Paul Carrack

One of Britain's most enduringly successful singer/musicians, Paul Carrack's voice is probably recognized by many who don't know his name. He made quite an impact in several Sheffield bands in the early years but his first hit was "How Long" with the band Ace (number 20 in 1974). Ace recorded three albums, none of which managed to chart, and supported progressive rock superstars Yes on a US tour. Carrack's next venture was making two albums with the Frankie Miller Band before joining Roxy Music in 1978. He played on their albums "Manifesto", "Flesh and Blood" and "Avalon". In 1980, Carrack made his first solo album "Nightbird" and then joined Squeeze, singing the lead vocal of their hit "Tempted". In 1983 he played piano and organ on The Smiths' now legendary debut album and in 1985 he joined Genesis guitarist Mike Rutherford for what would turn out to be the most successful venture of his career, Mike + The Mechanics. In 1987 he worked with Roger Waters on the album "Radio KAOS" and its subsequent tour. Mike + The Mechanics' "The Living Years" album (released in 1988) would prove to be the most commercially rewarding time of Carrack's career, with both the album and its title track reaching the number two positions on the UK charts. After that time, Carrack continued with Mike + The Mechanics, his solo career and has worked with stars such as Sting, Elton John, Van Morrison, Eric Clapton, Simply Red and B.B. King.