The Beginning
Born in Washington, County Durham in 1945, Bryan Ferry had a natural talent for writing and acting. He showcased these skills in many of his school activities. He was also inclined towards music and the fine arts. Thus, he got himself enrolled at the University of Newcastle to gain a professional degree in Fine Arts.
At the university Bryan Ferry got acquainted with the renowned founder of the British Pop Art, Richard Hamilton who played a major role in shaping Ferry’s music sensibilities. Inspired by Hamilton’s talents and influenced by his knowledge, the singer produced some exceptional music compositions by making use of the creative skills that he had learned from his Fine Arts degree. While at the university he led two music bands, The Gas Board and The City Blues. Later, he was honored with a scholarship by the Royal College of Art, after which he moved to London.
Roxy Music
It was in London that Bryan Ferry began recruiting members to form the group, Roxy Music that would come to be known as one of the pioneering rock bands in the UK. Since its inception in 1971, the band has undergone various changes in the lineup. Led by Bryan, the lineup today consists of Andy Mackay, Phil Manzanera and Paul Thompson.
Roxy Music released their self-titled debut album in 1972. Influenced by the likes of The Beatles, Pink Floyd and The Rolling Stones, the band’s music contained elements of glam, soft and progressive rock as well as served as a model for the new wave acts emerging during the early 80s.
Roxy Music produced number of hit albums during their decade long stint in the music industry. Some of their most popular songs include ‘Virginia Plain,’ ‘Love is the Drug,’ ‘Do the Strand’ and ‘Over You.’ In 1982 Roxy Music went on a hiatus but reunited in 2001, touring extensively to perform at a number of famous festivals and venues.
Solo Contributions
While recording music and performing along Roxy Music, Bryan Ferry was simultaneously able to carve out a successful solo career for himself. His first individual effort, ‘These Foolish Things’ consists of a number of covers of famous songs. The album received a positive response from the fans as well as the critics. It was eventually declared Gold in 1974.
Ferry went on to cover many tracks and earned huge acclaim. Among his most popular cover singles include Wilbert Harrison’s ‘Lets Stick Together’ and Bob Dylan’s ‘A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall.’ Ferry has this incredible ability to give a personal touch to each number that he covers.
He has a total of fourteen solo studio records to his credit, the latest being ‘The Jazz Age’ (2012). Adding a dramatic element to each performance, the singer lives up to the expectations of his fans who anticipate his shows to be innovative and novel. Another exciting series of such events is just around the corner, preparations for which are in full swing.