Billy Bragg

Essex born Billy Bragg is a protest punk and folk artist of 30 years standing, who has recorded solo and collaboratively to great acclaim since his first defiant release in 1977.

Known for being one of the most committed left-wing political performers working in popular music, Bragg's long career is strongly flavoured by his on-going struggle for social and political justice and equality in Britain.

During the early 1980s, the singer came to prominence due to his appearances at leftist political rallies, strikes, and benefits around the country. Along with others such as Paul Weller, he led the UK left-wing musicians’ pressure group “Red Wedge” during the Thatcher years in the U.K.

Bragg's musical collaborations have involved such artists as Johnny Marr, R.E.M., Kate Nash, and Kirsty MacColl. In 1998 he teamed up with alt country band Wilco and Natalie Merchant on the album "Mermaid Avenue", a musical interpretation of late legendary folk singer Woody Guthrie’s collection of remaining lyrics, commissioned by the singer’s daughter.

More recently, Bragg released his 12th studio album "Mr Love and Justice" in March last year. He is still to be found as a fixture at political rallies, the most recent being his performance on April 1st at the G20 "Financial Fool’s Day" protest in London.

Web: http://billybragg.co.uk

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