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December 2024

  Wednesday 11th Albert's Songwriters Showcase, Shrewsbury 20:30  
Albert's Shed is a top music venue in Shrewsbury, with Albert's Songwriters Showcase one of its most popular nights. Raphael Callaghan will perform a 45-minute set of his own songs, with a local band finishing off the night. He could do with all the support he can get . . . Free admission, kicks off 8.30pm.

October 2024

  Wednesday 30th Lunchtime Live, Inspire Community Cafe, Wallasey 12:00  
Raphael Callaghan returns to his favourite gig - Lunchtime Live at Inspire Community Cafe, St Luke's Church basement, Breck Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 3BD. He'll be singing and playing his own brand of blues, gospel and roots for an hour from 12midday prompt, don't be late! The cafe sells lovely food at reasonable prices and is such a comfortable way to spend a lunchtime. Free admission, but there is a donation bucket . . .

September 2024

  Friday 27th Raphael Callaghan In Concert, Open Arts Centre 19:30  
Following his sell-out appearance last year, Raphael Callaghan returns to Waterloo United Free Church on Liverpool Road North, Liverpool L22 0LQ for this Open Arts Centre concert. Tickets £6 including refreshments, available on the door or in advance from Write Blend Bookshop in South Road, Waterloo, and Pritchard's Bookshop, Moor Lane, Crosby.
  Friday 13th Folk On The Coast Festival, New Brighton Floral Pavilion, Wirral 13:00  
New Brighton Floral Pavilion hosts the Folk On The Coast Festival weekend, with top names like Martin Carthy and Martin Simpson. Proceedings kick off with a full Fringe programme on the Friday afternoon, September 13th - Raphael Callaghan plays in the lovely Panoramic Lounge at 3pm. And the whole festival is now FREE . . .

June 2024

  Thursday 20th The Music Room, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan opens for Grammy Award-winning US bluesman David Evans at the Music Room, Liverpool Philharmonic Hall. David Evans was a college room-mate with Alan Wilson of Canned Heat and in a long career as blues researcher has interviewed all the original acoustic blues greats like Son House, Skip James, Robert Wilkins and Rube Lacey. David is a superb guitar player - he knows his stuff and this is not to be missed if you like early blues. Raphael Callaghan starts at 8pm, don't be late! Tickets going well, please get yours online at liverpoolphil.com

May 2024

  Wednesday 15th Lunchtime Live, Inspire Community Cafe, Wallasey 12:00  
This will be Raphael Callaghan's 5th gig at Lunchtime Live. He'll be playing a one-hour set from 12 midday prompt (don't be late) and you can also enjoy lovely food. Free admision but there is a 'bucket' for donations. It's a favourite gig for artists and audience alike. Inspire Community Cafe is at The Spire (St Luke's Church), Breck Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 3BD.

April 2024

  Saturday 20th Alexis Korner Celebration Day, Knighton, Powys (mid-Wales) 13:00  
It's 40 years since British blues stalwart Alexis Korner passed away. The Korner family lived in the Knighton area and St Edward's Church is again hosting a celebration event. I am hoping to play again, this time songs from Alexis's own repertoire. Much more detail to come . . .

November 2023

  Saturday 11th Tenby Blues Festival, Acoustic Stage 19:00  
Raphael Callaghan opens the Acoustic Stage event at Tenby Blues Festival at Church House, Upper Frog Street, Tenby, South Wales SA70 7JD. Tenby is a lovely town but there's an extra buzz on Blues Festival weekend. The Saturday Night Acoustic Stage is a ticketed event - get them on tenbyblues.co.uk Doors 7pm, Raphael plays a one-hour set from 7.30pm, followed by sets from Kelvin Davies & Gary Jones, then headliner Martin Harley. Sounds good!

October 2023

  Wednesday 4th Inspire Community Cafe, Wallasey 12:00  
One of Raphael's favourite gigs, a one-hour set from 12midday prompt - and there's lovely food available too. The Spire, Breck Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 3BD. Don't be late . . .

September 2023

  Thursday 21st New Everyman Folk Club, Liverpool 19:30  
Raphael has played the Everyman Folk Club a number of times but this will be his first gig at the 'New' club at its current venue, Aigburth Cricket & Bowls Club, Southwood Road, St Michael In The Hamlet, Liverpool L17 7BQ. Free admission but please put some money in the hat . . .
  Sunday 10th Dolgarrog Festival 13:00  
Raphael is one of a number of artists contributing to the musical element of the festival. More details soon

August 2023

  Wednesday 30th This is a test 7:00  
It's just a test for Septober 37th to see if Calendar is working! Thank you . . .

