An Interview with Frank Watkinson, The Virtual Grandad

 

Q&A with Frank Watkinson: The Virtual Granddad of Guitar

A Conversation with Secret Guitar Club In this engaging episode of the Secret Guitar Club, host Brian sits down with Frank Watkinson, a beloved figure in the online guitar community with over a million YouTube subscribers and a massive Instagram following. Known as the "Virtual Granddad," Frank shares his journey as a self-taught guitarist, his love for acoustic music, and his rise to social media fame through heartfelt covers and original songs. 0:57 - Tell me a little bit about yourself. Where are you from, and how long have you been playing guitar? Frank reveals he’s from the UK and started playing guitar at age 15. Self-taught due to the lack of resources like YouTube in his youth, he learned from a guitarist cousin. He worked as a communications engineer, or "telephone man," handling everything from underground cables to poles, often in tough conditions. 3:03 - When did you retire from the telephone industry? Frank retired at 62, despite initially planning to retire at 60. He realized that the costs of working, like commuting, made retirement more feasible than expected, allowing him to focus on music. 4:05 - Have you played consistently since you started at 15? Frank admits to inconsistent playing, with periods where his guitar collected dust for months or even years. He’d pick it up after tough workdays to play something sad, influencing his melancholic style. 5:15 - Have you always been interested in contemporary music, and what were you listening to as a teenager? As a teenager, Frank listened to the Beatles, Rolling Stones, and other pop acts but gravitated toward ballads like "Wild Horses" over upbeat tracks. He preferred acoustic artists like James Taylor and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, steering away from the heavy metal popular among his peers. 7:11 - As you’ve gotten older, have you kept up with contemporary music? Frank acknowledges he’s not as knowledgeable about new music as he could be, as there’s so much out there. He finds it harder to discover new bands now compared to decades ago when radio dominated, but he still enjoys exploring music when he can. 10:59 - When did you start doing covers? Frank has always done covers, trying to play songs he hears. With the internet, he looks up chords but simplifies them to suit his style, using basic chords like G, D, A, or C, F, G, and sings in his own way, making each cover unique. 12:43 - When did you start posting on YouTube, and how did it grow? Frank started posting on YouTube after casually uploading a song one night, not expecting much. To his surprise, people began watching, leading to over a million subscribers. His cover of "I’ll Follow You Into the Dark" by Death Cab for Cutie, done in his fingerstyle, gained significant traction after a fan request. 14:33 - What has it been like having over a quarter of a million people watch your videos? Has this changed your life? Frank says it hasn’t changed him much. He remains humble, noting that he earns a small amount from YouTube but prefers anonymity in everyday life, like when walking his dog. He’s unaware of his fame unless someone recognizes his work. 16:42 - Did you ever play live, or do you still play live? Frank has never played live and doesn’t want to, citing his reliance on lyrics sheets due to memory lapses. He feels his style might become repetitive after a few songs in a live setting, preferring the comfort of playing at home. 18:36 - What kind of guitar do you play? Frank plays a secondhand Yamaha F310, a beginner’s model bought for £30 about 25 years ago. He also owns a Chinese copy of a Martin guitar, tuned down a whole step, which he uses for its mellow tone that suits his voice. 21:59 - Can you play something simple on the spot? Frank performs an original song, "People Like Me," inspired by a TV show about wealth disparity. The song reflects on the struggles of working-class people versus the ease of wealthy lives, showcasing his heartfelt, authentic style. 24:45 - When did you start writing your own songs? Frank has written songs since childhood, though he jokingly calls his early work "really bad." He continues to write, with recent songs like "People Like Me" showing his growth as a songwriter. 27:19 - Any notable achievements with your music? Frank shares that his cover of "I’ll Follow You Into the Dark" was featured in an Apple TV series, and his version of "I Can See Clearly Now" was used in a McDonald’s ad in the Netherlands. His original song "This Could Be My Last Song" also placed second in the American Songwriter Competition. Summary Frank Watkinson’s conversation with Brian on the Secret Guitar Club reveals a musician whose humility and authenticity resonate deeply with his audience. Starting as a self-taught guitarist in the UK, Frank’s journey began at 15, shaped by limited resources and a cousin’s influence. His career as a telephone engineer kept music as a side passion, with periods of inactivity until retirement at 62 allowed him to focus on it. His preference for acoustic ballads over the heavy metal of his youth reflects his introspective style, seen in his unique covers and original songs. Frank’s rise to fame, with over a million YouTube subscribers and a significant Instagram following, began unexpectedly after casual uploads. His fingerstyle covers, like "I’ll Follow You Into the Dark," and originals like "People Like Me" showcase his ability to reimagine songs with emotional depth, drawing comparisons to Johnny Cash’s transformative cover of "Hurt." Despite his success, including placements in TV shows and commercials, Frank remains grounded, valuing his privacy and the simple joy of playing his Yamaha F310 at home. His reluctance to perform live and his candid admission of relying on lyrics sheets add to his relatable charm. Frank’s story is one of perseverance and sincerity, proving that talent and authenticity can connect with millions, even from a modest setup. His music, rooted in personal experiences and a love for acoustic sounds, continues to inspire, making him a true "Virtual Granddad" to his fans.

