Contribution to music of 10cc Co-Founder recognised
When 10cc brought their Ultimate Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour to Portsmouth Guildhall on Saturday 26th October, The Guildhall Trust was delighted to induct the co-founder of the band known for its impeccable live performances, to the venue’s prestigious Wall of Fame.
Graham Gouldman, born 10th May 1946, received his first guitar aged 11. In his early career, Graham combined a day job with playing in the evenings with bands such as The Mockingbirds, and writing a string of hits for The Yardbirds, Herman’s Hermits, The Hollies and others.
In 1972, he co-founded 10cc, who are widely recognised as one of the most inventive and influential bands in the history of popular music, achieving commercial, critical and creative success in equal measure.
Graham later formed hit duo Wax with Andrew Gold and, in between 10cc touring years, performs with his Heart Full of Songs project. He was inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame in America, in 2014.
Having visited Portsmouth and the Guildhall on a number of occasions since the 1970s with 10cc, it was an honour to recognise Graham’s contribution to music and his connection with the city through the venue’s Wall of Fame where he now sits in the company of Roger Daltrey, The Osmonds, Genesis’ Steve Hackett, Mark King of Level 42, Foreigners’ Mick Jones, Musical Director & keyboard player for Queen, Spike Edney and many more.
Graham Gouldman said, “I’ve performed at Portsmouth Guildhall many times over the years, and it’s always been a great experience, so it is an enormous honour to be inducted into the Wall of Fame. I’m just doing what I love and it’s always humbling when something like this happens, so thank you Portsmouth.”
CEO of The Guildhall Trust, Andy Grays said “We’re honoured to include a true music innovator, songwriter and performer on the Guildhall Wall of Fame. Graham’s contribution to music should not be underestimated and he continues to perform at the highest level.”
Established in 2014 with Express FM’s Soft Rock Show, the Wall of Fame is available to view at all Portsmouth Guildhall concerts and events.