Black Sabbath star helps young Corby musicians record environmental anthem
Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi has stepped in to help a group of young Corby musicians record an environmental anthem.
Run by Corby’s Paul Balmer and Judy Caine, Oakley Rangers are a group of budding rock stars, who volunteer in their community in exchange for free music lessons.
The group performed their ‘Song for Gaia’ highlighting the future of the planet when a giant replica of the Earth – Gaia by artist Luke Jerram – was installed at the Corby Cube last year.
Inspired to use his music industry contacts to get the track recorded, Paul contacted a friend – step forward Black Sabbath legend Tony Iommi.
Paul said: “Tony helped us secure a good studio as he understood the young people’s mission to use music to raise their concerns over the environment. The young people are very excited and encouraged by this unique opportunity.”
The musicians took part in the session at Black Sabbath’s Warwick studio, where Tony has been recording a solo album.
Working with Grammy-winning producer and engineer Mike Exeter, the youngsters stepped up to lay down their parts.
Paul managed to get a signature Tony Iommi guitar from Jaydee guitars in Birmingham to be used for the recording, and he has been impressed by how the young musicians made the most of the opportunity.
He said: “The kids excelled themselves. I think they are the best group of musicians we’ve had in the 20 years we have been doing this.
"One of the children said it was the best day of their lives. To be in a professional studio environment with all the expectation that entails and to rise to the occasion is a real achievement.”
There will soon be an overdub session with ‘Chordless Corby Choir’ – led by Corby mayor Callum Reilly, followed by the mixing of the final track.
BAFTA nominated, Music On Earth Productions of Corby will then produce a music video.
Paul said: “I’m totally serious about this having a global impact. It’s a plea to the ‘grown-ups’ – it’s powerful with the children talking straight down the lens.
"I would dearly hope that President Trump sees this. It’s their music, their words. I’m trying to share their concerns with as many people as possible.”