Andy Baker

Throughout my career, I have participated in numerous global performances with esteemed musical groups and alongside celebrated artists. Notably, I have collaborated with Youth (recognised for his contributions to the works of Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, and Killing Joke), Mel Collins (from King Crimson and Roger Waters), The Blow Monkeys, Hollywood Beyond, All Saints, Paradigm, and Benet McLean (a talented violinist, pianist, and vocalist), as well as Billy Mason, Chester Thompson, Scarlet Division, and Skye (of Morcheeba). Having dedicated over 40 years to mastering the guitar, I have contributed to the vibrant music scenes of both London and Nashville. My performances have reached audiences through live television and radio appearances on platforms such as BBC One, Channel 4, MTV, VH1, TCT (USA), Radio One, Radio 2, and Capital. My passion for music started at a very young age, and since then, I have delved into a wide range of musical genres such as art-rock, avant-pop, baroque pop, progressive rock, hard rock, jazz fusion, post-bop jazz, and modern classical music. This diverse musical exposure has significantly shaped my approach to music, equipping me with a versatile and comprehensive set of skills. I embarked on an academic journey in practice-based research, leading me to pursue a PhD. My studies have profoundly enriched my understanding of multi-genre music and guitar. I have honed my craft through formal education and practical experience, achieving a Master of Music (with distinction) from the London College of Music. This journey allowed me to integrate advanced orchestration and previously unfamiliar techniques with my existing rock, pop, and jazz performance background. In addition to being a guitarist, my passion for music extends to producing and composing for various groups, artists, and soundtracks. I approach music creation with innovative and unconventional thinking, embracing contemporary methods to craft original compositions. As a guitarist, I bring depth, sensitivity, and functionality to collaborative settings, striving to contribute parts, melodies, motifs, and 'riffs' that enhance the overall song and complement the artists I work with. With a strong foundation in rock, pop, jazz fusion, and classical music, my experience as a producer, composer, co-writer, and professional guitarist has facilitated incorporating and adapting an extensive spectrum of musical influences. I derive great satisfaction from imbuing my work with originality, enthusiasm, and vigour, flourishing within the dynamic interchange of musical concepts, whether on stage during live performances or in the studio. My curiosity for music phenomenologies ran deep, and I craved replete scholasticism. My passion for epistemology has facilitated collaborative work, employing lateral and heuristic thinking. Subsequently, I’m receptive to à la mode methodologies generating innovative compositions that integrate with a group or film scores. I aim to incorporate diverse elements to enhance a song and complement the artist. Drawing from my experience as a producer, composer, co-writer, and professional guitarist, I enjoy bringing originality, excitement, and energy to an artists work. Additionally, I excel in collaborative musical interactions, whether performing live or in the studio.