July 2023

  Friday 28th Waterloo United Free Church 19:00  
Open Arts Culture presents monthly concerts at Waterloo United Free Church on Crosby Road North in Crosby, Liverpool L22 0LG. Raphael Callaghan is delighted to be the featured guest on Friday, July 28th. Doors 7pm, music from 7.30pm to 9.30pm with a break in the middle for refreshments (including cake) which are included in the £5 admission. Sounds good! And Raphael loves church gigs . . .
  Monday 24th Stirling Folk Club, Scotland 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is delighted to be asked to open for Scottish folk music icon Archie Fisher at Stirling Folk Club. Admission is £13, should be a busy night, get there handy if you can . . .
  Saturday 15th Raphael Callaghan at St Edward's Church, Knighton 14:00  
Following his surprise 4-song set at St Edward's Church, Knighton, Powys, mid-Wales in April for the Alexis Korner event, Raphael Callaghan returns to this wonderful venue for a full gig starting prompt at 2pm. Tickets £8 from John Goodband on goodband.john@gmail.com or £10 on the door.
  Friday 7th Morecambe Music Festival 19:00  
Morecambe Music Festival takes place at more than 30 venues over the July 7-9 weekend. Raphael Callaghan plays an open-air concert at Clock Tower Cafe on the Promenade, LA4 5BX, from 7pm to 9pm on Friday, July 7th. Morecambe is a great place, come on down if you can . . .

June 2023

  Sunday 11th Balmoral Acoustic Blues Club, Saltburn-by-the-Sea 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the guest of the highly-regarded Balmoral Acoustic Blues Club in Saltburn, over there on the east coast. Held in the Balmoral Room at Saltburn Conservative Club, Balmoral Terrace TS12 1AS and run by Harry Simpson. With a capacity of just 40, tickets (£10) are booked through Harry on 07960 935263.

April 2023

  Wednesday 19th Music For Mind (mental health charity) 19:30  
Soundbox 'Spring Thing' presents a multi-act concert in aid of the mental health charity Mind at Chester's wonderful venue St Mary's Creative Space, St Mary's Hill, off Castle Street, CH1 2DW, on Wednesday, April 19th. Performing are Helianthus, Tennessee Waltz, Blueswagon, Dyad, Run For Cover and Raphael Callaghan. Doors open 7pm, music from 7.30pm, advance tickets at £8 (no booking fee) now selling at www.wegottickets.com/event/570211
  Thursday 6th Wrexham Folk & Acoustic Club 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan shares a double bill with the fabulous Igloo Hearts at Wrexham Folk And Acoustic Club's first guest night of 2023. Doors 7.30pm, music from 8pm prompt (please note new start time as last orders are now 15 mins earlier), upstairs at the Nags Head, Mount Street, Wrexham LL13 8DW. Just £6 on the door, I'm on at around 8.20pm. Can't wait . . .

March 2023

  Wednesday 15th Lunchtime Live at Inspire Community Cafe 12:00  
Pleased to be back on the Wirral at a favourite venue and event - it's Lunchtime Live at Inspire Community Cafe, The Spire (St Luke's Church), Breck Road, Wallasey CH44 3BD. I'll be doing an hour-long set from 12midday prompt, don't be late! The cafe sells lovely hot meals too. Free admission but there is a 'bucket' for donations.
  Friday 3rd Wirral Blues Club 19:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the featured guest of the new Wirral Blues Club, a monthly venture held at the Village Club in Thornton Hough, Wirral CH63 1JL. Admission £5 on the door (doors open 6.30pm). Local acoustic group Creakin' Gates kick off at 7.15pm, Raphael Callaghan does an hour set from 8.15pm and the house band finishes off a packed night from 9.30pm. Good stuff!

November 2022

  Sunday 20th Tenby Blues Festival 16:00  
Raphael is thrilled to be booked at the Tenby Blues Festival in Pembrokeshire, South Wales. Tenby is a lovely town and it comes alive with blues fans for the festival weekend. Raphael will be playing two sets on the free Blues Trail, at The Qube, at 4pm and 5.15pm.

October 2022

  Thursday 6th Friends Of Folk, Leyland **now cancelled** 20:30  
Raphael Callaghan is delighted to have been asked to play for Friends Of Folk at the Fox Lane Sports & Social Club, Fox Lane, Leyland PR25 1HB. Friends Of Folk has established itself as a pre-eminent monthly acoustic concert in the north-west. Tickets at £12 are available now at fofshop.org.uk This is one for the diary!
  Sunday 2nd Callander Jazz And Blues Festival, Scotland 0:00  
The final day of the festival, Raphael will be playing early evening at a venue and time tba. Watch this space!
  Saturday 1st Callander Jazz And Blues Festival, Scotland 0:00  
Raphael Callaghan is delighted to be booked for the Callander Jazz And Blues Festival near Stirling in Scotland. He'll be appearing on the Saturday afternoon at a venue and time tba. Also appearing early Sunday evening, tba.

September 2022

  Saturday 17th Ripley Live - Gerry Jablonski Band & Raphael Callaghan **now cancelled** (with apologies for short notice) 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is delighted to be asked back to Ripley Live\, this time to open for the force of nature that is the Gerry Jablonski Band. Venue is the Star Club in Ripley Town Hall, North Yorkshire HG3 3AX (near Harrogate). Ticket details soon!
  Wednesday 14th Lunchtime music at Inspire Community Cafe, Wallasey 12:00  
A return visit for Raphael Callaghan to the lovely Inspire Community Cafe at The Spire (St Luke's Church), Breck Road, Wallasey CH44 3BD. He'll be performing a one-hour set from 12midday prompt. Free admission, but please avail yourselves of the excellent cafe menu.

August 2022

  Saturday 27th Great British R&B Festival, Colne 0:00  
Raphael Callaghan closes today's Afternoon Session at the Little Theatre, the Main Stage of this year's Fringe at Colne Blues. He's on at 5.30pm. Ticket details soon!

