Steve Knightley is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter and musician, best known as a founding member of the folk/acoustic band “Show of Hands.” He hails from the West Country and is renowned for crafting songs deeply rooted in geographical places, merging historical folk influences with contemporary themes. Notably, his song “Country Life” earned him acclaim as a spokesperson for rural issues.
Knightley actively engages with his audience, involving them in his work by encouraging them to select tracks for albums and organizing “grow your own gig” tours where fans can host his performances in their local communities. He also runs songwriting and performance workshops, occasionally collaborating with artists like Billy Bragg and the late Simon Emmerson from Afro Celt Sound System.
Beyond his music, Knightley serves as a patron for several festivals and arts centres including Shrewsbury Folk Festival and Sidmouth Folk Festival. He has a diverse range of accomplishments, including recording with Mick Jagger, writing songs for films and musicals, and earning accolades like “Tom Robinson’s Songwriter of the 90s” and BBC Folk Awards.
Along with Phil Beer and Miranda Sykes from Show Of Hands, Knightley was presented in 2015 with an Honorary Doctorate from Plymouth University for services to music.
