Doomed Facts About Sandy Denny, The Falling Folk Star
Sandy Denny was the folk rock British singer-songwriter who could have risen to superstardom. Instead, she threw herself down a flight of stairs.
1. She Could Have Been A Star
Music critics and British folk rock fans describe Sandy Denny as “the pre-eminent British folk rock singer” and the founder of the British rock movement. Her mesmerizing and powerful voice could have turned her into a household name, but her addiction, manic behavior, and penchant for practical pranks ended her career—and life—all too soon.
2. Her Mother Called Her Names
Denny was born in January 1947, to Neil and Edna Denny. While her father was often “aloof and distant” her mother showed her almost too much attention. She often chided Denny for being “dumpy”. The frequent insults left her with a crippling lack of self-esteem and a permanent emotional scar. One that would never truly heal.
3. She Taught Herself To Play Guitar
Denny escaped her parents by disappearing into the world of music. She displayed musical talent from the very beginning, learning to play the classical piano at Coombe Girls' School. She also picked up her brothers’ guitar and taught herself to play well enough that her father bought her a guitar of her own. Her real instrument, however, was far more innate.
4. Her Grandmother Sang To Her
Denny’s parents did not support her musical ambitions as they believed that it was impossible to make a career out of it. Her paternal grandmother, however, instilled in her a deep appreciation of traditional folk music. She used to sing songs to her in Scots Gaelic from her home in the Isle of Mull. Music was in her veins.
