Andy Powell

Andy Powell
Powell on stage with Wishbone Ash in January 2009
Background information
Birth name	Andrew Powell
Born	19 February 1950 (1950-02-19) (age 59) Stepney, London, England
Genre(s)	Rock, hard rock, progressive rock, art rock
Occupation(s)	Singer–songwriter, musician
Instrument(s)	Guitar, vocals
Years active	1960s—present
Label(s)	MCA, AVM, Neat, IRS, Permanent, Talking Elephant
Associated acts	Wishbone Ash
Website	Wishbone Ash website
Notable instrument(s)
Gibson Flying V

Andy Powell (born Andrew Powell, 19 February 1950, Stepney, London^[1]) is an English guitarist and songwriter, and best known as a founding member of Wishbone Ash.

Early life and career

Although born in the East End of London, Powell grew up in in the new town of Hemel Hempstead, some 25 miles (40 km) north-east of London. He first played guitar at the age of 11, inspired by rock and beat bands such as The Shadows.^[1] Powell, unable to muster funds to buy a brand-new guitar, made a Les Paul-style guitar himself, and began to play in London-based bands such as The Dekois and The Sugar Band.

Wishbone Ash

In 1969, Powell answered a Melody Maker classified in which Martin Turner and Steve Upton advertised for a guitar player. Being unable to choose between Powell and another applicant (Ted Turner), Wishbone Ash was formed with two lead guitarists.

Other appearances

Powell has recorded numerous sessions for other artists, including George Harrison, Ringo Starr, Kashif, Stewart Copeland and Renaissance. In 1988, Powell contributed to Miles Copeland's Night of the Guitar project, touring extensively with artists such as Randy California, Jan Akkerman, Steve Howe, Steve Hunter, Robby Krieger, Leslie West and Alvin Lee.

References