July 2022

  Friday 29th The Big Room at Heswall Hall 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan has had to pull out of opening for Dr T-Bone Blues Band. His place is taken by Jamie Clague.
  Sunday 17th Upton Blues Festival, Acoustic Stage 13:00  
The 2020 and 2021 festivals were cancelled, but looks like July 15-17, 2022, is on! Raphael Callaghan is booked for the Acoustic Stage on the final day (Sunday) of the Upton Blues Festival, Upton on Severn, Worcestershire, one set from 1pm. Venue is St Peter & St Paul's Church, Old Street, WR8 0JF. Upton is a fabulous free festival, with two main stages, Acoustic Stage, and scores of gigs in pubs around town. it's always a stellar line-up. Full details on the festival website . . .
  Thursday 7th Harbour View 'Speakeasy', Roker 20:00  
'Speakeasy' at the Harbour View pub in Roker, Sunderland, has been going for more than 10 years. Run by George Shovlin and friends, it features a guest artist supported by a coterie of fine local musicians and has become an institution in the north east of England. Music starts at 8pm but it's usually full by 7.15pm! Raphael Callaghan looks forward to being the guest on this night.
  Sunday 3rd Bothy Folk Club, Southport 19:30  
In a rescheduled date from 2020, Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at the long-running Bothy Folk Club - it's always a special gig as this is where he started in 1966! The club has found a new home at Southport Bijou Cinema, 8 Post Office Avenue, Southport PR9 0US, just 5 mins walk from the train station. Tickets £8.80 inc booking fee (non-Bothy members) and £6.60 inc booking fee for members. Get them on www.wegottickets.com/event/496771. The club is held in the upstairs lounge - there is a lift and a bar. Doors 7pm, starting time is now 7.30pm prompt!

June 2022

  Saturday 18th Ripley Live, north Yorkshire 20:00  
A rescheduled date for Raphael Callaghan from 2020, Ripley Live in the lovely village of Ripley, about three miles from Harrogate in north Yorkshire, is a fabulous and much-coveted gig. Tickets for this all-seated concert in Ripley Town Hall are available now, £8 members, £10 guests and non-members (plus small booking fee) at ripleylive.com Limited capacity - get your tickets now . . .

April 2022

  Friday 22nd Kontra Roots 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is special guest, along with roots-blues group The Rants, at the long-established Kontra Roots club in Earls Barton, Northants. Organiser Kevin Buxton has a special birthday next day, so should be a great night! Ticket details soon . . .

March 2022

  Wednesday 2nd Lunchtime Live - Acoustic, Inspire Cafe, Wirral 12:00  
Raphael Callaghan with an hour of his acoustic roots music from 12noon to 1pm at the Inspire Community Cafe at The Spire (St Luke's Church), Breck Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 3BD. Enjoy your lunch from a wonderful menu at the Inspire Cafe. Free admission, donations welcome . . .

February 2022

  Wednesday 2nd The Atkinson, Southport 19:30  
Another in the the long-running Grateful Fred's nights, this features Raphael Callaghan opening for the duo Brooks Williams and Aaron Catlow. The Atkinson, formerly Southport Arts Centre, is a wonderful venue. Tickets at £13 are available at www.theatkinson.co.uk/events/grateful-freds-feb22 and the advice is to get them in advance before they sell out! Should be a great night of roots and blues. Starts 7.30pm.

September 2021

  Thursday 16th Green Note, Camden Town (rescheduled date) 20:00  
Rescheduled date for Raphael Callaghan in the Basement Bar of the wonderful Green Note in Camden Town, Thursday, September 16. This will be the London launch of the Blue Lies CD. Limited capacity, tickets on sale now from greennote.co.uk Looking forward to this one!

July 2021

  Sunday 18th Upton Blues Festival Acoustic Stage **now postponed until 2022** 12:00  
Sad to say the 2021 festival is cancelled. But all artists are being carried over to the 2022 festival, July 15-17. Raphael Callaghan is booked for the Acoustic Stage at the final day (Sunday) of the Upton Blues Festival, Upton on Severn, Worcestershire, one set from 1pm. Venue is St Peter's Church, Old Street. Upton is a fabulous free festival, with two main stages, Acoustic Stage, and scores of gigs in pubs around town. it's usually a stellar line-up. More news next year!

June 2021

  Friday 11th West Kirby Arts Centre, Wirral (rescheduled date) 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan performs his full show, with support from fine acoustic picker and singer Iain Paterson, at one of Wirral's leading live music venues - West Kirby Arts Centre. The centre is housed in the Old Unitarian Church in Brookfield Gardens, CH48 4EL. Tickets at £7 each available from the arts centre website NOW. This is a rescheduled date from 2020 and looks like it will happen, with elaborate safety precautions so that everyone can feel comfortable. Capacity limited to just 50. If I wasn't already playing, I'd feel confident in attending myself . . .

