Mike Ratledge

Mike Ratledge is a keyboardist best known for his work with the influential British band Soft Machine, a key group in the Canterbury scene of progressive rock. Born on May 6, 1943, in Maidstone, Kent, England, Ratledge joined Soft Machine in 1966 and was a pivotal member during the band's early years, contributing to albums like "The Soft Machine" and "Volume Two." His innovative use of the electric organ and synthesizers helped define the band's sound, blending jazz, rock, and experimental music. After leaving Soft Machine in the mid-1970s, Ratledge continued to work in music, contributing to soundtracks and collaborating on projects like "Riddles of the Sphinx" and "Music for T.V. and Film - Movement."