John Birkby

John Birkby was born in Leeds on the 22nd of February 1947. His parents were keen classical musicians and they passed their talent to their sons John and Phil. Although John's parents were less than impressed by his reluctance to play a proper musical instrument, his selecting instead to learn the guitar, they would surely agree that his talent has stood him in good stead as he has played semi-professionally since the age of 18.

John began his musical career playing with his brother Phil. John and Phil played together for many years, supporting the local folk scene as well as founding and running a successful folk club at the Old Oak Tree in Bramley. John was influenced by bands such as the Seekers and the Springfields as well as solo artists such as Joan Baez and Ewan McColl, although he soon developed his own distinctive sound.

Later John was a founder member of the successful local band Millstone Grit with David Hill and Jim Straker before forming Aiken's Drum in 1977. In addition to his work with the band, John has appeared regularly as a solo artist and has developed a strong following in both the traditional folk clubs and informal pub settings. His strong baritone voice is often to be heard by anyone within a mile of any venue at which he sings, which might be anywhere from an informal singaround to a festival stage. John has appeared at a variety of folk festivals, particularly Otley, where he has been a regular performer over the years.

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