Andy Fairthweather-Low
b. 1948, Cardiff, Wales. This Welsh guitarist and singer took over Dave Edmunds’ sales assistant job at the music shop Barrett's Of Cardiff in the mid-60s, which enabled him to mix with the top musicians on the local scene. He recruited a number of these to form the pop/soul band Amen Corner. It was Low's intention to play guitar in the outfit but as they had too many guitarists and no vocalists, he had to take on the singing duties and became a teen idol in Britain as the band scored a run of hit singles. When the band split, Low and the brass section formed Fairweatherwho signed to RCA's new progressive label Neon. They immediately blew their underground ‘cool’ by having a big hit single with Natural Sinner, but after a couple of less successful singles they too broke up. Low retired to Wales to concentrate on writing and playing for his own amusement. He returned in 1975 with an album and hit single Reggae Tune. Another memorable big hit with Wide Eyed And Legless highlighted his characteristic voice. Low's subsequent releases, including a 1986 single on the Stiff label, failed to chart and he spent more time playing on sessions and live gigs including some with Roger Waters. He also sang with the all-star ARMS band during 1987 to raise money for research in to multiple sclerosis. In 1990, Low toured with Chris Rea and in December 1991 with George Harrison and Eric Clapton (Japanese tour) and is currently playing in Clapton's band (appearing on UNPLUGGED) and is regularly called upon for other prestigious gigs throughout the rock world.