STP Records’ “Uncle” Stu Taylor R.I.P.

The sad news that ‘Uncle’ Stu Taylor has passed away has reached The Punk Site. Stu was a good natured force of nature on the UK punk scene, whether it was through his label, STP Records, the gigs he put on at Manchester’s Star & Garter, which contributed in no small part to the survival of the landmark venue, or his ever present welcoming smile on the merch stalls at Rebellion Festival. I never knew him to be anything but a gentleman with an enthusiasm for music that never waned, over the years I’ve exchanged countless emails with him, and always encountered him wherever loud music was playing, always friendly, polite and always, always greeted me as “young man” when I saw him at shows, which is far from the truth, but that in essence was Stu, he always made people feel good about themselves. Stu will be missed more than he will ever know as the flood of tributes to him across social media only hint as the positive impact he had on countless lives. The Punk Site send its condolences to his family, friends and to pretty much everyone I know, as everyone knew “Uncle” Stu Taylor, and nobody ever had a bad word to say about him. Rest in peace Stu.

“We have heavy hearts at Rebellion tonight. It is always difficult when we lose anyone from our wonderful global scene but doubly difficult when we lose one of our family. Stu Taylor was a huge part of Rebellion, for over a decade he was the friendly face at our merch stall and a friend to all that come to the festival. He was so much more than that though, he worked tirelessly with us throughout the year on new ideas and kept everything running smoothly in the merch department. Above all of that, he was our friend. We all loved him and I can honestly say in all of the years I’ve known him, I never heard anyone with a bad word to say about him. He leaves our scene with a huge void that I know will take some healing from. Our love goes out to Sam, Barbara and all of his family in this difficult time. There will come a time to raise a glass to him and celebrate the wonderful man and the wonderful life he led. For now, look after yourselves and each other, snuggle in tight and don’t forget to tell those close that you love them. We love you.” (Rebellion Festival)