Births on January 20

Eric Stewart, English singer-songwriter, guitarist, and producer

Eric Michael Stewart, born on 20 January 1945, is a highly esteemed English singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and record producer whose profound influence has resonated across several decades of popular music. Renowned for his distinctive vocal style and versatile musicianship, Stewart played a pivotal role as a founding member of two influential rock groups: The Mindbenders and 10cc. His remarkable career also encompasses significant contributions as a studio owner and a prolific collaborator with music legends.

The Mindbenders: Early Success and Foundation

Stewart's musical journey began in 1963 as a co-founder of The Mindbenders, a Manchester-based rock group that quickly gained prominence in the burgeoning British Invasion era. During his tenure with the band, which lasted until 1968, Stewart contributed significantly to their sound as a guitarist and vocalist. The Mindbenders achieved international success with their 1966 hit single, "A Groovy Kind of Love," a melodic and enduring track that showcased their pop sensibilities and Stewart's emerging talent.

Strawberry Studios: A Hub of Innovation

Following his departure from The Mindbenders, Eric Stewart embarked on a new venture that would significantly impact the British music scene. From 1968 through the early 1980s, Stewart co-owned and operated Strawberry Studios in Stockport, England, alongside Peter Tattersall and later Graham Gouldman. This state-of-the-art recording facility became a creative crucible for numerous artists. It was here that Stewart and his future 10cc bandmates honed their production and songwriting skills. Beyond recording seminal albums with 10cc, Strawberry Studios attracted a diverse array of talent, including American singer-songwriter Neil Sedaka, who recorded his comeback albums Solitaire (1972) and The Tra-La Days Are Over (1973) there, rejuvenating his career. Notably, portions of Paul McCartney's highly anticipated post-Wings solo albums, Tug of War and Pipes of Peace, were also recorded within the walls of Strawberry Studios under Stewart's close involvement.

10cc: A Legacy of Artistry and Innovation

In 1972, Eric Stewart co-founded 10cc, a band celebrated for its sophisticated pop-rock sound, intricate arrangements, and often witty, multi-layered lyrics. As a core member, Stewart was instrumental in shaping 10cc's unique identity, contributing significantly as a lead vocalist, guitarist, and primary songwriter, often collaborating with Graham Gouldman. The band's extensive discography from 1972 to 1995 features a string of highly successful and critically acclaimed albums and singles. Iconic hits such as "I'm Not in Love," a groundbreaking track known for its innovative vocal layering and lush production, "Rubber Bullets," and "Dreadlock Holiday" showcase the band's versatility and enduring appeal, with Stewart's distinctive voice often at the forefront.

Extensive Collaboration with Paul McCartney

The 1980s marked a significant period of collaboration between Eric Stewart and music icon Paul McCartney. Stewart's exceptional musicianship and production acumen made him a trusted collaborator for McCartney during this crucial phase of his solo career. Their extensive work together saw Stewart contributing as a session musician, providing guitar work and backing vocals, and co-writing songs across several of McCartney's solo albums. This productive partnership spanned highly acclaimed works including Tug of War (1982), where Stewart played on tracks like "Take It Away," and Pipes of Peace (1983), for which he notably co-wrote "The Man" with McCartney and Michael Jackson, and "Through Our Love" with McCartney. Stewart's contributions continued on Give My Regards to Broad Street (1984) and Press to Play (1986), where he co-wrote songs such as "Stranglehold" and "Pretty Little Head," further solidifying his creative bond with the former Beatle.

A Flourishing Solo Career

Since 1980, Eric Stewart has also cultivated a respected solo career, releasing four studio albums that showcase his individual artistic vision. His solo works include Girls (1980), Frocks, Boxes & Roll (1995), Do Not Bend (2003), and Vive La Difference (2009). These albums offer listeners a deeper dive into Stewart's songwriting and production prowess, confirming his status as a multifaceted artist whose contributions continue to enrich the musical landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eric Stewart

When was Eric Stewart born?

Eric Michael Stewart was born on 20 January 1945.

What bands was Eric Stewart a founding member of?

Eric Stewart was a founding member of both The Mindbenders (1963-1968) and 10cc (1972-1995).

What was Strawberry Studios?

Strawberry Studios was a renowned recording studio in Stockport, England, co-owned by Eric Stewart from 1968 to the early 1980s. It was a key recording location for 10cc, Neil Sedaka, and Paul McCartney, among others.

Which Paul McCartney albums did Eric Stewart work on?

Eric Stewart collaborated extensively with Paul McCartney in the 1980s, contributing to his solo albums Tug of War (1982), Pipes of Peace (1983), Give My Regards to Broad Street (1984), and Press to Play (1986).

How many solo albums has Eric Stewart released?

As of the last reported release, Eric Stewart has released four solo studio albums since 1980.