Richard Thompson, a foundational figure in British folk music, is inviting fans to submit questions ahead of his latest studio project. The 77-year-old musician has built an expansive career that began in his teenage years when he co-founded Fairport Convention. By prioritizing original compositions over traditional standards, his work helped define the genre, most notably with the 1969 landmark album, Liege and Lief. Now 77, Thompson’s career began in his teens when he formed Fairport Convention and struck out into writing new material rather than covers and folk standards: in so doing, albums such as 1969’s Liege and Lief became par.
Following a “gut decision” to pursue a solo path, Thompson later performed in a duo with his then-wife Linda, whom he married in 1972. Together, they produced critically acclaimed records such as I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight and Pour Down Like Silver. His personal journey later included a conversion to Sufism and a period away from the industry. After returning in the late 1970s and separating from Linda, he relocated to the United States with his current partner.
Known for his sophisticated guitar work and genre-defying collaborations—ranging from Werner Herzog to David Byrne and Harry Shearer—Thompson has maintained a versatile creative output. He famously produced the ambitious stage show 1000 Years of Popular Music, which spanned centuries of musical history from ancient hymns to modern pop. His 20th solo studio album, Hippies, Thugs and Heroes, features storytelling-focused songs captured with an instinctive, minimalist approach that often required only a few takes to complete. And even attempted to synthesise an entire millennium of music in his show 1000 Years of Popular Music (encompassing Sumer is Icumen In, he’s collaborated with everyone from Werner Herzog to David Byrne and Harry Shearer.
The new album is scheduled for release on 16 October. Fans may submit questions regarding his career or the upcoming record in the comments section until 10am BST on Monday, 12 October. A selection of his responses will be featured in the following Friday’s edition of the Film & Music section and published on our website.
