Richard Thompson is one of the greatest living folk-rock guitarists. His technical prowess, stylistic versatility, and creativity have garnered him numerous awards and accolades, including an OBE (Order of the British Empire) given to him by Queen Elizabeth II. He’s also received numerous Grammy nominations, and a spot on many lists of top guitarists including Rolling Stone Magazine's. But as if that weren't enough, he's also a masterful songwriter, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in Songwriting from both the Americana Music Association in Nashville and Britain’s BBC Awards, just to name a few. The Los Angeles Times calls him "the finest rock songwriter after Dylan, and the best electric guitarist since Hendrix." But even with all of that renown, whenever I tell someone that Thompson is one of my favorite music artists, I mostly get a blank stare and a "who's Richard Thompson?" in response. So, assuming that you're one of the many people who would give me that blank stare, allow me to introduce you. Richard Thompson was born in London in 1949, and by the time he was 18. was an established musician, helping to find the band Fairport Convention, which pretty much invented the folk-rock genre. He left the band at age 21, and after striking out on his own, had a decade-long partnership with his then-wife, singer Linda Thompson. When they went their separate ways in 1983, Thompson began a solo career that has spanned over 30 years, with a body of work that includes over 40 albums. Well, with all that said, of course you want to hear some music, right? Well, here are 10 videos that capture Thompson's brilliance. Prepare to be dazzled.
"Persuasion" with Teddy Thompson
Richard's son Teddy is an accomplished singer-songwriter himself (he's worked with the likes of Rufus Wainwright) and their harmonies are impeccable on this song, which is my all-time favorite of Thompson's.
"Good Things Happen To Bad People"
One of his newer hits, and one of my new favorites of his.
"Hope You Like The New Me"
This is Thompson's songwriting at its finest. His intensity, dark humor and wit are on full display, along with complex and creative guitar styling. Unfortunately I couldn't find a live performance of this, but hearing it is enough.
"A Heart Needs A Home"
Some more beautiful harmonies on a beautiful song, this time with his ex-wife, Linda.
"Meet on the Ledge"
One of Fairport Convention's hits, and also Thompson's first real success as a songwriter.
"Oops, I Did It Again"
Yes, it's the Britney Spears song. Yes, he does find a way to play it un-ironically while also making reference to medieval music. Yes, it's the best.
"Woodstock"
This was for a tribute concert for Joni Mitchell, and Stone Temple Pilots were originally supposed to play this song (Richard was supposed to play "Black Crow," which he did later in the program. On a half hour's notice, Richard was asked to play this song. It's a powerful performance any way you look at it, but especially if you know that he is pretty much making it up on the spot.
"Guitar Heroes"
This shows off his almost superhuman versatility, showcasing his ability to play in the style of many guitar greats of the past.
"If Love Whispers Your Name"
"Holy guitar solo, Batman!" is all I have to say for this one. Another no-video one, but the audio speaks for itself.
"1952 Vincent Black Lightening"
This is the song Thompson is best known for. It's beautifully crafted example of a narrative song, and the guitar solo ain't too shabby either. (Of course by "ain't too shabby" I mean STAHP WITH THE TALENT ALREADY).
