Benjamin Watt

Benjamin Brian Thomas Watt, an English musician, was born on December 6, 1962, in Marylebone, London, England. He is best known as being one half of the duo Everything But The Girl, along with his partner Tracey Thorn. His early life in London set the stage for his future in music, which was later influenced by his time studying at the University of Hull.

In 1981, Ben Watt began his studies at the University of Hull, where he would meet his future musical partner, Tracey Thorn. During his time at university, Watt explored various musical influences and honed his songwriting skills. His experience at Hull was instrumental in shaping his career in the music industry.

In 1982, Ben Watt and Tracey Thorn formed the musical duo Everything But The Girl. The pair met at the University of Hull and decided to collaborate on music, eventually leading to a longstanding partnership. Everything But The Girl became known for its unique blend of jazz, pop, and electronic music.

On August 27, 1984, Everything But The Girl released their debut studio album, 'Eden'. The album featured a mix of jazz and pop influences and introduced the world to the unique sound of Ben Watt and Tracey Thorn. The album included singles like 'Each and Every One', which gained critical acclaim and commercial success.

In April 1992, Ben Watt was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease known as Churg-Strauss syndrome. This condition led to a lengthy hospitalization and caused Watt to reevaluate his life and career. His battle with the disease was documented in his memoir, 'Patient', which offered an intimate look at his struggles and recovery.

On May 8, 1995, Everything But The Girl released their album 'Amplified Heart'. The album marked a significant turning point for the duo, featuring the hit single 'Missing', which became a worldwide success. The track highlighted Ben Watt's innovative production skills and Tracey Thorn's emotive vocals, leading to renewed popularity.

In 1998, Ben Watt released 'North Marine Drive', a solo album that demonstrated his skills as a songwriter and musician independent of Everything But The Girl. The album, a collection of introspective songs, showcased Watt's ability to blend folk and jazz influences. It was well-received, highlighting his versatility in music.

In November 2003, Ben Watt published his memoir 'Patient', which recounted his experience with Churg-Strauss syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease that nearly ended his life. The book provided a poignant look at Watt's journey through illness and recovery, offering insights into his personal struggles and triumphs.

On April 14, 2014, Ben Watt released 'Hendra', his first solo album in over 30 years. The album featured collaborations with artists such as David Gilmour and Bernard Butler, and was a critical success. It marked a new chapter in Watt's musical career, showcasing his growth and evolution as an artist.

In 2016, Ben Watt released 'Fever Dream', his third solo studio album. The album continued Watt's exploration of introspective themes and showcased his matured songwriting abilities. It was praised for its emotional depth and musical sophistication, further establishing Watt's reputation as a talented solo artist.

On February 14, 2020, Ben Watt released 'Storm Damage', an album that reflected on contemporary issues and personal experiences. The album was noted for its experimental sound and emotional candor, showcasing Watt's ability to remain relevant and innovative in the ever-changing music landscape.