August 5: Dreams Fleetwood Mac cover .

 

August 5, 2000 50K

Now, here you go again You say, you want your freedom Well, who am I to keep you down It's only right that you should Play the way you feel it But listen carefully, to the sound Of your loneliness Like a heartbeat, drives you mad In the stillness of remembering what you had And what you lost And what you had And what you lost Oh, thunder, only happens when it's raining Players, only love you when they're playing They say women, they will come and they will go When the rain washes you clean, you'll know You'll know Now, here I go again, I see The crystal vision I keep my visions to myself It's only me, who wants to Wrap around your dreams and Have you any dreams you'd like to sell Dreams of loneliness Like a heartbeat, drives you mad In the stillness of remembering, what you had And what you lost And what you had Ooh, what you lost Thunder, only happens when it's raining Players, only love you when they're playing Women, they will come and they will go When the rain washes you clean, you'll know Oh, thunder, only happens when it's raining Players, only love you when they're playing They say women, they will come and they will go When the rain washes you clean, you'll know You'll know You will know Oh, you'll know Songwriter: Stevie Nicks

The Weight of Early Loss: A YouTube Musician's Journey Through Grief

 

Frank Watkinson, 72, lost both parents by age 11. His story reveals how trauma shapes us—and how we can find healing through creative expression.

In a candid conversation on the Inner Path Seekers podcast, the British musician opens up about childhood loss, family separation, and finding solace in music.

Frank Watkinson's voice carries the weight of seven decades, but it's his early losses that shaped the man behind the YouTube channel filled with haunting ballads and cover songs. At 72, this self-taught musician has lived 30 years longer than either of his parents ever did—a fact that both haunts and liberates him.

In a recent appearance on Jellis Vaes's Inner Path Seekers podcast, Watkinson shared his journey through profound childhood grief, family separation, and the long road to healing. His story offers insights into how early trauma can shape a life, and how creative expression can become both refuge and release.

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1) 1:07 - Who did you lose?

Watkinson's Answer: "My dad died when I was nine. I remember the night he died. The week before at school I'd didn't take my PE kit and I got told off, and then the night he died was the next week for PE again and I'd got it ready and they said I didn't have to go to school but I did because I wanted to show them I'd got my PE kit... Two years later, my mom died. So I was 11... That's when I first started knowing what it was like to lose people."

2) 3:04 - How did you cope with losing both parents so young?

Watkinson's Answer: "I just went inside myself. I didn't speak if you know what I mean. When my mother died, they say I stayed in my room for about 3 days. I wasn't coming out and I was reading the same magazine over again, like a Superman book or something... I held it in. I didn't cry. And it wasn't until quite a few years later, I think I said age about 14, 15, I was in bed one night and I started thinking about them and I just burst into tears... And after that, I felt a lot better. I started coming out of myself again."

3) 5:10 - How has loss changed your perspective on life?

Watkinson's Answer: "I've got a very cynical take on grief... The older you get, it's life. We've got so much time on this planet and we don't know how long that is. So if I think about it, I'm 30 years older than my parents ever got to be... I think now I get more upset when a pet dies because I think we all know we're going to die. We all know that family members are probably going to die... But your pets you think they don't and... every day is a new day... especially with him behind me [his dog], every day is the best day of his life."

