Ian Prowse, the former frontman of 1990s band Pele, wrote the song 'Does This Train Stop On Merseyside?' which has become an anthem for the city of Liverpool. The song was played on Radio 1 by John Peel, who said it moved him to tears.

The song's inspiration came from the story of William McKenzie, a Victorian merchant who rests in a pyramid-shaped tomb in the graveyard of St Andrew's church in Liverpool. Prowse was struggling in the music industry at the time, but the song's success helped him secure a record deal again.

The Song's Significance

The song is a poignant love letter to Liverpool, referencing the city's history, including the Hillsborough disaster. It has been covered by Irish folk star Christy Moore and championed by Elvis Costello. Prowse says the song is always well-received, whether he plays it in Dublin, Glasgow, or Liverpool.

Journalist Paul Du Noyer says the song manages to encompass the worst things in human history to the fun of being out in Mathew Street. He ranks it as one of the great Liverpool songs, alongside 'Strawberry Fields Forever' and 'Penny Lane'.

Prowse will be performing the song at The Arts Club in Liverpool with the full seven-piece Amsterdam band to mark the 20th anniversary of its release. He says the song's success is humbling, and he is grateful for the appreciation it receives from audiences.