Peter Ham facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Peter William Ham
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| Birth name | Peter William Ham |
| Born | 27 April 1947 Swansea, Wales |
| Died | 24 April 1975 (aged 27) Surrey, England |
| Genres | Rock music |
| Occupation(s) | Singer-songwriter |
| Instruments | Guitar, Piano |
| Years active | 1964–1975 |
| Labels | Apple, Warner Bros. Records, Rykodisc |
| Associated acts | Badfinger, The Iveys |
Peter William Ham (born April 27, 1947 – died April 24, 1975) was a talented singer, songwriter, and guitarist from Wales. He is most famous for being a main songwriter and singer for the popular 1970s band, Badfinger.
Contents
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Peter Ham was born in Swansea, South Wales. He loved music from a young age. In 1961, when he was just 14, he started a local rock group called The Panthers. This band later changed its name to The Iveys in 1965.
In 1966, The Iveys moved to London. Their manager, Bill Collins, helped them settle there. For the next three years, they played music all over the United Kingdom. Peter Ham was especially good at writing songs. Even Ray Davies from the famous band The Kinks was interested in helping his group.
Joining Apple Records
In 1968, The Iveys caught the attention of Mal Evans. He was a personal assistant to The Beatles. The Beatles themselves were very impressed by Peter's many home-recorded songs. Because of this, The Iveys were signed to Apple Records, The Beatles' own record label.
Rise to Fame with Badfinger
After joining Apple Records, The Iveys changed their name to Badfinger. Their first big hit was "Come And Get It." This song was written by Paul McCartney of The Beatles. It quickly became a Top Ten hit around the world.
Peter Ham's hard work as a songwriter really paid off. In late 1970, his song "No Matter What" became another worldwide Top Ten hit. He continued to write more successful songs. In 1972, "Day After Day" and "Baby Blue" also became huge hits.
The Song "Without You"
The biggest success for Peter Ham came with a song he co-wrote called "Without You." This song became a worldwide number one hit in 1972. It was famously covered by Harry Nilsson. Since then, "Without You" has become a classic ballad. Many other singers, like Mariah Carey and Clay Aiken, have also covered it.
Peter Ham also played music for other famous artists. He played on George Harrison's album "All Things Must Pass." He also played on Ringo Starr's single "It Don't Come Easy."
Images for kids
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Blue plaque commemorating Pete Ham in his hometown of Swansea, Wales