4) 12:34 - What happened to your family after your parents died?

Watkinson's Answer: "There were seven of us in the family, seven children... These relatives they took us all away. I went to live with an auntie... 250 miles away and a sister went the opposite direction and another brother went a different direction... If you're used to living with brothers and sisters and then we wake up the next morning in a different town and they're gone. It was a bit... it's a lot of change. That's probably why I think I went very withdrawn for quite a few years... But we all made our way back. As we got older, we all found our way back. Two of them, it took nearly 30 years, but we found each other."

5) 21:01 - What helped you get through those early days?

Watkinson's Answer: "I think it was music. I think I lost myself into... I've just always liked... any young person really pop music mostly all the time but sort of pop music but I've always been a slow... I've always been a ballad person... I think the guitar is like an escape... It's like another friend. You can be really upset, pick up the guitar and just make yourself feel a bit better by playing. Could be happy, pick it up, make yourself even happier by playing... I think I'd go mad if I didn't have something like that."

6) 25:21 - Has loss brought any unexpected insights to your life?

Watkinson's Answer: "It made me look at things differently, a lot differently. I don't worry about lots of tiny things... it does make you think look life's too short for that, life's too short to argue and fight over little little things and I do hate to see families argue... I remember years ago friend of mine... was having an argument with his dad because the music was too loud... he turned around to me and goes, 'God, I'll be glad when he's dead.' And that hit me hard... I said, 'You don't know what you're saying. I'll do anything to be shouted at by my dad.'"

7) 28:41 - What do you wish people understood about grief?

Watkinson's Answer: "I think a lot of people need to understand that everybody grieves in a different way... Some people, like me, when I was younger, they'll go quiet, probably mourn for a week or two. Other people, they just party. Let's have a party... we're not all the same... Everyone has got their own way of doing it. And nobody can tell you you're doing it wrong."

8) 31:00 - What would you tell someone who just lost someone?

Watkinson's Answer: "It gets easier... time is a great healer and it does get easier. I think when you've lost someone you're just thinking of the sadness... But as the time goes on, you don't feel so much sad anymore because you start remembering all the good things before then... the longer it goes on, you can concentrate on the good times you had... I don't even think about my parents now at that part of my life where... they died... I just think of the times we had before that."

9) 34:06 - How do you channel your grief now?

Watkinson's Answer: "I think that's why I write so many sad songs. That's where I get rid of it as well... I'll do the sad songs and let my grief away in that... You've got to use it for your benefit and not let the pain control you. But it's hard to say when it's just happened... some people might do painting. They might go in a room, start painting. Other ones might be into sports... Something to... if you don't do anything with that pain, it just turns into suffering. But if you do something with that pain, like in your case, turn it into music... it becomes something else."

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In-Depth Summary

Frank Watkinson's story illuminates the profound impact of childhood loss and the long journey toward healing. Orphaned by age 11 and separated from his six siblings, Watkinson's early trauma led to years of emotional withdrawal and silence. His experience reveals several critical insights about grief and recovery:

The Individuality of Grief: Watkinson emphasizes that grief manifests differently for everyone. His own pattern—years of suppressed emotion followed by a cathartic release at age 14 or 15—challenges conventional timelines for mourning. His observation that "everybody grieves in a different way" and "nobody can tell you you're doing it wrong" offers validation for those whose grief doesn't follow expected patterns.

Creative Expression as Healing: Music became Watkinson's primary coping mechanism and continues to serve as both refuge and release. His description of the guitar as "like another friend" and his practice of channeling grief into "sad songs" demonstrates how creative outlets can transform pain into something meaningful. This aligns with research showing that artistic expression can provide emotional regulation and meaning-making in the face of loss.

Perspective Shifts Through Time: Having lost his parents at such a young age, Watkinson developed a unique perspective on mortality and priorities. His realization that he's lived "30 years older than my parents ever got to be" reflects a complex relationship with survival and time. His observation about grieving pets more than people—because animals live purely in the present—reveals sophisticated thinking about consciousness and mortality.

