photo taken by Phil Grey
SID GRIFFN is widely regarded as one of the founders of Alt-Country and Americana via his groundbreaking work in the 1980s with the Long Ryders. In fact he wrote their hit single ‘Looking For Lewis & Clark’ as they forged a shotgun marriage out of the melody of folk, the harmony of straight country music, and the power of punk. For this Griffin and company soon found themselves on the cover of the New Musical Express, appearing live on the Old Grey Whistle Test and endlessly touring.
In the 1990s Sid Griffin formed the Coal Porters and subsequently left Los Angeles to relocate in London. Whilst the band evolved into an acoustic act, Griffin was also honing his skills as a solo performer giving troubadour-style concerts all over the UK, Europe and frequently in his native United States.
As these solo gigs grew ever more popular Sid found himself in the enviable position of both successful bandleader and respected solo performer. In 1997 Sid released his debut solo album, the acclaimed Little Victories, which featured a memorable duet with his dear friend Billy Bragg. His second solo album As Certain As Sunrise was later released with contributions from ex-Small Face Ian MacLagan, and the brilliant English guitarist Wes McGhee.
Griffin's career as a serious writer and BBC pundit was adding to his reputation. His third book Million Dollar Bash: Bob Dylan, The Band & the Basement Tapes proved successful enough for him to be in demand for giving lectures on Dylan. Three years later his book on Dylan's mid-seventies period Shelter From The Storm drew more praise for the man Mojo magazine called ‘London's favourite Kentuckian’.
In between his frequent guest appearances on BBC 6 Music's Radcliffe & Maconie show, and touring with the ever popular Coal Porters, Sid Griffin is currently working on his third solo album and preparing to return to some rare live solo troubadour shows throughout the UK and beyond.
