Peter Sinfield, King Crimson’s Original Lyricist and Key Collaborator, Dead at 80 from

Peter Gabriel: The Man Behind The Iconic Vocals

Early Life and Influences

Peter Gabriel was born on February 13, 1950, in Chobham, Surrey, England. He developed a passion for music at a young age, inspired by artists such as The Beatles, Bob Dylan, and Van Morrison.

Gabriel attended Charterhouse School, where he formed his first band, Genesis. The group initially played covers but soon began writing their original material, influenced by progressive rock and psychedelic music.

Genesis and Early Success

In 1967, Genesis signed with Charisma Records and released their debut album, "From Genesis to Revelation." The album was a commercial success, and the band quickly gained a following for their complex and innovative sound.

Gabriel became known for his distinctive vocals, which ranged from soaring falsettos to deep growls. He also developed a theatrical stage presence, often performing with elaborate costumes and makeup.

Solo Career and Global Recognition

In 1975, Gabriel left Genesis to pursue a solo career. His debut solo album, "Peter Gabriel (1977)," was a critical and commercial success, featuring the hit singles "Solsbury Hill" and "Here Comes the Flood."

Gabriel continued to release groundbreaking albums throughout the 1980s, including "Melt" (1980), "Security" (1982), and "So" (1986). "So" became his most successful album, selling over 5 million copies worldwide.

Later Projects and Collaborations

In the 1990s and 2000s, Gabriel continued to explore different musical genres and collaborate with various artists. He released albums such as "Us" (1992), "Up" (2002), and "Scratch My Back" (2010), which featured covers of songs by David Bowie, Radiohead, and Arcade Fire.

Gabriel also became involved in various humanitarian and environmental causes. He co-founded the WITNESS organization, which uses video to document human rights violations, and has been an outspoken advocate for Amnesty International.

Legacy and Influence

Peter Gabriel is widely regarded as one of the most influential and innovative musicians of his generation. His distinctive vocals, theatrical stage presence, and groundbreaking albums have left a lasting mark on the world of rock music.

Gabriel's music has inspired generations of artists and continues to be celebrated by fans around the world. He is a true pioneer who has pushed the boundaries of musical expression.