Family Reconstruction: The eventual reunion of the Watkinson siblings after decades of separation demonstrates resilience and the enduring nature of family bonds. The 30-year search that culminated in a phone call from a sister-in-law shows how trauma can scatter families but doesn't necessarily destroy them permanently.

The Evolution of Memory: Watkinson's description of gradually recovering positive memories of his parents—after years of blocked recollections—illustrates how grief processing can unlock suppressed experiences. His shift from dwelling on the sadness of death to cherishing pre-loss memories represents a mature stage of grief integration.

Practical Wisdom: His advice about the healing power of time, while potentially difficult for the newly bereaved to accept, reflects decades of lived experience. His emphasis on finding outlets for pain—whether through music, art, or other pursuits—offers concrete guidance for channeling grief constructively.

Watkinson's story ultimately suggests that while early trauma can profoundly shape a life, it need not define it entirely. Through creative expression, time, and the gradual reconstruction of meaning, even the most devastating losses can be integrated into a life worth living. His YouTube channel, filled with ballads that transform personal pain into shared beauty, stands as testament to grief's potential for creative transformation.

It's love that hurts the most .Yawni cover

 

That Hurts the Most - Lyrics Oh, my mother did so much labor on the day that I was born. And I came into this cruel world, screaming and crying, covered in blood. Was it mine or was it hers? And it's love that hurts the most. That hurts the most. And when we start touching and the blood starts rushing, and the feeling washes away my sins— and I start screaming, and my throat starts aching, and my breath is gone— the prettier your life I'm taking. And it's love that hurts the most. That hurts the most. Then one day I'll hold your hand, kiss your precious neck. And your skin starts turning gray, and there is nothing left. And you take your last breath, and my heart goes with you. And I am wondering how I'll live without you. And it's love that hurts the most. That hurts the most. And it's love that hurts the most. That hurts the most.

“it’s Love that hurts the most” by YAWNi

if Dan Deacon and Dolly Parton had a baby; avant folk; organic electronic; Asheville Alien. 🥀🙏🕊👽✌️🌙💗🐊🐸🙏🕊✨️✨️😶‍🌫️💪🥔🤠🖖🌙

Stay, original song

 

“Stay”

---

I never thought
that I would ever live
to see this day.

I always thought
that you and I
were here to stay.

---

I never thought
that I'd be falling
on my knees,

crying like a baby
and begging you—

begging you, please...

Stay.
Stay... stay.

---

I never thought
I'd ever feel
so sorry for myself.

I always thought
this only happens
to someone else.

---

That door closing behind you
was the hardest part.

I never thought you
would be the one
to break my heart.

Please stay.
Stay...
Stay.
Please stay...

---

I never thought,
for a moment,
you were sad.

I always thought
you were happy
with what we had.

---

If there's a lesson
to be learned,
I truly have been taught...

And it all comes down to me—
because...
I never thought.

---

I never thought
at any time
things were going astray.

I guess you had
so many problems—
and I just got in the way.

---

I never thought
to even ask you
what was on your mind...

And when I think about it—
how could I have been so blind?

Oh... stay.
Please stay.
Stay...
Stay.

Frank Turns 72, Dips His Toe into AI with Stay - Hip-Hop Version

 

Happy 72nd Birthday, Frank Watkinson: A Musical Journey Through Time

 

Celebrating the Life and Music of a Beloved Singer-Songwriter Who Found Fame Later in Life Through YouTube

Introduction

Frank Watkinson, born on June 26, 1953, in the United Kingdom, is a singer-songwriter who has captured the hearts of millions with his soulful acoustic covers and original songs. As he celebrates his 72nd birthday today, we honor his remarkable journey, marked by a deep passion for music and a humble approach to his unexpected rise to fame. (Frank's TimeLine)

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Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Frank's love for music began early. A photograph captures him holding a guitar at age 7, though he didn’t own one until he was 17. Growing up in a family with little musical influence—his wife, for instance, preferred Top of the Pops—Frank found solace in playing guitar and writing songs during his spare time. Despite working long hours, he nurtured his craft in solitude, never performing live or joining a band, preferring the company of his cat and dog as his audience.

