British culture has always had a soft spot for enigmatic eccentrics. The slightly off centre, unpredictable mavericks that may at times bewilder, yet we enthusiastically take to our hearts.
Though despite the scale of his success, it’s perhaps fair to say that Richard Ashcroft still inhabits that space. From his younger days known, controversially, as ‘mad Richard’, the somewhat lost character inspiring Oasis ’ Cast No Shadow, to ‘that’ 2018 surreal appearance on BBC Breakfast, Ashcroft has been an irrepressible force, not shy at making his presence, and his views, known to anyone prepared to listen.
Aside from all of that tabloid bluster, his contribution to UK music over the course of 30 years, should not be underestimated. Two Ivor Novello awards for songwriting, 2019’s Outstanding Contribution to British Music, the UK’s 18th biggest selling album in the form of The Verve’s 1997’s Urban Hymns, and a five album solo career which stands up in its own right. Here lies a back catalogue which stands up amongst the greats.
