A Native American civil rights activist who occupied Alcatraz Island in 1969 to draw attention to the plight of Native Americans and advocate for their rights. He was a key figure in the Native American rights movement of the 1960s and 1970s.
Richard John Oakes, born on October 1, 1976, is an English musician and songwriter, best known as the guitarist, occasional pianist, and backing vocalist of the renowned English band Suede. With his distinctive playing style and creative inputs, Oakes has been instrumental in shaping the band's sound and success.
Oakes' musical journey began when he stumbled upon a Spanish guitar belonging to his sister. This chance encounter sparked a passion that would soon become an all-consuming career. The album that initially influenced him to pursue music was The Story of the Clash, Volume 1, which he discovered at the age of 12.
Before joining Suede, Oakes played in a band called TED, along with friends Peter Field (vocals) and Colin Forbes (rhythm guitar). Interestingly, the band was originally titled PIPATED (Plug in Peter and the Electric Daffodils). This experience laid the groundwork for Oakes' future endeavors.
Oakes' big break came when he attended Suede's gig at the Poole Arts Centre in May 1993. Upon learning that guitarist Bernard Butler had left the band, Oakes recorded versions of Suede songs and some of his own material on a 4-track recorder. He sent the tape to the band's fan club, along with a note that read "Take me or leave me." When drummer Simon Gilbert heard the tape, he mistakenly believed it to be an early Suede demo. After two auditions, Oakes was invited to join the band at the age of 17, beating approximately 500 candidates.
Oakes officially joined Suede on September 17, 1994, two weeks before his 18th birthday. His first public appearance with the band was on Top of the Pops, while his first full live appearance was at a secret fan club gig at London's Raw Club on October 10, 1994. The first song he performed live, and the first video he appeared in, was "We Are the Pigs." Oakes went on to co-write many songs with Anderson on subsequent albums.
Oakes' musical approach is deeply rooted in his influences, which range from The Clash to David Bowie. His playing style is characterized by intricate guitar work and a keen sense of melody. Oakes' creative input has been instrumental in shaping Suede's distinct sound, which blends elements of glam rock, punk, and Britpop.
Suede's music, with Oakes at the helm, has had a significant impact on the British music scene. The band's albums, such as Come Again and Head Music, have been critically acclaimed and commercially successful. Oakes' guitar work has inspired a generation of musicians, and his contributions to Suede's sound have cemented the band's status as a pioneering force in alternative rock.
Richard Oakes' contributions to Suede have been instrumental in shaping the band's sound and success. As a guitarist and songwriter, Oakes has left an indelible mark on the British music scene. His work continues to inspire and influence musicians, solidifying his place in the pantheon of alternative rock legends.
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