Fuzz to Folk

In Fuzz to Folk Ian Green chronicles his life so far; from Nation Service call-up to regular Army Service, to 30 years as a policeman and finally to founder of Greentrax, Scotland's leading traditional music label. Green has played a significant role in the resurgence and vitality of traditional and folk music in Scotland. His inspirational autobiography includes details of his involvement in the careers of Brian McNeill, Dick Gaughan, the McCalmans, Eric Bogle and many others. With Green's unique insight, Fuzz to Folk is an authority on the Scottish folk scene, and a fascinating glimpse into the life of the policeman on the street.

Ian Green Dr Ian Green Hon. Doc. RSAMD was born in Forres, Morayshire in 1934, the son of a Highland piper and head gardener. The changing life in rural Scotland resulted in many moves until the family finally relocated to Edinburgh where Ian completed his education. He followed his father into gardening and began an apprenticeship. When National Service beckoned, Ian signed for three years in the army, serving as a vehicle mechanic in the reme, including two years in Korea and Japan. He was demobbed in 1955 holding the rank of full corporal. Another change of direction saw Ian join Edinburgh City Police, later Lothian and Borders Police, in which he served 30 years. During this time, he married his wife June and raised three children. Ian gained wide police experience in various specialised departments before being promoted to sergeant and latterly inspector, retiring in 1985. During his service Ian pursued an interest in folk music and was involved in many aspects of the music as organiser of the Police Folk Club (Fuzzfolk), co-editor of Sandy Bell's Broadsheet, co-founder of the Edinburgh Folk Club, concert promoter and assistant to Dr John Barrow, director of the Edinburgh Folk Festival. In between times, Ian found time to grow and exhibit award-winning chrysanthemums, and represent Scotland in the Annual International Angling Match. In 1986, Ian launched Greentrax Recordings which has become one of the most successful independent record labels in the UK. Many awards have been bestowed upon Ian, including the Hamish Henderson Award for services to traditional music, entry into the Scots Trad Awards Hall of Fame, and culminating in an honorary doctorate from the RSAMD in 2006. This autobiography looks at Ian's active, varied and interesting life as he turned 76 years of age.