November 2020

  Wednesday 25th Green Note, Camden, London (rescheduled) **NOW CANCELLED** **NOW CANCELLED** Watch for new date in 2021 19:30  
Green Note is the best roots venue in London, and Raphael Callaghan will be playing two full sets in The Basement Bar, limited capacity. Anyone in London that night, or anyone planning a trip there and interested in going, the advice is definitely to book your tickets in advance! Price is £8, doors open 7.30pm, music from 8pm. Tickets now available from Green Note website. The venue is 10 minutes walk from Camden Town tube at 106 Parkway, NW1 7AN.
  Thursday 5th Wrexham Folk & Acoustic Club (rescheduled) **NOW CANCELLED** **NOW CANCELLED** 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan is special guest in a double bill with James and Katy McGregor at the Nags Head, Mount Street, Wrexham LL13 8DW. It's a long-running North Wales club and highly regarded. Admission £6 on the door. Limited capacity, get there handy for a seat. I HAVE HAD WORD THAT THE CLUB CANNOT RE-OPEN IN OCTOBER 2020 AS PLANNED. It is so disappointing for everyone, but we have to live with it. More news as I get it . . ..

July 2020

  Sunday 19th Upton Blues Festival, Acoustic Stage **Festival now postponed to 2021 and I'm on it** 13:00  
Raphael Callaghan is booked for the Acoustic Stage at the final day of the Upton Blues Festival, Upton on Severn, Worcestershire, one set from 1pm. Venue is St Peter s Church, Old Street. Upton is a fabulous free festival, with two main stages, Acoustic Stage, and scores of gigs in pubs around town. A printed programme will be available by end of June, but keep checking the festival website for regular updates about who's on - it's usually a stellar line-up!

June 2020

  Saturday 13th West Kirby Arts Centre, Wirral **now postponed, hoping for 2021 date** 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan performs his full show, with support, at another of Wirral's leading live music venues - West Kirby Arts Centre. The centre is housed in the Old Unitarian Church in Brookfield Gardens, CH48 4EL. Tickets at £7 each available from the arts centre website soon.
  Monday 8th Ain't Nothin' But blues bar, London **now postponed, hoping for 2021 date** 18:30  
First appearance for Raphael Callaghan at Ain't Nothin' But, a funky blues bar in Kingly Street, Soho, London W1B 5PZ. The bar has live music seven nights a week, and Raphael Callaghan is playing one set from 6.30pm sharp! Free admission.

May 2020

  Saturday 30th Raphael's CD launch in North Wales **now postponed, hoping for an October date** 19:30  
The BLUE LiES album launch tour arrives in North Wales! Saturday, May 30th. Venue is the Crypt, St George's Church, St George, Abergele LL22 9BW (next to the Kinmel Arms). Super atmosphere and acoustics in the Crypt - it's like a cross between a church and Liverpool's famous Cavern club. Support is the excellent Jude Lane, and Raphael plans to have special guests with him too. £5 admission on the door, refreshments available.
  Friday 22nd Kontra Roots Club **now postponed** 19:30  
I'm one of three featured artists at the well-established Kontra Roots Club night on Friday, May 22nd, in Northamptonshire. It's at Earls Barton Workingmen's Club, Queen Street, Earls Barton, Northampton NN6 0LN, adm £3. Apparently they like their music there - and it can get busy!
  Friday 15th Raphael Callaghan at Timperley Folk Club **now postponed** 20:00  
Guest spots at this lovely, quirky little club are designated as 'star turns', so I am the Star Turn on Friday, May 15th. The club is held at Timperley Taverners, 43A Park Road, Timperley, Altrincham WA14 5AD (right next to a Metro stop). This is a return booking, with thanks to Nigel.
  Sunday 10th Esoteric Blues Society, Manchester 21:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the guest artist of the Esoteric Blues Society at its new home, the Rose And Monkey Hotel, 31 Swan Street, Manchester M4 5JZ, on Sunday May 10th. The Lost Highway Juke Joint is being set up in the hotel's enclosed rear garden for a weekend festival of blues music. Raphael will play two sets between 9.30pm and 11.30pm. The Rose And Monkey, formerly the Burton Arms, is next to the famous Band On The Wall club.
  Thursday 7th Wrexham Folk & Acoustic Club, Nag's Head *now postponed* as the club has closed until October. Rescheduled date is Thursday, November 5th! 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan is special guest in a double bill with James and Katy McGregor at the Nags Head, Mount Street, Wrexham LL13 8DW. It's a long-running North Wales club and highly regarded. Admission £6 on the door. Limited capacity again, so get there handy for a seat.

April 2020

  Wednesday 29th Green Note, Camden town, London **now rescheduled to Wednesday, November 25th** 20:00  
Green Note is the best roots venue in London, and Raphael Callaghan will be playing two full sets in The Basement Bar, an intimate space with limited capacity. Anyone in London that night, or anyone planning a trip there and interested in going, the advice is definitely to book your tickets in advance! Price is £8, doors open 7.30pm, music from 8pm. Tickets now available from Green Note website.
  Sunday 26th Folk & Roots at The Big Room, Heswall Hall, Wirral **now postponed** 19:30  
The Final Nails introduce Raphael Callaghan and a topline band tba at the regular Folk s a great venue and is helping Wirral to become one of the top areas on Merseyside for quality live music. Tickets at £5 will be available soon from the Heswall Hall website.
  Wednesday 22nd Folk, Blues & Beyond, Hope Valley 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the featured guest at Folk, Blues & Beyond, held at The Tea Room, Old Hall Hotel, Market Place, Hope, Derbyshire S33 6RH, on Wednesday April 22nd.
  Sunday 19th Raphael Callaghan at Bothy Folk Club, Southport **now postponed** 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at the Bothy on Sunday, April 19th. It's where it all started for him - in 1966! He hasn't gigged there for 10 years, so it's a special 'homecoming.' The Bothy club is held at Park Golf Club, Park Road West, Southport PR9 0JS. Advance tickets now available from the Bothy Folk Club website - click on the Guests page and then click wegottickets in the intro paragraph.
  Saturday 18th Raphael Callaghan at Ripley Live **now postponed** 20:00  
Ripley Live, held in Ripley Town Hall, is a fabulous gig for bands and soloists. I'm playing on Saturday, April 18th in the intimate upstairs bar, very limited capacity, advance tickets £10, now available from the Ripley Live website. Ripley is near Harrogate in North Yorkshire\, postcode HG3 3AX.

