Steve Hackett

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One of music’s most uncompromising and complex individuals, Steve Hackett has earned the reputation of being one of Britain’s finest composers and guitarists. Originally a key member of the ‘classic’ Genesis his complex and distinctive playing contributed heavily to their early success, developing an elegance and sophistication which have since become his trademark. He has since achieved consistent solo success internationally in both the rock and classical arenas.

Born in London in 1950, Steve was already playing harmonica as a four-year-old and by 12 was experimenting with his father’s guitar. During his teens he played with various bands in his spare time and had already started to place advertisements in Melody Maker in search of like-minded musicians. One of those ads was answered by Peter Gabriel and Steve gave up his day job to join him in Genesis for £15 a week.

Within a couple of years sell-out tours ensued across Europe and America and they were on their way to becoming one of the best loved bands of that decade and beyond. For most Genesis fans the Hackett years and the albums they recorded together represent the definitive Genesis. Some would even go further, saying that when Steve left, the true spirit of the band went with him, reappearing only on his solo albums, now totalling twenty one and covering a vast range from screaming blues to the most refined classical.