The recent death of Al Turner (June 5, 2026) has robbed the world of a vast store of musical knowledge in the hillbilly and rockabilly fields.  He had been in hospital since Christmas, but the medical profession failed to save him from the rare Castleman’s Disease and he died just short of his 76th birthday. A man of strong beliefs, he was a socialist and a vegan but never imposed his beliefs on friends and acquaintances. He was always great company with a good sense of humour. His circle of friends included Ian Sadder, the late Phil Tricker, Adam Komorowski, the late Bob Jones, John Burton, Dick Grant, Malcolm Chapman, and many others around the world including Europe and the USA. Many of these he never met personally, but kept in touch with thanks to the advent of the internet.
He initially worked as a train driver on London’s Underground on the Northern Line.  He was also a Councillor on Barnet Council for a number of years. He became a contributor to New Kommotion in the late 70s and in the 80s joined Phil Tricker and Ian Saddler in running Roll Street Journal. He then launched the Hillbilly Researcher magazine in conjunction with Phil Tricker which contained articles and discogs as well as label listings.  The Hillbilly Researcher brand eventually extended to a record label that saw over 80 release. And finally it gave birth to a website of the same name.  At some point Al started working for Phil Tricker, keeping an inventory of his stock and generally helping out with the running of Phil’s business. He accompanied Phil on buying trips abroad.
Always willing to share his vast musical knowledge, Al contributed to Cees Klop’s “Boppin’ Hillbilly” series on White label.  He was also heavily involved in the BACM (British Association of Country Music) label which has run to over 700 releases.  He also compiled releases on the Ace label.  Bear Family Records often consulted him. The list is endless. Nobody was turned away, Al gladly shared his knowledge with one and all.  A man with a great sense of humour, the world is a poorer place without him.

Adam Komorowski, June 2026

Thanks Adam, Richard Weize