Ted Milton: Post-Punk Puppeteer’s Irreverent Life and Late Parenting at 70
Ted Milton, the renowned saxophonist and poet, continues to make waves in the arts world even at the age of 82. Based in a studio in Deptford, London, he remains active with his band Blurt and is set to release a new album with his duo, the Odes. Milton, known for his vibrant personality and artistic prowess, is gearing up for a European tour while also working on new merchandise.
Ted Milton: A Journey Through Post-Punk Culture
Milton’s career spans decades of contributing to British postwar culture. His work captures a spirit of rebellion and creativity, as seen in key collaborations throughout his life. He has shared taxis with luminaries like William S. Burroughs and has been praised by friends such as Eric Clapton. Notably, he featured in Terry Gilliam’s classic film *Jabberwocky* and is rumored to have made appearances in lost works related to Pink Floyd.
Legacy of Blurt and Unique Performances
Blurt, Milton’s band, operates as a bass-less trio characterized by its energetic blends of drums, guitar, and saxophones. Critics describe their sound as raucous and unique. Musician Graham Lewis of the post-punk band Wire noted, “The groove they had was utterly fabulous.”
Late Parenting and Family Dynamics
Despite a storied career, Milton’s personal life has been complex. He has been married three times and has five children, welcoming his last child at nearly 70 years old. His son, George Milton, is directing a film titled *The Last Puppet Show*, exploring his father’s unconventional life through the lens of family and puppetry.
- Milton was raised in a boarding school after his parents moved to West Africa when he was 11.
- He found refuge in music and poetry, influenced by artists like Elvis and Little Richard.
- Milton’s early influences include the vibrant jazz scene in London and the bohemian lifestyle of the 1960s.
Milton’s puppetry assets a distinctive flair to his performances, which have often been described as humorous yet thought-provoking. His puppets have appeared in various settings, from school audiences to high-profile rock concerts. Milton’s outrageous and provocative puppetry style has left a memorable imprint on the cultural scene.
Reflections on Performance and Age
As Milton matures, he has had to adjust his performance style, occasionally performing while seated. He embraces these changes as opportunities for creativity and authenticity. Reflecting on his life, he acknowledges a transformation in his self-perception as a performer, aided by age and experience.
The upcoming year promises exciting developments for Milton. Blurt is currently touring Europe, and the Odes are set to release *Déjeuner Sous L’Herbe* on February 6. With *The Last Puppet Show* gearing up to release later this year, Ted Milton’s impact on the world of post-punk art and performance remains vibrant and enduring.
