Steve Knightley is a multi-award-winning English singer-songwriter and founding member of the iconic folk band Show of Hands. Widely regarded as one of the leading figures in the folk/acoustic music scene, Knightley’s career spans over three decades and more than 30 albums. His songwriting is deeply influenced by the traditions of English folk music, blending historical narratives with contemporary themes, and often focusing on social issues.
Raised in the West Country , Knightley’s musical journey began at age 14, and he was performing by 16. After stints in Sweden and London’s rock scene, Knightley co-founded Show of Hands in 1994 with multi-instrumentalist Phil Beer. The duo went on to achieve widespread acclaim, with Peter Gabriel describing them as “one of the great English bands.” Their songs, such as The Galway Farmer and Cousin Jack, became folk anthems, with the latter now part of Cornish school curriculums.
Knightley’s work is known for its social and political relevance, as seen in Country Life, which addressed rural issues, earning him the title “the gravel-voiced spokesman of the rural poor.” His anti-banking anthem Arrogance, Ignorance, and Greed won Best Song at the 2010 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. His music bridges the gap between traditional folk and modern social commentary, creating timeless works that resonate with audiences of all ages.
An advocate for grassroots music, Knightley launched the innovative “Grow Your Own Gig” tour in 2014, allowing local communities to host his concerts without financial risk. This model, built on his experience with Show of Hands, helped bring live folk music to small towns and villages across the UK, reinforcing his belief in music’s power to unite and empower.
Knightley’s impact goes beyond music. In 2016, he served as artistic director for the Shrouds of the Somme, a moving installation commemorating soldiers lost in the Battle of the Somme. He has also collaborated on projects like an album of Great War poetry with renowned actors Jim Carter and Imelda Staunton. For his contributions to music and culture, Knightley was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Music from Plymouth University in 2015, and in 2019, he was named an Honorary Rifleman by the 6th Battalion The Rifles, in recognition of his family’s military heritage.
Knightley has performed in over 4,000 venues, ranging from village halls and folk clubs to cathedrals and the Royal Albert Hall, where he has appeared six times. He has also published five songbooks and runs workshops on songwriting, stagecraft, and performance, furthering his dedication to nurturing the next generation of musicians.
In 2024, Knightley embarks on his first solo tour since the retirement of Show of Hands, featuring new material from his upcoming album The Winter Yards. The tour will also showcase beloved classics like The Galway Farmer and Cousin Jack. With his trademark wit, sharp observations, and commitment to social commentary, Knightley continues to leave a lasting mark on the English folk scene.
Widely praised for his storytelling ability, Knightley’s songs reflect both the personal and the universal, drawing on his deep connection to the West Country and his love of history. His humility and dedication to his audience make him a beloved figure in folk music, one whose work remains both timeless and relevant.