Milton Keynes-based author announces plans to write book on history of National Bowl music venue

A Milton Keynes-based author has announced she is going to write a book on the history the city’s famed National Bowl music venue and would like the public to help with memories of shows there.

Sammy Jones has been a journalist in the new city for more than three decades, specialising in music and entertainment. She previously wrote Milton Keynes – Wired For Sound, which came out in 2021 and explored the history of the local music scene.

This time, the spotlight is focused solely on the 65,000 capacity venue which has welcomed a role call of music superstars including Queen, Foo Fighters, Black Sabbath, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Take That, Robbie Williams, Swedish House Mafia and Pendulum.

“It is such an important venue, not just locally, but nationally and internationally,” Sammy said.

“Many of the artists who have played there have fond specific memories, and the venue is a beacon in Milton Keynes. A book charting its history, and bringing together memories from those artists who have graced its stage, was long overdue.

“But the Bowl is very much our venue, and I want to share the memories and anecdotes of city residents who remember shows there for specific reasons – maybe you met the love of your life while watching Green Day, remember getting plastered in the mud bath when U2 played, or perhaps you got so drunk that you don’t remember anything at all!

“Whatever you recall, I would love you to share with me.”

Sammy – who also runs the Milton Keynes Music Archive – is also interested in any photos and memorabilia you might have from any of those shows.

She also confirmed artists have already contributed, including names such as Foo Fighters, Queen’s Brian May, Bon Jovi, Megadeth, Billy Bragg, Francis Rossi from Status Quo, and Skid Row’s Sebastian Bach.

Sammy added, “I’ve been fortunate that so many people have been happy to share their recollections of playing the venue with me, and I have some awesome never before seen images, too.

“The Bowl is a jewel in the crown of Milton Keynes and the book is a wonderful way to capture that history for everyone to enjoy. But this isn’t just about those who have played on its stage – it’s about everyone who has enjoyed time there.”

Send your submissions to [email protected] or through FB: @miltonkeyneswiredforsound