MFF2027: Steve Knightley with Daniel Salvatore

Part of Manchester Folk Festival 2027. Steve Knightley, a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter and founding member of 'Show of Hands,' is a prominent figure in English Folk/Acoustic music. Celebrated for his deep connection to the West Country, his extensive body of work, uniquely blends historical narratives with contemporary themes. In 1994 with multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer he formed 'Show of Hands,' praised by Peter Gabriel as one of the 'Great English Bands.' As a songwriter, Knightley earned the title of Tom Robinson's Songwriter of the 90s and he has won three BBC Folk Awards. His influence extends to the visual arts, serving as the artistic director of the 'Shrouds of the Somme' installation in 2016. He also collaborated with actors Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton on an Album of Great War Poetry and music. Knightley's commitment to addressing social issues is evident in songs like 'Country Life' and 'Arrogance, Ignorance and Greed,' earning recognition at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. His impact extends beyond accolades, with compositions like 'The Galway Farmer' recognised as a 'traditional' Irish folk song, and 'Cousin Jack' now taught in Cornish schools. In 2014 he began the ground-breaking 'Grow your Own Gig' tour empowering local communities to host concerts without financial risk. Plymouth University made Steve an Honorary Doctor of Music and he was also made an Honorary Rifleman by the local 6th Rifles Regiment. Despite pandemic challenges, his creative output remained robust, generating over 100 hours of content. With more than 4,000 performances and over fifty appearances at Glastonbury, Knightley leaves an enduring impact on audiences worldwide. Described by Tony Hall as 'A Showman and Craftsman at the peak of his powers,' praised by Mark Radcliffe for writing 'some of the best songs in the last twenty years,' and acknowledged by former head of Sony publishing Fran Malyan as ‘One of my favourite frontmen,' Knightley's essence is best encapsulated by Robin Denselow of The Guardian as 'The Gravel-voiced Spokesman of the rural poor'.