary themes or genres of songs Josef Locke was known for singing?

Josef Locke was known for singing a mix of popular ballads, particularly those associated with Ireland, excerpts from operettas, and familiar popular favorites. His repertoire appealed to a broad audience.

What specific film featured Josef Locke playing himself, and what was the film's title?

Josef Locke appeared as himself in the film *Holidays with Pay*, which was produced by Mancunian Films in 1948.

What was Josef Locke's involvement with the Royal Variety Performances?

Josef Locke appeared in five Royal Variety Performances during his career, indicating his significant standing and popularity within the British entertainment industry.

What led to Josef Locke's departure from the UK and his period of "lying low" in Ireland?

Josef Locke left the UK in 1958 due to substantial demands from British tax authorities for unpaid taxes. He went to Ireland and remained out of the public eye for several years until the tax matters were resolved.

What was the nature of Josef Locke's final public performance?

Josef Locke's final public appearance took place at the 1992 Royal Variety Show. He sang *Goodbye*, a song featured in the film *Hear My Song*, and announced that it would be his last public appearance.

What specific details are represented on the bronze memorial to Josef Locke in Derry?

The memorial in Derry features a spiraling scroll symbolizing music, divided by lines representing a musical stave, and adorned with images illustrating key moments in Locke's life. These include depictions of him in police uniform, iconic landmarks like Blackpool Tower and Carnegie Hall, and musical notes from his famous song *Hear My Song*.

What is the significance of the publication of Nuala McAllister Hart's biography of Josef Locke?

The publication of Nuala McAllister Hart's biography, *Josef Locke: The People's Tenor*, in March 2017, marked the centenary of Locke's birth and served to provide a more accurate account of his life by correcting myths he had previously spread.

What were Josef Locke's connections to the film industry beyond his singing career?

Josef Locke appeared in films produced by Mancunian Films, usually playing himself. He was featured in *Holidays with Pay* and also took on the role of "Sergeant Locke" in the 1949 comedy *What a Carry On!*.

What was the context of Josef Locke's appearance on *The Late Late Show* in November 1984?

In November 1984, Josef Locke was honored with a lengthy tribute on *The Late Late Show* hosted by Gay Byrne. This event commemorated his career in show business and coincided with an award he was set to receive at the Olympia theatre.

What is the meaning behind the "spiraling scroll" design of Josef Locke's memorial?

The spiraling scroll design of Josef Locke's memorial in Derry symbolizes the flowing melody of a song, representing his musical career. The division by lines suggests a musical stave.

What specific song's opening lines are depicted on Josef Locke's memorial?

The musical notes depicted on Josef Locke's memorial represent the opening lines of his signature song, *Hear My Song*.

What were Josef Locke's occupations before becoming a famous singer?

Before his singing career, Josef Locke served in the Irish Guards, the Palestine Police Force, and the Royal Ulster Constabulary, earning him the nickname "The Singing Bobby."

What was the nature of Josef Locke's relationship with the British tax authorities?

Josef Locke had a contentious relationship with the British tax authorities due to his failure to pay taxes, which he reportedly avoided. This led to demands from the Inland Revenue and ultimately his flight to Ireland.

Josef Locke Wiki: Josef Locke: The People's Tenor Unveiled

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Background

Early Life in Derry

Born Joseph McLaughlin on March 23, 1917, in Derry, Ireland, Josef Locke hailed from a family rooted in the butcher and cattle dealing trade. He was one of nine children. His musical journey began at a tender age, singing in local churches in the Bogside area from the age of seven. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for his future career.

Service and Transition

As a teenager, Locke demonstrated an early sense of adventure, adding two years to his age to enlist in the Irish Guards. His service later took him abroad with the Palestine Police Force. Upon returning to Ireland in the late 1930s, he joined the Royal Ulster Constabulary, earning him the affectionate moniker "The Singing Bobby."

Career Trajectory

From Local Celebrity to National Stage

Locke first gained recognition as a local celebrity while serving as a police officer. His distinctive voice soon led him to the United Kingdom's variety circuit. Renowned tenor John McCormack recognized Locke's potential, advising him to pursue a lighter repertoire rather than opera and recommending he find an agent. This guidance proved pivotal, leading him to impresario Jack Hylton, who booked him for performances.

Blackpool and Early Success

Hylton's decision to shorten his name from "Joseph McLaughlin" to "Josef Locke" marked the beginning of his professional stage identity. Locke made a significant impact starting in 1946 with a twenty-week summer show at the Blackpool Opera House, a success that led to subsequent bookings and multiple seasons in the popular seaside resort, solidifying his presence in the entertainment landscape.

Radio, Television, and Recordings

Locke's career expanded into broadcast media in 1949 with his first radio appearance. He subsequently featured on popular television programs such as Rooftop Rendezvous, Top of the Town, All-star Bill, and The Frankie Howerd Show. His recording career began in 1947 with the Columbia label, releasing early hits like the Italian songs "Santa Lucia" and "Come Back to Sorrento."

