Ian Ellis
1944 - 2025

Mick writes:

Ian was the bass player with The Mick Clarke Band for the album 'New Mountain' and numerous gigs and tours around Europe. He had an easy style which seemed to make the music settle just right, and fitted perfectly with Lou Martin's piano, which we were featuring at that time, and later with Dave Lennox. He was also a relaxed, affable guy - always smiling.. nothing was ever a problem.

Tours that I remember include a trip down to Sicily, to play the Alcamo Blues Festival. Lou, unfortunately, had a few too many that night, but Ian was unflappable and held the show together. He worked mainly with Chris Sharley on the drums but we also did a couple of tours with his friend Ric Lee of Ten Years After, playing dates in Germany, Holland and Luxembourg. Along with Lou we were a happy band.

Ian had worked with Ric in his band 'The Breakers' and also worked with Ray Minhinnet in a Cream tribute 'Creamed' showing that he could pull out the licks when needed. He was also a fine singer, having originally formed the prog three piece 'Clouds', and worked with Savoy Brown and even the Tremeloes.

Ian always had a twinkle in his eye. I remember after one crazy night at the appropriately named Saccra Birra Saloon in Italy, Ian literally crawling out of the club on all fours, while the bar staff lined to up wave and chorus.."Bye Bye Ian"!

Ian also loved his dog, Harley, and in later years he and Jeanie retired to live by the sea, originally in a camper van. I don't know too much about this period but I think he enjoyed a relaxed life, and organised a regular jam at a pub in Rye, East Sussex.

Ian was a pleasure to work with and a joy to know. R.I.P. Ian.