A highly skilled and versatile guitarist, known for his work with Colosseum and Humble Pie, blending rock, blues, and jazz styles.
Clem Clempson, a British rock guitarist, is renowned for his formidable axe-wielding skills, which have shaped the sound of iconic bands like Colosseum, Humble Pie, and Strange Brew. Born on September 5, 1949, Clempson has left an indelible mark on the rock music landscape, collaborating with legendary musicians and contributing to some of the most memorable albums in rock history.
Clempson's musical journey began in the late 1960s with the power trio Bakerloo, originally known as The Bakerloo Blues Line. This stint laid the foundation for his subsequent work with Colosseum, a pioneering British rock band. His tenure with Colosseum, from 1969 to 1971, showcased his versatility and adaptability, as the band's eclectic blend of jazz, blues, and rock pushed the boundaries of conventional rock music.
In 1971, Clempson joined Humble Pie, replacing Peter Frampton, and embarked on a journey that would propel him to international recognition. During his time with the band, he shared the stage with luminaries like Steve Marriott and Greg Ridley. The band's fusion of hard rock, blues, and R&B resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing Clempson's status as a sought-after guitarist.
After Humble Pie disbanded in 1975, Clempson collaborated with Cozy Powell and Greg Ridley to form Strange Brew. This brief but pivotal chapter in his career saw him auditioning for Deep Purple, ultimately losing out to Tommy Bolin. Undeterred, he continued to explore new avenues, joining Jack Bruce's Friends in 1980 and briefly forming Rough Diamond with David Byron of Uriah Heep.
Clempson's impressive résumé boasts an array of esteemed collaborations, including work with Jack Bruce, Billy Cobham, Dave Sancious, Roger Waters, Manfred Mann's Earth Band, Bob Dylan, Chris de Burgh, Kiri Te Kanawa, and Karl Jenkins. His credits extend to film scores, including the Oscar-winning Evita and the James Bond film Tomorrow Never Dies. In 1999, he contributed arrangements to the romantic comedy Notting Hill, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and in-demand musician.
In 1994, Clempson rejoined Colosseum for a celebrated reunion, which continued until the band's farewell concert in 2015. This period saw him perform with an array of talented musicians, including Jon Anderson and Greenslade. From 2008 to 2012, he played with the Hamburg Blues Band, followed by the formation of his own band, The Clem Clempson Band, in 2013. This incarnation features Adrian Askew from Hamburg Blues Band and occasional vocals from Chris Farlowe.
In 2017, Clempson became a member of the trio JCM, alongside Jon Hiseman and drummer Jon Hiseman. With a career spanning over five decades, Clempson's influence on rock music is undeniable. His innovative approach to the guitar, combined with his boundless energy and passion, has left an indelible mark on the industry. As a testament to his enduring legacy, Clem Clempson remains an icon and inspiration to generations of rock musicians.
Through his work with legendary bands, collaborations with iconic musicians, and contributions to film scores, Clem Clempson has cemented his status as a rock guitar virtuoso. His rich legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, ensuring his place among the pantheon of rock legends.
79 Years Old
Lead vocalist and guitarist of the iconic rock bands Small Faces and Humble Pie, known for his powerful, soulful voice and energetic live performances.
76 Years Old
A legendary musician who rose to fame in the 1970s with his soulful voice, guitar virtuosity, and iconic live performances, selling millions of records worldwide.
78 Years Old
A founding member of Humble Pie, this British bassist was a key figure in the development of hard rock and blues-rock in the late 1960s and 1970s. He's known for his dynamic stage presence and melodic bass lines.
81 Years Old
A renowned singer-songwriter and guitarist, known for his soulful voice and blues-infused rock sound, having worked with prominent bands like Streetwalkers and Humble Pie.
73 Years Old
A founding member of the rock band Free, known for co-writing the iconic hit "All Right Now" and his soulful, melodic bass lines. His work has influenced many rock musicians.
