Richard Thompson is a venerable figure in British folk-rock and one of the most respected guitarists and songwriters of his generation. Born on April 3, 1949, in London, England, Thompson first gained prominence in the late 1960s as a founding member of Fairport Convention. With this group, he helped to shape the folk-rock movement by blending traditional British folk music with elements of rock and roll. After parting ways with Fairport Convention, Thompson embarked on a solo career that has been marked by both critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.

Thompson's body of work showcases his virtuosity on the guitar and his skill as a lyricist, often weaving narratives that touch on themes of love, loss, and the human condition, imbued with a distinctly British sensibility. His discography includes a mix of live recordings, such as "Live From Honolulu" and "Live From London," and studio albums that continue to capture his evolution as an artist. His contributions to film scores, like "Music From Grizzly Man" and "The Cold Blue," highlight his versatility and ability to convey emotion through music. Collaborations with his then-wife Linda Thompson, most notably the album "I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight," are also among his most celebrated works. Over the decades, Richard Thompson has earned numerous accolades, including an Ivor Novello Award for songwriting, a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award, and a spot on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.

Genres

British Folk

Folk

Folk Rock

Singer-songwriter

Rock

Roots Rock

Traditional Folk

Celtic

Related Artists

John Martyn

Nick Drake

Fairport Convention

Bert Jansch

Ralph McTell

Jethro Tull

The Waterboys

Billy Bragg

Al Stewart

Sandy Denny

Simon & Garfunkel

James Taylor

Latest Release

Life's Sweet Shadows: Vocal Works of Richard Thompson

Richard Thompson•

Joe Williams

Album - 11 Tracks - Released November 15, 2024