Kevin Godley

Kevin Godley

Kevin Godley was born on October 7th, 1945

Full Name: Kevin Michael Godley
Place of Birth: Prestwich, England
Nationality: English
Profession: Musician, Director
Band: 10cc
Hits: Consequences, Cry
Solo Career: Started in 1979
Music Videos: Directed over 500

A singer-songwriter and director who co-founded the 1970s band 10cc, known for quirky, humorous, and innovative music videos and hit songs like "I'm Not in Love" and "Dreadlock Holiday".

Written by: Emma Thompson Emma Thompson

Kevin Godley: The Maestro of Art Rock and Music Videos

Kevin Godley, the enigmatic British singer-songwriter, drummer, and music video director, is best known for his innovative work with the art rock band 10cc and as half of the collaboration duo Godley & Creme. With a career spanning over five decades, Godley has left an indelible mark on the music industry with his unique blend of wit, satire, and experimentalism.

Early Life and Formation of 10cc

Born on October 7, 1945, in Prestwich, Lancashire, England, Godley grew up in a Jewish family and attended North Cestrian Grammar School in Altrincham. During his time at art college in Manchester, Godley met his future creative partner, Lol Creme. Together, they formed the RB combo the Sabres, which eventually led to the formation of 10cc.

Rise to Fame with 10cc

As a member of 10cc, Godley was an integral part of the band's success, contributing as a songwriter, lead vocalist, drummer, percussionist, and keyboardist. The band's eclectic sound, which blended pop, rock, and avant-garde elements, earned them critical acclaim and commercial success. Godley's signature drumming style and distinctive vocal delivery added a unique dimension to the band's music.

Godley & Creme: The Innovative Duo

In 1977, Godley and Creme left 10cc to focus on their solo project, Godley & Creme. This collaboration resulted in the release of four critically acclaimed albums, showcasing their experimental approach to music and video production. The duo's innovative use of music videos as an art form helped shape the medium and paved the way for future generations of directors.

Career Highlights and Major Works

Later Work and Legacy

In the 1990s, Godley briefly reunited with his 10cc bandmates for the album Meanwhile. He later formed the band GG06 with Graham Gouldman, releasing a self-titled EP and performing live with Gouldman's iteration of 10cc.

Godley's most recent venture is WholeWorldBand, a music platform for the iPad that combines audio and video to create a global recording studio in the cloud. This innovative project has earned him a nomination for the SXSW Music Accelerator Award in 2013.

Influence on Modern Society and Pop Culture

Kevin Godley's influence on modern music and pop culture is undeniable. His innovative approach to music videos has inspired generations of directors and artists. His work with 10cc and Godley & Creme has left a lasting impression on the music industry, shaping the course of art rock and beyond.

As a true visionary, Godley continues to push the boundaries of creativity, leaving behind a rich legacy that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.

Timeline
1945
Born in England
Kevin Godley was born on October 7, 1945, in Prestwich, Lancashire, England, to a family of modest means.
1966
Formed 10cc
Godley co-founded the rock band 10cc with Graham Gouldman, Eric Stewart, and Lol Creme, achieving significant commercial success in the 1970s.
1976
Co-Wrote Im Mandy Fly Me
Godley co-wrote the song Im Mandy Fly Me with Graham Gouldman, which became a hit single for 10cc.
1977
Left 10cc
Godley left 10cc to pursue a solo career, releasing the critically acclaimed album Museum of Man in 1979.
1983
Formed Godley & Creme
Godley formed the duo Godley & Creme with Lol Creme, achieving further success with hits like Under Your Thumb and Cry.
Kevin Godley

Kevin Godley Quiz

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FAQ
What is Kevin Godleys musical career?
Kevin Godley is a British singer-songwriter, musician, and director, best known as a member of the art rock band 10cc and for his hit singles Under Your Thumb and Cry.
What is Kevin Godleys role in 10cc?
Kevin Godley was a founding member of 10cc, contributing vocals, guitar, and drums to the bands eclectic blend of art rock, pop, and progressive music.
What are Kevin Godleys directorial credits?
Kevin Godley has directed music videos for numerous artists, including Peter Gabriel, U2, and Brian Eno, and has also directed several commercials and short films.
What are Kevin Godleys influences?
Kevin Godleys influences include 1960s pop and rock, as well as classical and avant-garde music, which he has incorporated into his work with 10cc and as a solo artist.
What is Kevin Godleys legacy?
Kevin Godleys legacy is as a pioneering figure in British art rock, whose innovative approach to music and visual art has inspired generations of musicians and artists.

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