From Flatbed Trucks to Folk-Rock Mecca: The Magical Tale of Fairport’s Cropredy Convention
Ah, Fairport’s Cropredy Convention — a name that brings a smile to the faces of folk music lovers across the UK and beyond. This legendary festival has been a staple of the British summer music scene for decades, but did you know it all started as a humble village fête? Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and explore the fascinating history of this beloved event and its unique relationship with the quaint Oxfordshire village of Cropredy.
Picture this: it’s 1979, and the folk-rock band Fairport Convention has decided to call it quits. They organize a farewell concert in the sleepy village of Cropredy, where band members Dave and Christine Pegg happen to live. Little did they know that this “final” gig would spark a tradition that would last for over four decades and counting!
The first official Cropredy Festival took place in 1980, and it was a far cry from the grand affair we know today. Imagine a small gathering of friends and fans in a field, with music playing from the back of a flatbed truck. It’s hard to believe that this modest event would grow into a three-day extravaganza attracting up to 20,000 music enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.
As the years rolled by, the festival grew in size and popularity, but it never lost its intimate, family-friendly atmosphere. The villagers of Cropredy, initially skeptical about this influx of music lovers, soon embraced the annual event. It’s become a symbiotic relationship, with the festival bringing a burst of energy and economic boost to the village, while the village provides a picturesque and welcoming backdrop for the festivities.
Now, you might be wondering how a tiny village copes with such a massive influx of visitors each August. Well, it’s a testament to the community spirit of Cropredy and the respectful nature of the festival-goers. Local residents open their homes to performers, set up food stalls, and even volunteer at the event. It’s not uncommon to see villagers chatting with returning festival-goers like old friends — because, in many cases, they are!
The festival has become so ingrained in the village’s identity that it’s hard to imagine Cropredy without it. As one long-time resident put it, “It’s like Christmas for us. We look forward to it all year round!” The event has even inspired a generation of young musicians in the village, with many local children growing up dreaming of one day performing on the Cropredy stage.
But let’s rewind a bit and explore the history of Fairport Convention itself in more detail. Formed in 1967, this pioneering band played a crucial role in the development of British folk rock. Their journey from London’s underground clubs to becoming folk-rock royalty is a story worth telling.
In their early days, Fairport Convention drew inspiration from American folk and rock acts, earning them the nickname “the British Jefferson Airplane.” But it was their decision to incorporate traditional British folk music into their repertoire that set them apart. Albums like “Liege & Lief” (1969) are considered groundbreaking, blending ancient ballads with electric instruments in a way that had never been done before.
The band’s lineup has seen more changes than a chameleon in a kaleidoscope, with over 25 different members passing through its ranks over the years. Yet, somehow, they’ve managed to maintain a distinctive sound and loyal fanbase. It’s this dedication from both the band and their fans that has kept the Cropredy Festival going strong for so long.
Speaking of fans, the Fairport faithful are a breed apart. Many return to Cropredy year after year, treating it as an annual pilgrimage. They’ve even coined a term for themselves — “Fairport Conventionalists.” It’s not uncommon to see three generations of a family attending together, with grandparents introducing their grandchildren to the music they fell in love with decades ago.
The festival’s growth hasn’t been without its challenges, though. As it expanded, concerns were raised about the impact on the village and the surrounding environment. But true to their community-minded spirit, the organizers have worked closely with local authorities and residents to ensure the event remains sustainable and respectful to its host village.
One of the most charming aspects of the festival is how it blends seamlessly with village life. During the event, you might see morris dancers performing in the village square, or stumble upon an impromptu acoustic session in the local pub. It’s this integration of festival and village that makes Cropredy so special.
The festival has also had its share of memorable moments. Who can forget the time when Robert Plant made a surprise appearance in 2008, or when the band celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2017 with a star-studded lineup? These moments have become part of Fairport and Cropredy folklore, passed down from veteran attendees to festival newcomers.
But it’s not just about the big names. The festival has always been a platform for up-and-coming artists, with many now-famous musicians cutting their teeth on the Cropredy stage. It’s this mix of established acts and fresh talent that keeps the festival vibrant and exciting year after year.
The relationship between Fairport Convention and Cropredy goes beyond just the festival. The band has become an integral part of the village’s identity. They’ve played benefit gigs for local causes, supported community projects, and even have a beer named after them in the local pub!
As we look to the future, it’s clear that the bond between Fairport Convention, their festival, and the village of Cropredy is as strong as ever. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 events, the festival came roaring back in 2022, proving that not even a global crisis could dampen the Cropredy spirit.
The festival’s enduring success is a testament to the power of music to bring people together. In a world that often feels divided, there’s something truly special about thousands of people gathering in a field to share their love of music and community.
So, what’s next for Fairport’s Cropredy Convention? Well, if history is anything to go by, we can expect more great music, more unforgettable moments, and more strengthening of the bonds between band, fans, and village. As I write this, the 2024 festival is just a few days away, set to take place from August 8–10.
Wrapping up our journey through the history of Fairport’s Cropredy Convention, it’s clear that this is more than just a music festival. It’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the enduring power of folk music. Whether you’re a die-hard Fairport fan or simply someone who appreciates good music and good vibes, Cropredy is a festival that should be on your bucket list.
So, why not mark your calendars for next August? Pack your tent, dust off your dancing shoes, and prepare to become part of the Cropredy family. Who knows? You might just find yourself returning year after year, becoming another thread in the rich tapestry of this remarkable festival’s history.
After all, as Fairport Convention’s unofficial anthem goes, “Meet on the Ledge” — and there’s no better ledge to meet on than in a field in Cropredy, surrounded by friends old and new, with the sound of folk-rock filling the summer air.
