Rocking Surrey: A History of Suburban Rock ‘n’ Roll

Talk by Neil Mach

Neil uncovers why Surrey has been a hub for rock artists. He explains why he believes leafy suburbia has produced such talented individuals. Surrey has been home to the world’s greatest musicians, from punk rock legends to progressive rock heroes; the three 'greatest' blues guitarists in the world came from Surrey, and supergroups like the Beatles and the Rolling Stones made Surrey their home. This talk will definitely make audiences laugh and reminisce about the 'Golden Years of Rock 'n' Roll' as the speaker uncovers some surprising connections between Rock 'n' Roll and the County of Surrey.

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After retiring from over 35 years in public service, Neil became an internationally recognised author/journalist in the music industry. He founded the ‘Rock Pen’ school to nurture aspiring music writers and made valuable contributions to various esteemed publications, newsletters, and blogs.
During 2021, Neil curated a highly acclaimed exhibition on the ‘Coronation Charts’, which marked the beginning of the pop record charts in British music history. In 2024, Neil arranged a temporary exhibition that focused on Led Zeppelin in 1969. He later conducted presentations on the same subject, and wrote a book on the 'history of suburban rock 'n' roll'.
Neil hosts his own podcast (now in its fifth year, with over 125 episodes broadcast), and he makes regular TV appearances and frequent guest appearances on radio and podcasts.

Last Updated on 22nd October 2026