Rick Davies

Supertramp - Rick Davies (1979)

Rick Davies (born Richard Davies on 22 July 1944) is an English musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the founder, keyboardist, and lead vocalist of the rock band Supertramp. He is recognized for his distinctive voice and his role in writing many of the band's hit songs.

Early Life

Rick Davies was born in Swindon, Wiltshire, England. He developed an interest in music at a young age and began playing the piano. His early influences included jazz and blues musicians, which shaped his unique style.

Career

Early Career

Before forming Supertramp, Davies played in various local bands. He eventually joined the band The Joint, which led to his meeting with Roger Hodgson.

Formation of Supertramp

In 1969, Rick Davies co-founded Supertramp with Roger Hodgson. The band initially struggled to find success, but their breakthrough came with the release of their third album, Crime of the Century, in 1974. The album featured hits like "Dreamer" and "Bloody Well Right", which showcased Davies' keyboard skills and songwriting abilities.

Success with Supertramp

Supertramp achieved international fame with their 1979 album Breakfast in America, which included hits such as "The Logical Song", "Goodbye Stranger", and "Take the Long Way Home". Davies' contributions were pivotal to the band's success, and his collaboration with Hodgson created a distinctive sound that blended rock, pop, and progressive elements.

Later Years

After Hodgson left Supertramp in 1983, Davies continued to lead the band. He released several more albums with Supertramp, including Brother Where You Bound (1985) and Free as a Bird (1987). Despite changes in the lineup, Davies remained the driving force behind the band.

Personal Life

Rick Davies is known for his reclusive nature and has kept much of his personal life private. He has been married to his wife, Sue, for many years, and they have a daughter named Natalie Davies.

Legacy

Rick Davies' contributions to music, particularly through his work with Supertramp, have left a lasting impact on the rock genre. His distinctive voice, keyboard playing, and songwriting have earned him a place among the notable musicians of his era.

Discography

With Supertramp

• Supertramp (1970)
• Indelibly Stamped (1971)
• Crime of the Century (1974)
• Crisis? What Crisis? (1975)
• Even in the Quietest Moments... (1977)
• Breakfast in America (1979)
• ...Famous Last Words... (1982)
• Brother Where You Bound (1985)
• Free as a Bird (1987)
• Some Things Never Change (1997)
• Slow Motion (2002)

See Also

• Supertramp
• Roger Hodgson
• Progressive rock
• List of keyboardists