Whitnash musician releases charity album in memory of his son

Bill Bates has launched his album Madhouse, with every penny raised going directly to the hospice in gratitude for the care and support his family received when his son Matthew became seriously ill.

Matthew Bates, who was a journalist and worked for titles including the Leamington Observer and Stratford Herald, died in 2016 aged 27 after a two-year battle with cancer.

He was also a musician and prior to his death he penned a collection of songs about his journey and his loved ones for his album Fightback.

Now nearly 10 years on, his father Bill has released a new album to help raise money for the Myton Hospice in Warwick who cared for Matthew.

Bill said his songwriting came to a halt during Matthew’s illness and remained unfinished following his loss.

“I had songs half-written but I completely lost the motivation to finish them,” he said. “After Matthew died, they stayed in a drawer and I honestly didn’t think I’d ever complete them.”

The project was brought back to life after a conversation with his wife, Louise, who asked for a CD of his songs as a Christmas present.

“That one simple request gave me the push I needed to go back, finish the songs and turn them into something meaningful,” Bill said.

The album features a mixture of humorous and reflective songs, each carrying personal significance and telling different stories shaped by life’s challenges and emotions.

Bill praised Myton Hospice for the support they gave Matthew and his family.

“They don’t just provide medical care. They offer kindness, dignity and incredible emotional support when families need it most,” he said.

So far more than £100 has been raised.

Madhouse is available as a physical CD or digital download, with all proceeds supporting The Myton Hospice and the services they provide to families across the region.

To make a donation or to purchase the album, go to www.justgiving.com/page/bill-bates-cd or go to: billbates.bandcamp.com/album/madhouse