Legendary British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Paul Carrack is set to embark on an exciting new tour in celebration of his remarkable five-decade-long career in the music industry. Best known as “The Man with the Golden Voice,” Carrack has been at the forefront of British rock and pop music, contributing to some of the most iconic tracks ever produced.
This new tour marks the 50th anniversary of his timeless hit, “How Long,” and coincides with the success of his latest compilation album, How Long – Has This Been Going On? Greatest Hits, which has recently claimed the top spot on the Official Jaxx & Blues Albums Chart.
Five decades of hits and influence
Paul Carrack’s contribution to the music world is unparalleled. Born in 1951, he began his musical journey in the mid-1970s with the British band Ace, where he penned and performed the song that would go on to define his career: “How Long.” The track, released in 1974, was a massive success, reaching No. 3 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and securing a spot in the Top 20 of the UK Singles Chart. It remains a staple of classic rock radio, and its distinctive bassline and soulful lyrics have made it a beloved track for audiences worldwide.
Reflecting on the song’s enduring appeal, Carrack said,
“How Long’ is probably the first song I wrote. It was about a real situation that many people could relate to. I had no idea it would become a classic and touch so many hearts. It’s amazing that it’s still a part of my life 50 years later.”
Carrack’s incredible voice and talent weren’t limited to his work with Ace. After the band disbanded, he joined Roxy Music and later became a highly sought-after session musician, contributing to recordings for some of the biggest names in music, including The Pretenders and The Smiths. His solo work, as well as his contributions to bands like Squeeze and Mike + The Mechanics, cemented his status as one of the UK’s most versatile and enduring musical talents.
A journey through time: The ‘How Long’ 50th anniversary tour
Carrack’s upcoming ‘How Long’ 50th Anniversary Tour promises to take audiences on a musical journey through his illustrious career. Not only will it celebrate the success of “How Long,” but it will also showcase the many hits he’s been a part of over the years. From the soulful melodies of Ace to his collaborations with Squeeze and Mike + The Mechanics, the tour is a tribute to Carrack’s longevity and influence in the industry.
Some of the most memorable tracks that fans can expect to hear include:
- “Tempted” by Squeeze, one of the band’s most famous hits that features Carrack’s distinctive vocals.
- “The Living Years” and “Over My Shoulder” by Mike + The Mechanics, both of which highlight his talent not only as a vocalist but also as a songwriter.
- His solo hit, “Don’t Shed a Tear,” which became a standout track in the late 1980s.
This tour is not just a look back at a legendary career but also a celebration of Carrack’s continued dedication to creating music. His latest album, How Long – Has This Been Going On? Greatest Hits, is a testament to his enduring popularity, having topped the Official Jaxx & Blues Albums Chart.
Paul Carrack: The man behind the music
Throughout his career, Paul Carrack has shown remarkable versatility. As well as being a talented vocalist and songwriter, he’s a highly respected musician who has played with some of the world’s greatest artists. Linda Ronstadt, Diana Ross, and The Eagles have all performed his songs, and Carrack has toured and recorded with icons like Elton John, Eric Clapton, and Ringo Starr.
Carrack’s career as a session musician is equally impressive. In addition to his work with The Pretenders and The Smiths, he’s been in demand as a keyboardist, collaborating with the likes of Van Morrison, Roger Waters, and B.B. King. Most recently, he’s been touring and recording with Eric Clapton, further proving that his talents are still very much in demand.
Over the past two decades, Carrack has focused primarily on his solo career, releasing music through his own label, Carrack-UK. His decision to take control of his musical output has resulted in 12 solo albums over the last 21 years, showcasing a diverse and continually evolving body of work. In addition to these studio albums, he’s also released a series of live recordings that capture the magic of his performances.
Paul Carrack’s tour dates: Where to catch him live
The ‘How Long’ 50th Anniversary Tour will kick off this week and will give fans across the UK the opportunity to experience Carrack’s legendary voice live. The tour will cover a range of venues, from the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London to more intimate settings like Southampton’s Guildhall.
Here’s a full list of the tour dates:
- FRI 6th SEP: Guildhall Southampton
- SAT 7th SEP: Bristol Beacon
- SUN 8th SEP: Cardiff New Theatre
- FRI 13th SEP: Gateshead The Glasshouse
- SAT 14th SEP: York Barbican
- SUN 15th SEP: Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
- SAT 21st SEP: Southend Cliffs Pavilion
- SUN 22nd SEP: Birmingham Symphony Hall
- THU 26th SEP: Woking New Theatre
- FRI 27th SEP: Nottingham Royal Concert Hall
- SAT 28th SEP: Cambridge Corn Exchange
- FRI 4th OCT: Manchester Bridgewater Hall
- SAT 5th OCT: Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
- SUN 6th OCT: Liverpool Philharmonic Hall
- TUE 8th OCT: London Royal Albert Hall
- FRI 11th OCT: Leicester De Montfort Hall
- SAT 12th OCT: Wolverhampton The Civic at The Halls
- SUN 13th OCT: Sheffield City Hall
- FRI 18th OCT: Bournemouth Pavilion
- SAT 19th OCT: Guildford G Live
- SUN 20th OCT: Brighton Dome
Tickets for all shows are available now, and fans are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.
The legacy continues
As Paul Carrack celebrates 50 years of music, it’s clear that his influence on the industry is as strong as ever. From his early days with Ace to his current success as a solo artist, Carrack’s career has been one of dedication, creativity, and, most importantly, a deep connection with his audience.
The ‘How Long’ 50th Anniversary Tour is not only a celebration of a song that has stood the test of time but also a tribute to a man who has made an indelible mark on British music. Whether through his own performances or the many artists who have been inspired by his work, Paul Carrack’s legacy is one that will continue to resonate for generations to come.
