Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United Kingdom

Birth

:

October 2, 1950 in Guildford, Surrey, England

Genre

:

Vocal

 

Mike Rutherford is a renowned English musician, songwriter, and composer, best known as the bassist and guitarist of the progressive rock band Genesis. Born on October 2, 1950, in Guildford, Surrey, England, Rutherford grew up in a musical family. His father, William Francis Henry Rutherford, was a Royal Navy officer and a jazz pianist, while his mother, Ann Patricia (née Clews), was a singer and actress. Rutherford's interest in music began at an early age, and he started playing the guitar when he was 8 years old. He attended Charterhouse School, where he met future Genesis bandmates Tony Banks and Peter Gabriel. In 1967, Rutherford formed the band Genesis with Banks, Gabriel, Anthony Phillips, and Chris Stewart. The band's early music was heavily influenced by the progressive rock movement of the time, and they quickly gained a following in the UK. Rutherford's role in Genesis was primarily as a bassist and guitarist, but he also contributed as a songwriter and composer. His early compositions for the band included "The Knife" and "Fountain of Salmacis," which showcased his melodic sensibility and intricate guitar work. As Genesis evolved, Rutherford's compositions became more complex and experimental, incorporating elements of jazz, classical music, and world music. One of Rutherford's most notable contributions to Genesis was his use of the 12-string guitar, which became a signature sound for the band. He also played bass pedals, which allowed him to play bass lines with his feet while playing guitar. This unique approach to instrumentation helped to define Genesis' sound and set them apart from other progressive rock bands of the time. In addition to his work with Genesis, Rutherford also pursued a solo career as a songwriter and composer. His first solo album, "Smallcreep's Day," was released in 1980 and was based on the novel of the same name by Peter Currell Brown. The album featured a more stripped-down sound than Genesis, with Rutherford playing most of the instruments himself. Rutherford's solo work continued throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with albums such as "Acting Very Strange" and "Word of Mouth." He also collaborated with other musicians, including Paul Carrack and Roger Daltrey. In 1985, Rutherford formed the supergroup Mike + The Mechanics, which included Carrack and other musicians. The band had several hits in the 1980s and 1990s, including "The Living Years" and "All I Need is a Miracle." Throughout his career, Rutherford's compositions have been characterized by their melodic complexity and use of unconventional instrumentation. He has cited classical composers such as Bach and Debussy as influences, and his music often incorporates elements of classical music. His work with Genesis and Mike + The Mechanics has been praised for its innovative use of rock instrumentation and its ability to blend different genres and styles. In addition to his musical career, Rutherford has also been involved in various philanthropic and environmental causes. He is a supporter of the Rainforest Foundation and has worked to raise awareness about deforestation and climate change. He was also involved in the Live Aid and Live 8 concerts, which raised money for famine relief in Africa. In conclusion, Mike Rutherford is a highly influential and innovative composer and musician who has made significant contributions to the world of rock music.

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