February 2020

  Thursday 27th Bradford Blues Club, the Hullabaloo, Shipley 20:00  
Ben 'Blue' Waters introduces special guests Raphael Callaghan and Howlin' Mat for a night of acoustic blues for Bradford Blues Club at Hullabaloo bar, 41 Westgate, Shipley, Bradford BD18 3QX. Ben Waters tirelessly promotes acoustic blues in that area of Yorkshire - support him and us if you can!

September 2019

  Friday 27th An evening of acoustic music 19:30  
The Lighted Stage presents an evening of acoustic music at The Crypt, St George's Church, St George, Abergele LL22 9BS. Featured artists are Jude Lane, Aura and Raphael Callaghan. Admission £4 on the door, refreshments available. The Lighted Stage is an established event organisation with many fine acoustic-based concerts and gigs under its belt and renowned for good sound - and interesting locations!

August 2019

  Saturday 17th Blues night with Raphael Callaghan 21:00  
Night of blues this Saturday, August 17th, at Bunny Jackson's Juke Joint, 1 Jack Rosenthal Street, Manchester M15 4RA. Live music kicks off with a harmonica/guitar duo (sorry, don't know their name) followed by a set from Raphael Callaghan shortly after 10pm. Come on down, music lovers . . .

July 2019

  Friday 12th Folk On The Farm, Anglesey 1:00  
Raphael Callaghan has the 2.45pm slot on the new Friday afternoon concert at the lovely Folk On The Farm Festival in north-east Anglesey. Tickets are on sale now!

June 2019

  Friday 14th Lake District Folk & Acoustic Club 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at Lake District Folk & Acoustic Club, held upstairs at Hawkshead Brewery in Staveley, Cumbria, between Kendal and Windermere. The club is professionally-run by Steve and Sandra Harrison and boasts a wealth of fine regular singers and musicians. Starts 7.30pm, admission £5.
  Tuesday 11th Everyman Folk Club, Liverpool 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan returns to the Everyman Folk Club at the Cross Keys, Earle Street, Liverpool L3 9NS (near where Liverpool Stadium used to be). The club is run superbly by Chris and Hughie Jones and Shirley Peden, with a discerning audience too. No PA, straight acoustic, can get quite intimate - I like it! Starts 8pm. Last time I was on, in September 2017, it was a VERY busy night.

May 2019

  Monday 27th Esoteric Blues Society 18:00  
esotericbluessociety have asked me to play a set at Bar 21 in Manchester this Monday, May 27th (yes, Bank Holiday). The theme for the evening is Bentonia, home of Skip James, so I'm delighted to be asked. From about 6pm to 11 there'll be sounds on vinyl played on vintage equipment plus blues films, books, documents and more, and live music from me at about 9pm. Free admission, basement of Bar 21, 10 Thomas Street, Manchester M4 1DH. They use instagram for promotion so try esotericbluessociety or http
  Friday 3rd Borders Blues Club, Scotland 19:30  
The Borders Blues Club in Innerleithen, Scotland, hosts Smokehouse Blues, with Raphael Callaghan opening the night with a solo set.

April 2019

  Thursday 18th Telford's Folk Sessions, Chester 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the special guest of the Deportees for their monthly gig at this superb Chester venue. He'll be doing an extended solo set in between sets by the excellent Deportees house band. In the bar, free admission.

March 2019

  Monday 4th BBC Radio Merseyside live session/interview 14:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the live studio guest of Jenny Lee Summers on her BBC Radio Merseyside afternoon show. I'll play a couple of songs live and be interviewed by Jen, from about 2.30pm to 3pm. Tune in if you can!

February 2019

  Sunday 24th Blues Harp Wirral 3rd Anniversary 19:30  
I'm delighted to be asked to talk and play at the 3rd anniversary meeting of Blues Harp Wirral, a group of harmonica devotees. It's at the Wallasians Club, 140 Grove Road, Wallasey CH45 0JF, 7.30pm (should finish by 10pm). Admission £3. There are some fine players in the group, so if you like blues harmonica this sounds like a night not to miss.
  Friday 1st Liverpool Acoustic Live 10th Anniversary 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan has been invited to headline the Liverpool Acoustic Live 10th Anniversary show - and he's happy to accept! It's at that funky little venue 81 Renshaw Street (it's a cafe and record shop by day and a superb venue at the rear by night). The cracking bill also includes Geoghegan Jackson, Liverpool Acoustic stalwarts Derek King, Stuart Todd and Graham Holland, plus opening sets from the two Songwriting Challenge winners. This busy night starts 8pm, advance tickets available from https

January 2019

  Friday 18th Timperley Folk Club 20:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at Timperley Folk Club, held at Timperley Taverners, Park Road. Timperley is near Altrincham. Singers first half, me in the second. Starts at 8.30pm.
  Friday 4th Beat The January Blues (2). This event appears to be cancelled as the venue is not open that night! I'll keep you posted . . . 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan has been invited by Liverpool Acoustic Live to play at 81 Renshaw Street, Liverpool city centre. More details soon!
  Thursday 3rd Raphael Callaghan in Connah's Quay 19:00  
The Red Hall pub, Connah's Quay, Flintshire. I'll be doing a 30-minute slot from 8.30pm.