Musical Success

"Hear My Song, Violetta"

The song "Hear My Song, Violetta," released in 1947, became indelibly associated with Josef Locke. This emotive piece, based on a tango melody and drawing inspiration from Giuseppe Verdi's La Traviata, captured the hearts of audiences and became a signature tune for the tenor.

A Rich Repertoire

Locke's repertoire was a beloved blend of sentimental Irish ballads, including "I'll Take You Home Again, Kathleen," "Galway Bay," and "The Isle of Innisfree," alongside popular operetta excerpts like "The Drinking Song" from The Student Prince and familiar favorites such as "Come Back to Sorrento" and "Cara Mia." His performances often evoked deep emotional responses from his listeners.

Tax Troubles and Exile

Despite reaching the peak of his career, appearing in five Royal Variety Performances by 1958, Locke faced significant financial difficulties. Disagreements with British tax authorities led him to flee the country and reside in Ireland for several years. After eventually settling his tax affairs, he successfully relaunched his career with tours and performances.

Screen Appearances

Film Roles

In 1948, Josef Locke appeared in several films produced by Mancunian Films, often portraying himself. Notable appearances include a role in the film Holidays with Pay and as "Sergeant Locke" in the 1949 comedy What a Carry On!.

The Film "Hear My Song"

The 1991 film Hear My Song, directed by Peter Chelsom, presented a fictionalized account inspired by Locke's life and career. The movie explored themes of love and redemption, imagining Locke's return from exile. While Ned Beatty portrayed Locke, the singing voice was provided by Vernon Midgley. This cinematic portrayal sparked a resurgence of interest in Locke's music.

The film's narrative centered on a fictionalized return of Josef Locke in the 1960s, aiming to rekindle a past romance and save an Irish nightclub. The film's success led to a compilation CD of Locke's music and his appearance on the television show This Is Your Life in March 1992. He concluded his public career with a performance of "Goodbye" at the 1992 Royal Variety Show.

Personal Life

Lifestyle and Later Years

Josef Locke was known for his passionate engagement with life, which included a notable penchant for gambling and, as mentioned, tax avoidance. These aspects of his personal life led to his departure from the UK. He settled in County Kildare, Ireland, where he passed away on October 15, 1999. He was survived by his wife, Carmel, and a son.

Memorial and Legacy

Derry Memorial

A lasting tribute to Josef Locke was established in his hometown of Derry. On March 22, 2005, a bronze memorial, designed by Terry Quigley, was unveiled outside the City Hotel on Queen's Quay. The sculpture, shaped like a spiraling musical stave, symbolizes the flowing melodies of his songs and incorporates imagery from his life, including his time as a police officer and iconic landmarks like Blackpool Tower and Carnegie Hall.

Biographical Recognition

In March 2017, coinciding with the centenary of his birth, Nuala McAllister Hart published a biography titled Josef Locke: The People's Tenor. This work aimed to illuminate the singer's life, correcting popular myths he himself had circulated about his career and celebrating his contributions to music.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio

Click here to open the "Josef Locke" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about josef_locke while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.

Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

Explore More Topics

Discover other topics to study!

currency-counting machine

united states copyright office

delaware lackawanna and western railroad

kcwt-cd

social privilege

santa coloma de cervelló

casapound

second battle of newbury

siege of ueda

bones tv series

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Josef Locke Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been meticulously crafted by an AI, drawing exclusively from provided source material, and is intended for educational and informational purposes. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the source, it may not reflect the most current information or nuances beyond the provided text.

This is not professional advice. The content presented here does not constitute musical, biographical, or historical consultation. For definitive information or analysis, always refer to authoritative sources and consult with qualified experts in relevant fields.

The creators of this page are not liable for any inaccuracies, omissions, or actions taken based on the information herein.

Josef Locke: The People's Tenor

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Background 🇮🇪

📍 Early Life in Derry

🛡️ Service and Transition

Career Trajectory 🎭

🌟 From Local Celebrity to National Stage

🏖️ Blackpool and Early Success

📻 Radio, Television, and Recordings

Musical Success 🎶

💖 "Hear My Song, Violetta"

repertoire A Rich Repertoire

💰 Tax Troubles and Exile

Screen Appearances 🎬

🎞️ Film Roles

🎬 The Film "Hear My Song"

Personal Life 👤

⚖️ Lifestyle and Later Years

Memorial and Legacy 🏛️

bronze Derry Memorial

📖 Biographical Recognition

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

True or False? 🤔

❓ Test Your Knowledge! ❓

Gamer's Corner 🎮

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Explore More Topics

📜 Discover other topics to study!

References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background

Early Life in Derry

Service and Transition

Career Trajectory

From Local Celebrity to National Stage

Blackpool and Early Success

Radio, Television, and Recordings

Musical Success

"Hear My Song, Violetta"

A Rich Repertoire

Tax Troubles and Exile

Screen Appearances

Film Roles

The Film "Hear My Song"

Personal Life

Lifestyle and Later Years

Memorial and Legacy

Derry Memorial

Biographical Recognition

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice