Billy Bragg Biography

Billy Bragg

(Stephen William Bragg)
singer, songwriter
Born: 12/20/1957
Birthplace: Barking, Essex, England

Also known as the “Bard of Barking,” this British musician is known for his politically motivated music and protest songs. His songs supported the Labour Party during the 1987 elections, but Bragg has backed off from outspoken support of Labour's “New Labour” movement. He has released 8 albums in the U.K, including Life's a Riot with Spy Vs. Spy (1983), Workers Playtime (1988), and William Bloke (1996). He collaborated with the American roots rockers Wilco on 1998's Mermaid Avenue, performing a collection of Woody Guthrie's previously unpublished lyrics.