Andy M. Stewart
b. Andrew McGregor Stewart, 8 September 1952, Alyth, Perthshire, Scotland to a father who had a large collection of traditional songs, and a mother who wrote poetry and songs and music. He started playing in the early '70s, having previously sung at sessions and get-togethers. In 1973, Stewart joined the already established duo of Dougie MacLean (b. 27 September 1954, Dunblane, Scotland; guitar/fiddle/vocals), and Ewan Sutherland (guitar/vocals). These three, together with Martin Hadden (b. 23 May 1957, Aberdeen, Scotland; bass/vocals), formed Puddock's Well. In 1974 Andy joined Silly Wizard on tenor banjo and vocals, with whom he toured and recorded. It was with Silly Wizard in 1980 that he recorded a single, Take The High Road, the original theme for the television series of the same name. TAKE THE HIGH BY THE HUSH featured half traditional ballads and half original Stewart compositions. The album was well received, being voted Melody Maker's Folk Album Of The Year. In 1984 Stewart teamed up with Manus Lunny (b. 8 February 1962, Dublin, Eire; bouzouki/guitar/vocals), regularly working as a duo, but adding Phil Cunningham (b. 27 January 1960, Edinburgh, Scotland; piano/accordion/whistles/vocals), to record FIRE IN THE GLEN. This album for Topic Records featured virtually all original material. As well as being featured on a number of compilation albums which include other artists, and having recorded with others, Andy still works with Lunny, and Gerry O'Byrne (guitar/vocals) from the group Patrick Street.