November 2018

  Saturday 3rd Raphael Callaghan at Christian Folksinger & Performers Club 19:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at one of the loveliest folk clubs in the North West, the Christian Folk Club at St Mark's Church in Saltney, near Chester. Doors open at 6pm, music from floor singers starts 7pm, a break, then Raphael will sing and play his personal brand of blues (and gospel, of course) for about an hour. For the £3 admission you also get a buffet (!) and the warmest of welcomes from Brian and Stella. Always a special night at this club - be there if you can.

September 2018

  Sunday 9th Wallasey Folk & Acoustic Club 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the featured guest at Wallasey Folk & Acoustic Club at the In Spire Coffee Shop. It's a lovely intimate setting with a PA, and cakes, tea and coffee on sale (bring your own alcohol if you wish). Free admission, but please buy a raffle ticket or two . . . The address is The Spire, Breck Road, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 3BD.

August 2018

  Saturday 25th Great British R & B Festival, Colne 13:00  
Raphael Callaghan has two gigs on the Roadhouse sessions at the Great British R & B Festival at Colne in Lancashire. It's a great festival - catch him at the Rugby Club from 1pm-2pm, and later at the 12 Bar Cafe at 4pm.

July 2018

  Thursday 5th Ruthin All-Styles Music Club 18:30  
Ruthin All-Styles Music Club, held at the Feathers Inn, Well Street, Ruthin, presents one of their regular 'Showcase' nights, with the spotlight falling on Raphael Callaghan. He'll do an extended spot towards the middle of the evening.

June 2018

  Tuesday 5th Geoff Muldaur and Raphael Callaghan 18:30  
Raphael Callaghan opens for the great Geoff Muldaur at Hotel Victoria, Menai Bridge, Anglesey, North Wales. Geoff (yes, Maria's ex) is a legend of US blues and roots. Richard Thompson, Bonnie Raitt and John Sebastion are just some of his ardent admirers. A wonderful singer and lovely guitar player, this intimate gig will sell out! Tickets will be available from Palas Print in Caernarfon (01286 674631) and Mudshark Records in Bangor.

May 2018

  Monday 7th Swinton Folk Club 18:30  
Raphael Callaghan is the guest at Swinton Folk Club, held at the White Lion pub, 242 Manchester Road, Swinton, Manchester M27 4TS. Long-running acoustic club. Due to circumstances beyond the club's control, their website is unfortunately continually out-of-date. And yes, it is a Bank Holiday, but the club is definitely ON!

April 2018

  Monday 23rd Radio live session/interview 18:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the guest of presenter Tony Nightingale on his Blues Unlimited radio show on Lincoln City Radio, 103.6FM, 7pm, Monday April 23rd. Interview plus live music - catch it on the internet if you can.
  Sunday 22nd Moon On The Water, Cleethorpes 15:30  
Raphael Callaghan is at Moon On The Water, Cleethorpes, from 4.30pm. Venue is a lovely cafe/bar and vegan restaurant with regular live music. Two sets from 4.30pm.
  Saturday 21st Fat Skeleton Blues And Bikes Weekend, Lincolnshire 21:00  
Raphael Callaghan is booked to close the Acoustic Stage on Saturday night at 10pm. Half Deaf Clatch is among others on the bill so it should be a good session. This excellent weekend event raises money for charity and is held at Cabourne Parva, near Caistor, Lincolnshire. See the Blues & Bikes website for admission details.
  Wednesday 18th Honey Bee Blues Club, Sheffield THIS GIG IS NOW UNFORTUNATELY CANCELLED 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan returns to Honey Bee Blues Club in Sheffield. This time at the Bath Hotel, 66-68 Victoria Street, Sheffield S3 7QL. Music 9pm, looking forward to renewing friendships made last time!
  Friday 13th EDDA Community Arts, Southport 18:30  
An Evening With Raphael Callaghan, at EDDA Community Arts, Liverpool Road, Ainsdale, Southport PR8 3NE. Lovely venue for a concert. Admission is £5, you can get tickets in advance from the venue on 01704 578003 (no booking fee). Bar and refreshments, doors 7.30pm, music starts 8pm.
  Tuesday 10th The Islington, London N1 0XT 18:30  
This is THE BIG ONE! Raphael Callaghan's first London gig for years. A special one-man show, with music from 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 plus booking fee. See the Events page at www.theislington.com or go to WeGotTickets.com and type in my name into the search line top right. There's likely to be a gospel set, a tribute to Skip James, plenty from the Said And Done album and a batch of new songs too. Come on down . . .

