PRS for Music honours Squeeze's first gig

Legendary pop group Squeeze are to be honoured by the PRS for Music Heritage Award.

A special plaque will be erected in South East London where the original group Chris Difford (guitar, vocals, lyrics), Glenn Tilbrook (vocals, guitar, music), Jools Holland (keyboards), Harry Kakoulli (bass guitar) and Paul Gunn (drums) first performed, at the Greenwich Dance Agency in 1975.

PRS for Music set up the Heritage Award last year to recognise the unusual ‘performance birthplaces’ of famous bands and artists. Squeeze is the fourth band to be given the honour of receiving the permanent plaque.

Founding members Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook will be there to see the plaque unveiled in Greenwich on Tuesday March 23rd at 2.30pm.

PRS for Music Chairman, Ellis Rich said: “With its two very talented song writers, Squeeze has made an incredible contribution to the British music scene across three decades. Many of today’s most commercially successful and credible artists, ranging from Razorlight, Ron Sexsmith and Kasabian have all cited them as a major influence so it’s a real pleasure to be honouring them today with the PRS for Music Heritage Award.” 

Chris Difford said: "I'm humbled that the birthplace of Squeeze has been chosen to be marked in this way.” 

Glenn Tilbrook said: “It's a pleasure to return to the place where we performed as Squeeze way back in 1975, I still buy my cheese just up the road!”

Brendan Keaney, Director, Greenwich Dance Agency, said: “Squeeze are an extraordinary creative force and their music has a particular resonance for many people in this part of London.  Consequently we are delighted that such an important moment in their history will be recorded at Greenwich Dance Agency, a building that is now a base for some of the capital’s finest dance artists.” 

Squeeze had numerous hits in both the UK and US including “Cool for Cats”, “Up the Junction”, “Tempted”, Labelled with Love”, “Black Coffee” and “Hourglass”. 

Anyone who was present at the first gig and is interested in attending the plaque unveiling ceremony or has photos of the performance should contact heritageplaque@prsformusic.com and will receive an official invite.