Currently playing with the Stevie Rich, an original Folk-Rock band with 60’s and 70’s influences (Beatles, Kinks, Marriott) and Americana. I have been playing the alternative music scene, nationally and internationally, with bands like the Tofu Love Frogs, Headmix Collective, The Unmentionables, Dixie Jack, Ben Walker.
On leaving school, I began a degree in Architecture at South Bank University. I left after the first year, bought a 1976 Honda 400/4 motorbike and acoustic guitar, then started busking in the London Underground and the South of France.
After joining a Blues band called ‘The Unmentionables’ with friends in London, I took up the Classical Guitar and studied under the international composer and performer Kemal Belevy at Southgate FE College.
I then studied Music and the History of Ideas at Middlesex University and was introduced to French Philosophy, European Literature, and History of Ideas. During this time, I played Folk, Bluegrass and Gypsy Jazz guitar with Ben Walker, introduced to me by the great multi-instrumentalist Stuart Hall. Alongside this I played solo classical guitar at various events and functions.
After playing at Friar's acoustic folk festival (1990) in Sidmouth (Devon) with Ben Walker, I was invited to join Paddy’s new band called ‘The Tofu Love Frogs’ which went on to tour the New Age Traveller/Free Festival circuit e.g. Castle Morton, Torpedo Town, as well as Glastonbury Festival's fringe/alternative scene. Tours of the UK, Ireland and Europe also took place. This was during the time of the sound systems organized by the likes of Spiral Tribe, DIY and Fundamental. I played lead guitar and harmonica on the Tofu's classic album 'Rentamob' (1995). In 1996 I toured Europe and recorded briefly with Headmix Collective.
In 2011, after taking a long break to raise my family, I was invited to play bass for a band set to tour in Richmond (Virginia, USA). This amazing experience rekindled my passion and connection to the live music scene, where I went on to play mandolin, violin and guitar with Dixie Jack, on the Nottingham pub folk-rock circuit.
In 2015 I focused more on writing original songs. This led to a connection with the Community Music Scene in Lexington, Kentucky and two music tours came about. Performing on the Lexington live music scene and the Moonshiners Ball music festival was made possible, thanks to Shawn Gannon and friends.
It has always been a privilege to be invited to support and participate in community events, so please get in touch if you are having one!
artswellbeinguk@gmail.com
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