Paul French (3)

British multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, composer, occasional producer, and solo artist. He began his musical career at 17, when he was recruited by Dick Scott (2) into The Dick Scott Company, in around 1966. On the signing of a management deal, the act changed its name to Windmill, and released several singles as such. When this act came to an end with the death of Dick Scott, the remaining four members formed Tonton Macoute. They recorded their eponymous album, but shortly after French decided to give-up the industry to become a teacher, and the band folded. Realising that he missed the industry, he returned in the mid-1970s as a composer for ATV Music, while simultaneously releasing as a solo artist with CBS. He was subsequently invited into a group called 'Minstrel' by Chris Hook, and when French left to form The Paul French Connection, Hook left with him. They were joined by the drummer Humberto "Bertie" Bradley, and guitarist Paul Hirsh. Transforming into 'Voyager', they got a record deal, and recorded their first album. It was during his time with Voyager that French experienced his greatest level of success, and he finally managed to chart in the UK, reaching no.33 with 'Halfway Hotel', in 1979. He also undertook several tours supporting acts such as: Greg Lake (with [a208220]), [a81013], and the Electric Light Orchestra. With the failure of their third album in 1981, the self-titled 'Voyager', they were dropped by their label. They continued for a short time after this, but disbanded in 1983. Since this time, French has written for and produced several acts, including Latin Electrica, and Endymion Ensemble. He has composed several albums for library music companies, and was involved in the reunion of Voyager in the early to mid-2000s. He also released a solo album, in 2008, entitled 'Pieces Of Fate'. Born: c.1949, in England.