Alan Reid: Folk Musician and Songwriter

Photo: alan reid. Alan Reid was born in Galsgow's Bridgeton and moved to Kilmarnock when he was seven years old. At Strathclyde University in 1969 he met up with Brian McNeill and joined the fledgling folk group Battlefield Band . The band quickly became pre-eminent in the emerging new Scottish folk scene of the early 1970s that produced such influential groups as the Tannahill Weavers, Silly Wizard, the McCalmans and later Ossian.

In his time with the band Alan made around 30 critically acclaimed albums and toured all over the world , including many tours of the U.S.A. where he says there are 5 States he has yet to perform in. Over the years Alan honed his skill as a songwriter, his songs becoming a regular feature of the band's repertoire and often noted for their storytellling element and strong melody. But his songs cover a wide sweep from historical ballad to love songs and political song. This was recognised in 2009 when he was nominated as composer of the year at the Scots Tradition Awards.

In 2010 Alan decided to leave Battlefield Band to concentrate on other projects, particularly his duo with singer and guitarist Rob van Sante. The duo have made 2 albums 'Under the Blue' and 'The Rise and Fall o' Charlie', both featuring Alan's songs. Another is in the pipeline, a concept album of original songs and tunes on the colourful life of John Paul Jones, the Scots born sailor who became a hero to the Americans during their War of Independence but was also prominent in various European campaigns in the late 18th century.

February 2011 has seen the release of an album of Alan's favourite songs from his Battlefield Band years which should further cement his reputation as a songwriter as well as being a record of a distinguished career in Scottish music.

Alan continues to write songs, tour and record.

www.reidvansante.com

myspace reid van sante

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