March 2018

  Friday 2nd Raphael Callaghan at Ty Glyndwr 21:00  
Raphael Callaghan makes his debut appearance in Caernarfon at Ty Glyndwr Caffi/Bar, 1 Castle Street, LL55 1SE. Starts 9pm. Ty Glyndwr is an intimate cafe/bar in the centre of the historic town. Get there handy for a seat. Croeso!

February 2018

  Thursday 1st The Hungry Horse Folk Club, Ellesmere Port 19:30  
Raphael Callaghan is booked for the BIG Spot at the Hungry Horse Folk Club, held at the Whitby Club, Chester Road/Dunkirk Lane, Ellesmere Port CH65 6QF. It starts at 7.30pm. More details soon.

January 2018

  Friday 5th Liverpool Acoustic Live 19:30  
The event, at arts cafe 81 Renshaw Street, Liverpool L1 2SJ, is called Beat The January Blues, and Raphael Callaghan tops the bill. Also appearing, Jo Bywater, Al Peterson, and Graham Holland. A strong bill indeed, should be a great night! Admission is by donation into a bucket . . .

October 2017

  Sunday 8th Honey Bee Blues Club, Sheffield 15:00  
Raphael Callaghan's first gig for the Honey Bee Blues Club in Sheffield. It's the club's well-established Sunday Afternoon Blues event at The Porter Cottage, 286 Sharrow Vale Road, Sheffield S11 8ZL, from 4pm-6pm. They've done a great flyer - same style as the Colne R & B festival! Apparently this gig has made the Sheffield Telegraph too. Come on down . . .

September 2017

  Friday 29th Originals Live at The Carriageworks, Denbigh 18:00  
A solo show of original songs by Raphael Callaghan - with two covers allowed! At the Carriageworks, Love Lane, Denbigh, North Wales, 7pm start. No bar, refreshments served in the interval. Seated audience in a gallery setting, and it doesn't finish late. Admission by donation.
  Tuesday 26th Everyman Folk Club, Cross Keys, Liverpool 19:00  
Raphael Callaghan is the booked guest at the Everyman Folk Club at the Cross Keys pub (upstairs) Earle Street, Liverpool L3 9NS, 8pm start. Residents singers are Shirley Peden, Chris Jones, and Hughie Jones\, formerly of the Spinners. Free admission - but please give generously when the hat goes round!
  Thursday 21st Hungry Horse Folk Club '60s/Beatles night 6:30  
Organiser John Owen asked me if I'd like to contribute to this '60s/Beatles themed night at the Hungry Horse and I am happy to oblige. It is held in the President's Lounge at the Whitby Club, on the corner of Chester Road/Dunkirk Lane, Ellesmere Port, Cheshire CH65 6QF. The Whitby Club itself is a huge, busy complex and a fantastic facility. Get there handy for a parking space. Free admission. (Note for the diary. Raphael Callaghan is booked for the BIG Spot at the Hungry Horse Folk Club on Thursday, February 1st, 2018).
  Sunday 3rd Fleetwood Folk & Blues Weekend 13:00  
Raphael Callaghan's final slot is at The Steamer, Queens Terrace, Fleetwood, from 2.15pm-3pm. Happy memories of great gigs there as part of Blue C. It'll be the Goodbye Blues for the festival weekend.
  Saturday 2nd Fleetwood Folk & Blues Weekend 21:30  
Raphael Callaghan has an hour slot at Strawberry Gardens (it's a pub), Poulton Road, Fleetwood, from 10.45pm-11.45pm. Some home-made blues to finish off the night . . .
  Saturday 2nd Fleetwood Folk & Blues Weekend 15:00  
Raphael Callaghan is helping to facilitate a folk and blues event at The Bug, 46 Lord Street, Fleetwood, from 4pm-6pm. Bring your instrument(s) and/or voice. Should be good!
  Friday 1st Fleetwood Folk And Blues Weekend, Frid Sep 1st to Sunday Sept 3rd 18:00  
Just had confirmation that I'm booked for the Fleetwood Folk And Blues Weekend with a host of others. It's a great line-up of singers and players and of course Fleetwood is a special place. The fish and chips!!! More details below.

August 2017

  Thursday 10th Raphael Callaghan solo show, Fringe By The Sea 16:00  
A one-hour solo show by Raphael Callaghan in the Palais Des Glaces Spiegeltent at Fringe By The Sea, North Berwick, Scotland, from 5pm-6pm on Thursday August 10th. Tickets at £10, from the Fringe By The Sea website, on sale from midday on Sat June 24th.
  Wednesday 9th Eric Bibb Band & Raphael Callaghan 19:00  
Raphael Callaghan opens with a short set for the Eric Bibb Band at Fringe By The Sea, North Berwick, Scotland, on Wednesday August 9th at 8pm. Venue is the Palais Des Glaces Spiegeltent near the harbour, an intimate venue with just 300 capacity. Tickets at £30 from the Fringe By The Sea website, on sale from midday on Sat June 24th. And they always sell out!

