
Richard Ashcroft was born September 11, 1971 in Wigan, Lancashire and is an English singer and songwriter. He originally was the lead singer and songwriter of alt-rock band The Verve from their formation in 1990 until their original split in 1999. Richard Ashcroft had originally fancied himself as a footballer, playing junior football for Wigan Athletic, but stuck with The Verve instead, releasing three albums including the UK Number 1 and BRIT Award-winning Urban Hymns in 1997. Richard Ashcroft was named Songwriter of the Year at the 1998 Ivors, as well as their Outstanding Contribution to British Music award in 2019. Richard Ashcroft launched his solo career in 2000, and has since chalked up a string of successful albums including his debut, the UK Number 1 Alone With Everybody in 2000. Image: Shutterstock