From my mid teens to mid twenties I was not only a dedicated Countdown viewer, but a Countdown participant—thanks to living in Melbourne, where Countdown was filmed. I was incredibly lucky to be able to often simply rock up (pun intended) and get into a taping of the show without a (precious) ticket. Saw and met many bands there. A few that immediately come to mind: The Police, Julian Cope, Simple Minds, The Cure, Skyhooks, The Sports, Dragon, The Angels, The Reels, The Aliens, Kate Bush and Boomtown Rats. Below are some brief diary entries.

 

3 March 1979

18 years old

Went to Countdown, saw Plastic Bertrand. Then went to a party in Prahran.

 

6 May 1979
18 years old
Went to Countdown. Saw the mighty 'Hooks, Dragon and Smokie (Needles & Pins).

 

9 June 1979

19 years old

Went to Countdown. Saw the SPORTS!! Spoke to Stephen and Jimbo. Martin smiled over.

 

15 March 1980

19 years old

Went to Countdown, spoke to, and saw The Police.

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This page will be updated semi-regularly. Stop by again for more miscellaneous, possibly indulgent, autobiographical writing.