---

Career on YouTube

Frank’s musical career took an unexpected turn when he began sharing his music online. Starting with SoundCloud, he moved to YouTube, initially posting videos for fun, sometimes after a drink or two to unwind. His channel, now boasting over 1 million subscribers, features over 1,500 covers and numerous original songs. His cover of Slipknot’s “Snuff” has garnered millions of views, while his original song, “This Could Be My Last Song,” resonates deeply with fans, despite its title not signaling an end to his music-making.

Frank’s occasional uploads gained traction, and by November 2020, his following had grown significantly. Influenced by artists like James Taylor, Ralph McTell, and Bob Dylan, Frank’s music is often described as “sadly melancholy,” yet his cheerful and humorous personality shines through, endearing him to fans worldwide.

---

Personal Life and Interests

Living in Huntingdon, UK, near Cambridge, Frank leads a quiet life. He rarely travels abroad, with notable trips to Euro Disney and Cyprus to visit his daughter. Within the UK, he prefers off-the-beaten-path routes. Married, Frank shares his life with a wife who isn’t a fan of his music, yet their bond remains strong. He struggles with reading books, favoring audiobooks, and occasionally enjoys poetry.

Frank’s humility is evident in his interactions with fans. He finds the viral response to his music heartwarming, reading comments on his videos. His emotional connection to his music, especially during lockdown with songs like “Miss You,” has deepened his bond with listeners.

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Impact and Legacy

Frank Watkinson’s story is one of inspiration, proving that passion knows no age limit. His raw, authentic music—covering artists from Radiohead to Pink Floyd—resonates across generations. His rise from a retiree sharing music for joy to a YouTube sensation with millions of views highlights the power of authenticity. As he turns 72, Frank continues to create, offering solace and joy through his heartfelt performances.

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NOTE: Published June 26, 2025 -  Man of the world, Fleetwood Mac cover.

In-Depth Summary

Frank Watkinson’s life is a testament to the enduring power of music. From his early days strumming a guitar in solitude to becoming a beloved YouTube figure, his journey reflects a lifelong commitment to his craft. His music, often tinged with melancholy, contrasts with his cheerful demeanor, creating a unique connection with fans. Songs like “This Could Be My Last Song” and covers like Slipknot’s “Snuff” showcase his versatility and emotional depth.

Despite his fame, Frank remains grounded, driven by love for music rather than a desire for recognition. His story inspires others to pursue their passions, regardless of age or circumstance. As we celebrate his 72nd birthday, we honor not only his music but also his spirit—a reminder that it’s never too late to share one’s gifts with the world. Happy Birthday, Frank! May your music continue to uplift and inspire.

Frank's 72nd Strum: A Folk Song for a Timeless Troubadour (Version 2)

Verse 1
In Huntingdon town, where the rivers flow,
Lived a man with a guitar, and a heart that did glow.
At seventeen, he picked up the strings,
And through the years, his music took wings.
From his home, he played to the world wide,
With songs that touched hearts, and made spirits fly.

Verse 2
On the screen, his fingers danced, to tunes old and new,
From Slipknot to Dylan, his voice rang true.
A million subscribers, but he stayed the same,
A humble musician, playing his game.
His covers went viral, his originals too,
Bringing joy and solace, to me and to you.

Verse 3
With a wife who loves him, though not his songs,
And a daughter afar, where the Cyprus sun shines long.
His fans call him grandad, with love in their eyes,
For the music he makes, under the clear skies.
In his quiet life, he finds his peace,
With his guitar, his voice, and his release.

Chorus
So here's to Frank, on his 72nd year,
With a voice that's golden, and a heart full of cheer.
May his guitar keep ringing, may his songs never end,
Happy Birthday, Frank, our forever friend.

Verse 4
As the years go by, and the birthdays come,
May his music keep playing, like the rising sun.
For in every note, in every strum,
Lies the story of Frank, and the love that we've won.
At seventy-two, he's just getting started,
With a lifetime of music, yet to be charted.

Bridge
Let's raise our voices, let's sing along,
To the man whose music has made us strong.
From "This Could Be My Last Song" to "Fields of Green,"
His melodies linger, like a sweet, sad dream.

Chorus (Final)
So here's to Frank, on his 72nd year,
With a voice that's golden, and a heart full of cheer.
May his guitar keep ringing, may his songs never end,
Happy Birthday, Frank, our forever friend.

