Andy Powell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Andy Powell
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Powell performing in May 2015
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Andrew Powell |
| Born | 19 February 1950 London, England |
| Genres | Rock, hard rock, progressive rock, art rock |
| Occupation(s) | Singer–songwriter, musician |
| Instruments | Guitar, mandolin, vocals |
| Years active | 1963–present |
| Labels | MCA, AVM, Neat, IRS, Permanent, Talking Elephant |
| Associated acts | Wishbone Ash |
Andrew Powell (born February 19, 1950) is a talented English guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He is best known as one of the original members of the British rock band Wishbone Ash. This band became famous for their unique sound, especially their use of two lead guitars playing together, which influenced many other musicians.
Contents
Early Life and Music Journey
Andrew Powell was born in the East End of London. He grew up in Hemel Hempstead, a "new town" about 25 miles (40 km) northwest of London. He started playing guitar when he was 11 years old. Bands like The Shadows inspired him to pick up the instrument.
Andrew really wanted a guitar but couldn't afford a new one. So, he decided to build his own! He made a guitar that looked like a famous Gibson Les Paul model. After that, he began playing in different bands in London. Some of these early bands included The Dekois and The Sugar Band.
Forming Wishbone Ash
In 1969, Andrew Powell saw an advertisement in a music magazine called Melody Maker. The ad was placed by Martin Turner and Steve Upton, who were looking for a guitar player for their new band.
When Andrew auditioned, there was another great guitarist named Ted Turner also trying out. Martin and Steve couldn't decide which one to choose because both were so good! So, they came up with a brilliant idea: they formed Wishbone Ash with two lead guitarists. This unique setup became a signature part of the band's sound.
Other Music Projects
Besides his work with Wishbone Ash, Andrew Powell has played on many recordings for other artists. When a musician plays for another artist's song or album, they are called a "session musician." Andrew has worked with famous musicians like George Harrison and Ringo Starr from The Beatles. He also played with Cilla Black and Stewart Copeland.
In 1988, Andrew took part in a special project called Night of the Guitar. He toured with many other talented guitarists. These included Randy California, Jan Akkerman, Steve Howe, and Alvin Lee.
Personal Life
Around 1980, Andrew Powell moved out of England. Since then, he has mostly lived in Redding, Connecticut, in the United States. He lives there with his wife, Pauline. They have three children together.
In 2016, Andrew wrote a book about his life. It is called Eyes Wide Open: True Tales of a Wishbone Ash Warrior. This book shares stories from his long career in music.
See also
In Spanish: Andy Powell para niños
