Paul Carrack, English singer-songwriter and guitarist

Paul Melvyn Carrack, born on April 22, 1951, is a revered English singer, songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist whose career spans decades, marked by a remarkable ability to blend seamlessly into various musical landscapes while maintaining a distinctive vocal identity. His contributions have enriched both his solo endeavors and his pivotal roles within numerous popular bands. Often celebrated for his emotive and instantly recognizable voice, the BBC affectionately bestowed upon him the moniker "The Man with the Golden Voice." This sentiment was echoed by Record Collector magazine, which astutely observed, "If vocal talent equalled financial success, Paul Carrack would be a bigger name than legends such as Phil Collins or Elton John," underscoring the profound respect he commands within the music industry for his sheer vocal prowess.

A Journey Through Seminal Bands

Carrack's journey to prominence began in the mid-1970s as the charismatic frontman and principal songwriter for the band Ace. It was during this era that he penned and sang one of his most enduring hits, "How Long," a track that continues to resonate with audiences globally. His versatile talents quickly made him a sought-after collaborator, leading to significant tenures with other iconic groups. He lent his distinctive voice and musical skills to Roxy Music, contributing to their sophisticated sound, and later joined the new wave pioneers Squeeze, where his lead vocals on tracks like the unforgettable "Tempted" became a defining feature. Furthermore, Carrack was an integral part of Roger Waters' backing band, The Bleeding Heart Band, providing crucial vocal support and occasionally stepping into the lead vocal spotlight on Waters' recordings, showcasing his adaptability across genres.

The Mike + The Mechanics Years and Beyond

Perhaps his most widely recognized period of band affiliation came from the mid-1980s through the late 1990s as a co-lead singer for Mike + The Mechanics, the supergroup formed by Mike Rutherford of Genesis. Alongside the equally talented Paul Young, Carrack's voice was instrumental in crafting some of the band's biggest international successes, including the evocative "Silent Running (On Dangerous Ground)," the poignant narrative of "The Living Years," and the reflective "Over My Shoulder." Following the untimely passing of Paul Young in 2000, Carrack gracefully assumed the role of the band's sole lead vocalist, carrying their legacy forward until his departure in 2004. While his contributions to these legendary bands are significant, Paul Carrack has also cultivated and maintained a vibrant and active solo career, which he continues to pursue with great passion and success to the present day.

A Legacy of Hits and Collaborations

Carrack's influence stretches far beyond the songs he fronted. Beyond his own solo chart success with "Don't Shed a Tear," his songwriting prowess is evident in the remarkable roster of artists who have recorded his compositions, including legendary names such as Linda Ronstadt, the Eagles, Diana Ross, Tom Jones, Michael McDonald, and Jools Holland. This speaks volumes about the timeless quality and broad appeal of his musical creations. Furthermore, his exceptional musicianship has made him a highly respected session and touring musician. He has shared stages and studio time with an incredible array of musical icons, contributing his talents to the works of Elton John, Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, blues legend B.B. King, The Pretenders, The Smiths, and Madness, cementing his status as a true musician's musician.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Carrack

Who is Paul Carrack?

Paul Carrack is an acclaimed English singer, songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist renowned for his soulful voice and contributions to several popular bands, as well as his successful solo career.

What are some of Paul Carrack's most famous songs?

Among his most iconic songs are "How Long" (with Ace), "Tempted" (with Squeeze), and "Silent Running (On Dangerous Ground)," "The Living Years," and "Over My Shoulder" (with Mike + The Mechanics). He also had a notable solo hit with "Don't Shed a Tear."

Which popular bands has Paul Carrack been a member of?

Paul Carrack has been a key member of bands such as Ace, Roxy Music, Squeeze, Roger Waters' The Bleeding Heart Band, and most notably, Mike + The Mechanics.

Why is Paul Carrack often called "The Man with the Golden Voice"?

The BBC bestowed this nickname upon him in recognition of his distinctive, expressive, and consistently high-quality vocal performances, which are widely admired across the music industry and by fans.

Is Paul Carrack still actively involved in music?

Yes, Paul Carrack maintains a very active solo career to the present day, regularly releasing new music and performing live.