A section specially reserved for interesting tales from within THE BABYS OFFICIAL UNOFFICIAL ARCHIVES. Each feature will be displayed using an array of tasty formats and will run for a few months and/or until another can be properly buttered to satisfy the pallet… In the meantime, enjoy the spread!
In March 2003, a special presentation was made to a long time unsuspecting member of THE BABYS APPRECIATION SOCIETY. Having flown to Los Angeles, all the way from Houston for the opportunity to meet THE BABYS founding member; Michael Corby, Richard would not only collect ‘The Final Stamp,’ but add an incredible show piece to his already outstanding collection of BABYS memorabilia. His name, Richard Blatt…
But first, let’s start with a bit of history!
The date was
A widely anticipated week-long series of shows featuring all the glitz and glam of the most popular entertainers of that time, and was co-hosted by a very popular John Davidson. Although THE MIKE DOUGLAS SHOW was a popular daytime variety show with a robust following, the viewers were especially keen on the once a year gala’s booked in Vegas, plus there was an already ripe climate developing due to the upcoming ALI vs. SPINKS ~ Heavy Weight Title Bout…
As the daytime extravaganza labored on, one cue card was eventually turned and the audience, mainly BABY FAN FAITHFULS, reached a fever pitch with Mike’s somewhat garbled introduction and sudden presence of a familiar piano piece:
“From their latest album…Broken Hearts…here are THE BABYS!”
~ Mike Douglas ~
The curtains quickly rose, exposing our colorfully dressed BABYS, a brilliant white upright and grand piano…
…even THE BABETTES!
~ The Mike Douglas Show stills Courtesy of APB Archives ~
This performance firmly cemented THE BABYS as challengers to the Rock ‘n’ Roll throne…
Paying special attention now to the attire of Mr. Corby, wearing a satin cream colored gentlemen’s garment, crimson red vest adorned with silver stars that would appear in numerous published magazine photos…
~ Studded Vest by World Renowned London Tailor Peter Golding ~
Courtesy of Richard Blatt Collection
Enter now a soon to be knighted ~ Sir Richard Blatt!
Shortly after ‘the dinner’ Michael invited a few back to his graciously hosted living quarters and our guest was about to receive ‘The Bounty.’ So, without further adieu, videotape is rolling and a few enthusiastic voices chanting his name (to insure a truly embarrassing moment), a dramatic presentation took place. As Michael pulled these magnificent show pieces out of a well worn travel bag, a broad smile began to appear on Sir Richard’s face…
Michael: “Bear with the embarrassment for just a moment Richard; I’ve got something to offer for your loyalty in putting this massive effort to come here”
Sir Richard: “Oh, WOW…Thank You!”
Michael: “You’ll see this in loads of pictures, wore them both in Las Vegas, done… they're all yours”
Sir Richard: “Thank you so much… I’m very touched”
With Michael handing Sir Richard the very same travel bag, the presentation winds down with a series of humorous anecdotes, notably that of our gracious host and ‘PROVIDENTIAL’ founder…
“Yes…but the bag will cost you a hundred dollars”
~ Ken Sharp ~
Sir Richard has met ALL members of THE BABYS and continues to keep the lines of friendship open, traveling often to see them perform, whether it be a casual visit with Tony Brock, a STYX concert now featuring Ricky Phillips, Jonathan Cain hamming it up with the reformed JOURNEY or maybe even an acoustical performance by John Waite.
“THE BABYS are very special to me and I just try to be a friend. It brings me great joy to be able to pick up the telephone or offer a quick email with a brief Hello…I guess I’m just a simpleton”
~ Sir Richard Blatt ~
~ The Final Stamp Courtesy of Unknown Fan ~
“By trade, Richard is a highly respected School Teacher [and Editor], which might answer the question as to why he possesses the unique ability to communicate with BABYS FANS abroad. A loyal friend and great source of inspiration, especially in the early stages of Michael’s re-emergence in 1999”
~ Perky ~
Richard Blatt is probably the last person to meet and be photographed with Wally Stocker, who now requests a quiet life away from the trappings of his Rock ‘n Roll Fame ‘n Fantasy
~ Photograph by Tony Brock Courtesy of Richard Blatt Collection ~
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