Who Is Richard Thompson (musician)? Age, Biography, and Wiki
As of 2025, Richard Thompson is 76 years old. Born in Notting Hill, London, he emerged as a prominent figure in the folk-rock movement in the late 1960s as a founding member of the acclaimed band Fairport Convention. Renowned for his exceptional guitar work and poetic songwriting, Thompson’s music traverses genres, making him a versatile artist admired worldwide. Over his career, he has released numerous albums, receiving accolades and awards for his contributions to music.
| Occupation | Folk Singer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 3, 1949 |
| Age | 76 Years |
| Birth Place | Notting Hill, London, England |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | England |
Popularity
Richard Thompson (musician)'s Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Richard Thompson's height is approximately 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm), and he maintains a fit physique that complements his dynamic stage presence. While his exact weight is not publicly disclosed, he showcases a vibrant energy during performances, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle for an artist on the go.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Richard Thompson has had a rich personal life, with notable relationships that have influenced his music. He was previously married to singer-songwriter Linda Thompson, and their collaborative work has yielded some of the most poignant music of the folk genre. As for his current relationship status, Thompson is believed to be single as of 2025, focusing on his music and artistic endeavors.
Thompson first gained prominence in the late 1960s as the lead guitarist and songwriter for the folk rock group Fairport Convention, which he had co-founded in 1967. After departing the group in 1971, Thompson released his debut solo album Henry the Human Fly in 1972.
The next year, he formed a duo with his wife Linda Thompson, which produced six albums, including the critically acclaimed I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight (1974) and Shoot Out the Lights (1982). After the dissolution of the duo, Thompson revived his solo career with the release of Hand of Kindness in 1983.
He has released eighteen solo studio albums. Three of his albumsRumor and Sigh (1991), You? Me? Us? (1996), and Dream Attic (2010)have been nominated for Grammy Awards, while Still (2015) was his first UK Top Ten album.
He continues to write and record new material and has frequently performed at venues throughout the world, although the COVID-19 pandemic forced him to suspend his touring.
Net Worth and Salary
With a prolific career spanning over five decades, Richard Thompson's estimated net worth is around $5 million in 2025. His earnings primarily stem from album sales, music royalties, live performances, and songwriting credits. Thompson's enduring relevance in the music industry ensures a stead stream of income, allowing him to continue producing quality music.
Career, Business and Investments
Richard Thompson’s career is distinguished by his profound storytelling through song and his masterful guitar playing. In addition to his work with Fairport Convention, he has released solo albums that have received critical acclaim. His commitment to preserving traditional music forms while infusing them with modern sensibilities has garnered a loyal fanbase. Furthermore, Thompson is involved in various business ventures related to music, including songwriting workshops and musical collaborations.
At the age of 18 Thompson co-founded folk rock group Fairport Convention. Largely on the strength of Thompson's playing, Boyd took them under his wing and signed them to his Witchseason production and management company.
Social Network
Richard Thompson maintains an active presence on social media platforms, allowing fans to connect closely with his journey. His official accounts provide updates on his music, upcoming tours, and personal insights into his life as a musician. Follow him on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for the latest news and personal anecdotes.
Boyd said: "And there was this group of very nice Muswell Hill grammar school boys and a girl playing American music. Leonard Cohen songs, and Richard Fariña songs, and Bob Dylan songs, all being done in a kind of West-Coasty rock style. And then came the guitar solo, and Richard just played the most amazing solo.
He played a solo which quotes from Django, from Charlie Christian, you know, an incredibly sophisticated little solo. And that really amazed me, the breadth of his sophistication... and so, you know, at the end of the gig I was in the dressing room saying 'would you guys like to make a record?'"
Education
While Richard Thompson's formal education details are not widely publicized, his musical education began early. He was exposed to various musical styles from a young age, which significantly influenced his songwriting and performance skills. His talent on the guitar and songwriting capabilities were honed through years of experience rather than traditional academic training, showcasing his natural aptitude for music.
Interviewed in 2003, Thompson said: "Listening to Buddy Holly in 1956 was the point at which I wanted to pick up a guitar, although I didn't actually manage to do that until 1960 ...
I played Shadows songs in school bands until I started hanging around with the guys that became Fairport Convention, and we would play Bob Dylan, Phil Ochs, Richard Fariña ... the American singer-songwriters. We would go to Dylan's publisher and ask for songs that hadn't been recorded. We were interested in lyrics, and we were pretty idealistic."
