Music Profile

Peter Gabriel

Prog rocker turned pop royalty By Jim Allen

One of the world’s most respected artists

When Peter Gabriel first popped up as the eccentric, theatrical frontman for British prog rockers Genesis, taking the stage in outfits like a life-sized daisy or a woman's evening gown topped by an oversized fox mask, few could have guessed he'd eventually become not only a huge mainstream pop star, but a major global socio-cultural force. Parting with Genesis at their artistic peak in 1975, he started an idiosyncratic solo career, at first turning out stunning, offbeat art rock albums, each titled simply Peter Gabriel and featuring increasingly disturbing cover photos. While gradually increasing both his pop/R&B sensibilities and a pioneering world music influence, Gabriel became a superstar with 1986's breakthrough So, featuring the massive hits "Sledgehammer" and "In Your Eyes." He used his fame positively, spearheading humanitarian projects like WITNESS, founding the WOMAD (World of Music, Arts and Dance) organization, and starting Real World, a premier world-music label and recording studio. Since his commercial breakthrough, his albums have been increasingly few and far between, but he remains one of the world's most respected artists, as well as a huge concert draw.

TAGS: 1980s, Activism, Art Rock, Human Rights, Label Head, Politics, Pop, Progressive, World Music,

FACTS: Born/Formed: February 13, 1950; Location: Chobham, Surrey, United Kingdom; Official Website, Fansite

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