June 2017

  Saturday 17th Tom, Dick & Harry Band in concert 18:30  
The Tom, Dick & Harry Band (of which Raphael Callaghan is an honorary member on harmonica and backing vocals) play their annual concert in the church of Ss Cynfarch and Mary, Llanfair D.C. The church is right next to the White Horse pub in the village, which is on the A525 (Wrexham road) a couple of miles south of Ruthin. This church gig is one we really enjoy. Exclusive news - the 5-piece band will be performing songs from their brand new CD Made By Hand which will be available on the night. The concert also features a couple of guest acts. Tickets £6, pay on the door - call 01824 707506 to reserve.
  Friday 16th Soundbox 'Beatles Benefit' (in aid of dementia research and resources) 18:30  
Soundbox 'Beatles Benefit' (in aid of the Alzheimer's Society and Saltney memory cafe). Venue is Upstairs At The Lock Keeper, Chester. Raphael Callaghan is one of a group of singers supporting this worthy cause - and we are all singing Beatles and/or related songs! Mine will be bluesy and certainly 'different'. And Mike Brocken will be hosting a special Beatles quiz too. Should be a great evening of music and fun for a good cause. Tickets £5 from wegottickets.com (search SoundBox) or call 01244 342468.

May 2017

  Saturday 20th Green Room Jazz Cafe, Colwyn Bay 18:30  
Green Room Jazz Cafe, Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 7PP. RAPHAEL CALLAGHAN plays full gig there this Saturday, May 20th, music from 8pm prompt. The best venue on the North Wales coast, with great food, atmosphere and acoustics! You can reserve a table on 01492 536541.

April 2017

  Saturday 8th BABAJACK & RAPHAEL CALLAGHAN 18:30  
New monthly blues concerts at Louth Town Hall, Louth, Lincolnshire, this one featuring the fabulous Babajack with RAPHAEL CALLAGHAN in support. Advance tickets now available, £10, from louthtownhall.co.uk This is part of the new LTH Live! series of music events.

March 2017

  Friday 10th SoundBox Blues & Country Showcase 20:00  
Looks like a great night of music in concert, with two country trios and two blues soloists - The Rip Roaring Success, RAPHAEL CALLAGHAN, Jimmy Rae & The Moonshine Girls, and Iain Paterson. Venue is Upstairs At The Lock Keeper, Canal Side, Frodsham Street, Chester CH1 3LH. Admission £10, advance tickets now available from wegottickets (event number 385936).

January 2017

  Saturday 21st The Bluebird Sessions, Singer-Songwriters In Concert 19:30  
A special night of original material featuring Jonathan Smith, Cliff Howard and, finishing with his home-made blues songs, RAPHAEL CALLAGHAN. Venue is the Shiloh Community Centre, Cwm Penmachno, near Betws-y-Coed. Admission £5 (Friends of Cwm £4). Starts 8pm.

December 2016

  Monday 19th Llandegla All-Styles Music Club THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT 19:00  
It's the annual Christmas Extravaganza featuring the Tom Dick Richard Davies on lead vocals and guitar\; Harry Robertson on lead vocals and guitar, John Rowell on 6-string bass, and Raphael Callaghan on harmonica and backing vocals. Wide-ranging repertoire, and listen out for Harry, one of the best singers in North Wales, so there. Reserve your tickets before they go . . .

November 2016

  Sunday 27th Bothy Folk Club, Southport 20:00  
It's Residents' Night at the Bothy, and Raphael Callaghan, as a former resident 1966-73, has been granted special dispensation (thanks Clive!) to do a five-song set to promote his album Said And Done. The evening is also a tribute to Bothy founder Stan Ambrose. Doors open 7.30pm, music from 8pm prompt, modest admission price. The Bothy meets every Sunday at Park Golf Club, Park Road West, Southport PR9 0JS.
  Thursday 24th West Kirby Blues Club 20:00  
Raphael Callaghan launches his CD album Said And Done with this special show at West Kirby Blues Club, West Kirby Arts Centre, The Old Unitarian Church, 29 Brookfield Gardens, West Kirby, Wirral CH48 4EL. Admission £5, doors open 7.30pm. Music from 8pm prompt, plus support.

June 2016

  Tuesday 28th Green Note Open mic 19:00  
Green Note
106 Parkway, Camden, London NW1 7AN
If the Green Room at Colwyn Bay is the best roots venue on the North Wales coast (and beyond!), then the Green Note is the best in London.

I did the open mic there this week, along with 20 other singers(!) and went down really well. Mention of my forthcoming CD led to the possibility of a gig in Islington when it’s out.
Today I did the open mic at Conwy Bluegrass Festival - and went down really well, with at least 3 pre-release CD sales and possibility of a gig or two.

Thanks everyone! Hoping to get the CD booklet sorted this week . . .
  Saturday 25th Rhuddlan Community Centre 19:30  
Many congratulations to organiser Richard Davies on the mammoth success of last night's Tom Dick & Harry Band charity concert in aid of St Kentigern hospice. It was a sell-out show, and the raffle and auction did great business towards the charity proceeds too.
Thanks to our special guests Wendy, Penni, Geoff and Enid (Penni and Enid singing together a beautiful song in Welsh at the end of Enid's set brought tears to the eyes). Tom, Richard, Harry, John on bass and me on harmonica and backing vocals had a great time and the whole night was a joy from start to finish.

Compere Barry Evans from Llandegla All-Styles club held the whole thing together superbly in his usual witty style, and big thanks must go to Tom for the PA and his lovely wife Lynda for selling loads of tickets!

Thanks to everyone for their support!