Richard Thompson is one of the most influential figures in folk rock. As a teenager, he co-founded Fairport Convention, the band that defined British folk rock in the 1960s. He later built an extensive and versatile oeuvre.

His craftsmanship earned him an OBE and praise from, among others, the Los Angeles Times, which called him “the best rock songwriter since Dylan and the best electric guitarist since Hendrix.” Rolling Stone included him among the 100 greatest guitarists of all time, and his song “1952 Vincent Black Lightning” was named one of the 100 greatest songs since 1923 by TIME Magazine.

Thompson also worked with artists such as Robert Plant, Elvis Costello, R.E.M., and Bonnie Raitt, and his work includes Grammy-nominated albums and soundtracks such as “Grizzly Man.” His mastery of both acoustic and electric guitar, combined with his energetic and witty stage presence, makes him a unique and enduringly beloved performer.