He’s best known for the 1980 tribute song by Dexy’s Midnight Runners, but you can see the man himself when Geno Washington comes to Cumbria later this year.

Geno was the second single by Dexys and their first UK number one, telling the story of how the legendary Washington was an inspiration and the song captured the big brass sound that had made Washington so popular.

Washington was a US airman stationed in the UK in the Sixties when he formed his Ram Jam Band and became huge stars on the live circuit.

Now 75, he’s still producing foot-stomping soul and still enjoys cult status on the soul, blues, R&B and Northern Soul scenes today due to his reputation as a live performer, his magnetic stage presence and his love of performance.

He plays the Old Fire Station, Carlisle, on December 6. For tickets, go to www.oldfirestation.carlisle.city or call 01228 598596