Neil Innes
The Seventh Python
Sunday, May 2nd
7:00 pm
Neil is an English writer and performer of comic songs, best known for his collaborative work with Monty Python, and for playing in the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band and later The Rutles. His early career included successes like "I'm An Urban Spaceman" and "Death Cab For Cutie" which was included on the Beatles album and movie, "Magical Mystery Tour".
In the mid-1970s, Neil became closely associated with the TV series Monty Python's Flying Circus, and played a major role in performing and writing songs and sketches for the final series in 1974.
Neil wrote the songs for Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and appeared in the film as a head-bashing monk, the serf crushed by the giant wooden rabbit, and the leader of Sir Robin's minstrels. He also appeared at their legendary Hollywood Bowl concert. Because of these long-standing connections, Neil is often referred to as "the Seventh Python".
He appeared on stage with the Pythons in New York City in 1975, performing the Bob Dylanesque song "Protest Song" (complete with harmonica) on the album Monty Python Live at City Centre. He was introduced as Raymond Scum. After his introduction he told the audience "I've suffered for my music. Now it's your turn." In 1982 he travelled to the States with the Pythons again, appearing in Monty Python Live at the Hollywood Bowl. He performed the songs "How Sweet to Be an Idiot" and "I'm the Urban Spaceman."
In 1974, Neil Innes and Eric Idle created The Rutles (the "prefab four"), a Beatles parody band, in which Neil played the character of Ron Nasty. After The Rutles, Idle relocated to the USA, and Neil went on to make a solo series on BBC television, The Innes Book of Records (punning on the Guinness Book of Records).
Neil also took part in the 2002 Concert for George, in memory of George Harrison.
This is the first time Neil Innes has performed Live in Arizona in over eight years - check him out in the intimacy of
the Platinum Room at Skye.
