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Artist
Strawbs
12+ albums
Progressive rockfolk rockprogressive folkfolkrock
about
Strawbs was an English rock band formed in 1964, led continuously by Dave Cousins (died 2025). Known for their folk-rock and progressive rock styles in the 1970s, the band featured early members like Sandy Denny (before she joined Fairport Convention), and Rick Wakeman (before his tenure with Yes). Originally called Strawberry Hill Boys, they began as a bluegrass group but soon shifted to original material primarily written by Cousins. They were the first UK act signed to Herb Alpert's A\&M Records, releasing their first single "Oh How She Changed" in 1968, and their debut album "Strawbs" in 1969. After the folk-tinged "Dragonfly," Rick Wakeman joined on keyboards alongside Richard Hudson (drums) and John Ford (bass). Their third album, "Just a Collection of Antiques and Curios," was recorded live at their London debut and was their first US release. Wakeman stayed for "From the Witchwood" before moving on to Yes, replaced by Blue Weaver. This lineup produced "Grave New World," often cited as a defining Strawbs album. Founding member Tony Hooper left, replaced by Dave Lambert, ushering in a harder rock sound. Lambert’s arrival coincided with hits like "Lay Down" (UK number 12) and "Part of the Union" (UK number 2) from the album "Bursting at the Seams," which reached number 2 on the UK charts. The band toured extensively before tensions during a US tour caused Hudson and Ford to leave and form Hudson Ford, while Weaver also departed. Cousins and Lambert rebuilt the ba
