John Sicolo RIP.

TJ's music venue owner John Sicolo dies in hospital

John Sicolo, pictured at TJ's in 2005 Tributes have been paid to the owner of one of Wales' best known rock venues, who has died at the age of 66. John Sicolo opened TJ's in Newport nearly 40 years ago and was a favourite of the late DJ John Peel. Oasis, Echo and The Bunnymen, Manic Street Preachers and Primal Scream were among bands who appeared there. Music promoter Julian Blake paid tribute to Mr Sicolo, saying: "He was a legend who brought many bands to Newport." In recent years the venue has struggled financially, and Mr Sicolo had been planning to auction memorabilia from the club to keep it open. A benefit concert was also in the pipeline. Mr Blake added: "He put Newport on the global music map to the extent that Newport was said to be the new Seattle." Mr Sicolo had been in hospital this week for a replacement knee operation. **I remember meeting John who insisted on doing the food for my wedding reception which we held in his pub Langton's.  A marvelous day and nothing was to much trouble for John, a friendly fun bloke. I used to pop in on occasions for years after to the pub  for a chat with him and his staff. RIP John.

.