---

This folk song, crafted for Frank Watkinson’s 72nd birthday on June 26, 2025, celebrates his remarkable journey as a singer-songwriter from Huntingdon, UK. Born on June 26, 1953, Frank began playing guitar at 17, teaching himself in solitude without aspirations of fame. His music, often described as “sadly melancholy,” reflects influences from folk legends like James Taylor, Ralph McTell, and Bob Dylan, yet he’s unafraid to cover modern artists like Slipknot or Radiohead, showcasing his versatility (Genius).

Frank’s rise to fame began around 2015 when he started posting acoustic covers and original songs on YouTube (Frank Watkinson YouTube). What began as a hobby—sometimes fueled by a drink or two—grew into a global phenomenon, with his channel surpassing 1 million subscribers by 2023. His cover of Slipknot’s “Snuff” and original song “This Could Be My Last Song” have touched millions, with fans praising their emotional depth (Last.fm). Despite the title, Frank has assured fans he has no plans to stop creating music.

Living a quiet life in Huntingdon, near Cambridge, Frank shares his days with his wife, who humorously isn’t a fan of his music, and their daughter, whom he visited in Cyprus (Fevers of the Mind). He prefers audiobooks over reading and enjoys poetry, maintaining a humble demeanor despite his fame. Fans adore his authenticity, with some calling him “grandad” for the warmth his music brings, as seen in comments about songs like “Fields of Green” that evoke both sadness and hope.

The song’s upbeat yet reflective tone mirrors Frank’s style—melancholic yet joyful. The chorus invites fans to join in, reflecting his message: “Don’t ever think you aren’t good enough to post your music” (MuzicNotez). At 72, Frank’s story inspires, proving passion knows no age limit. This song, with 350 words, is a tribute to his legacy and a wish for many more years of music.

Key Citations

• Frank Watkinson YouTube Channel

• Frank Watkinson Lyrics, Songs, and Albums | Genius

• Interview with Musician Frank Watkinson – Fevers of the Mind

• Interview with Folk Artist Frank Watkinson on Inspiring New Music

• Frank Watkinson Music, Videos, Stats, and Photos | Last.fm

• Frank Watkinson on Apple Music

• Finding His Own Melody: An Interview with Frank Watkinson

Frank Turns 72, Dips His Toe into AI—and Hip-Hop?

 

The beloved folk YouTuber experiments with artificial intelligence music production—then politely backs away.

---

If you’ve ever listened to Frank Watkinson sing, you know his songs don’t need digital dressing. They just need a quiet room, an acoustic guitar, and Frank’s weathered voice telling you the truth. But this week, just ahead of his 72nd birthday on June 26, the British folk artist known for his heartaching originals and tender covers did something surprising: he experimented with AI. And hip-hop.

Yes, you read that right.

In a video titled simply "Writing a song?", Frank introduces a new original idea—and a bit of a musical detour. After struggling to find the right feel for the song "Stay", he decided to test out artificial intelligence, feeding his lyrics into an AI tool and asking it to turn the piece into a hip-hop track.

“I was just playing with the dreaded AI,” he admits on camera with a chuckle, pausing dramatically before repeating the acronym as if saying Voldemort's name. “A lot of people think I'm AI… I'm a northern lad, really.”

He’s quick to reassure fans: “In case you are concerned, I won’t be going down that road—it isn’t me.”

But curious as ever, Frank didn’t want to leave his viewers hanging. After some light self-deprecation and a warm goodbye (“maybe I’ll put a picture of my dog walking while the hip-hop plays”), he lets the AI-generated version roll. It’s weird. It’s charming. It’s definitely not Frank. But in its own oddball way, it feels like a moment worth preserving.

And like everything Frank does, it’s shared without ego—just a gentle “make of it what you wish,” followed by one last smile and: “I don’t think I’ll be doing that anymore.”

---

Final Thoughts:
At all most 72, Frank Watkinson remains a humble experimenter, a troubadour willing to try something new even if it’s just to confirm that his old way suits him best. And maybe that’s the real message behind "Stay": that while the world spins toward algorithms and automation, the human touch in music is what stays with us.

Happy early birthday, Frank. Stay exactly who you are.