Richard John Thompson is a critically acclaimed singer songwriter from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, England.

To date, Richard has released three CDs worldwide through his co-founded record label Chicken Wire Records; 2003 debut album Hidden Daylight (at the age of 17), 2006 album Illogical Life, and the Acoustic Sessions EP (released 2007). Each CD has been very well received by media and music fans alike, with his music even being described as “the soundtrack of a generation” by Metro Radio, and receiving airplay on countless UK and European radio stations.

He is currently recording a new EP with a new backing band. The EP will be released through Chicken Wire Records later in 2009.

Over the past 2 years, Richard has toured with and supported artists such as The Proclaimers, John Mayall, Gabriella Cilmi, Midge Ure, Sandi Thom, Deacon Blue, John Martyn, Alexander O’Neal, Geno Washington, Polly Paulusma, Duke Special, Cara Dillon, David Ford and many more.



Additionally, Richard has recently secured artist endorsements with Fender Guitars, Taylor Guitars, and Roland UK.

Richard is regularly joined on stage by lead guitarist Athol Cassidy, who is fast becoming a fan favourite with his effortless virtuoso style.

At the age of four, Richard began to learn his first musical instrument – the drums. His parents purchased him a junior pro drum kit as a Christmas present, but fairly soon the noise started to resemble rhythms.

Nine years later, at the age of 13, Richard picked up a guitar for the first time. Within weeks he was writing his own melodies and lyrics, and by the time he began his National Diploma in Popular Music in 2001, he was in a position to record his first record, entitled Hidden Daylight. The album contained 12 self-penned acoustic rock songs, and led HMV to declare it “one of the year’s most promising debut sets”.



Three years of touring later, he emerged with album number two – Illogical Life. The album progressed from the simple melodies of his debut, and with Richard primarily performing on the piano, the songs delved into the unpredictable and theatrical. This gained Richard a new set of fans, while still appealing to those who loved the Hidden Daylight record.

2007 saw the release of the Acoustic Sessions EP, an idea thought up after receiving a great reception at acoustic performances supporting Midge Ure and Geno Washington. The release of this EP was the catalyst for a great 2 years for Richard, which has seen him tour with and support The Proclaimers, Gabriella Cilmi, Midge Ure (UK and German tours), Sandi Thom, John Martyn, David Ford and Deacon Blue.

A new full band EP is due later in 2009, and is shaping up to be his best yet!