Scott Walker
Biography of Scott Walker
Full Name and Common Aliases
Scott Walker, born Noel Scott Engel, was an influential figure in the music industry. He is often referred to simply as Scott Walker, a name he adopted during his early career.
Birth and Death Dates
Scott Walker was born on January 9, 1943, and passed away on March 22, 2019. His life spanned over seven decades, during which he left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Scott Walker was an American-born musician who later became a British citizen. He was a singer, songwriter, and record producer, known for his distinctive baritone voice and innovative approach to music.
Early Life and Background
Scott Walker was born in Hamilton, Ohio, and grew up in a family that moved frequently, eventually settling in California. From a young age, Walker showed a keen interest in music, influenced by the rich tapestry of American pop and jazz. His early exposure to diverse musical styles laid the foundation for his eclectic career. As a teenager, he began performing professionally, and by the early 1960s, he had moved to Los Angeles, where he became involved in the music scene.
Major Accomplishments
Scott Walker's major accomplishments began with his role in the pop trio The Walker Brothers, which he formed with John Maus and Gary Leeds. The group achieved significant success in the mid-1960s, particularly in the United Kingdom, with hits like "The Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Anymore" and "Make It Easy on Yourself." These songs topped the charts and established Walker as a prominent figure in the music industry.
After the initial success of The Walker Brothers, Scott Walker embarked on a solo career that allowed him to explore more avant-garde and experimental music. His solo albums, particularly the series titled "Scott," "Scott 2," "Scott 3," and "Scott 4," showcased his deep, emotive voice and his ability to blend pop with orchestral arrangements. These albums are considered classics and have influenced countless musicians.
Notable Works or Actions
Scott Walker's notable works include his solo albums, which are revered for their artistic depth and innovation. "Scott 4," in particular, is often cited as a masterpiece, despite its initial commercial failure. The album's introspective lyrics and complex compositions were ahead of their time, and it has since gained a cult following.
In addition to his solo work, Walker's later career was marked by a series of experimental albums that pushed the boundaries of music. Albums like "Tilt," "The Drift," and "Bish Bosch" are characterized by their avant-garde soundscapes and abstract themes. These works solidified Walker's reputation as a pioneer in experimental music.
Impact and Legacy
Scott Walker's impact on music is profound and far-reaching. He is credited with bridging the gap between pop and avant-garde music, influencing a wide range of artists across genres. His willingness to take risks and defy conventional norms has inspired musicians such as David Bowie, Radiohead, and Jarvis Cocker, among others.
Walker's legacy is also evident in the way he approached music as an art form. He was not content with commercial success alone; instead, he sought to create music that challenged listeners and provoked thought. This commitment to artistic integrity has earned him a lasting place in the pantheon of music legends.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Scott Walker is widely quoted and remembered for his unique voice and his fearless approach to music. His lyrics often delved into existential themes, exploring the human condition with a poetic and sometimes unsettling lens. This depth and complexity have made his words resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Moreover, Walker's influence on subsequent generations of musicians ensures that his work continues to be celebrated and studied. His ability to transform personal and abstract ideas into compelling music has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire and captivate. Scott Walker is remembered not only for his contributions to music but also for his unwavering dedication to pushing the boundaries of what music can be.
Quotes by Scott Walker
Scott Walker's insights on:
And I think Governor Romney has a shot if the 'R' next to his name doesn't just stand for 'Republican,' it stands for 'reformer.'
Certainly political capital-slash-celebrity attention, whatever you want to call it, certainly is part of the reason why I've been reaching out to CEOs. There's a lot of folks who probably would have taken a call from me before but are even more inclined now and are interested in what we're doing because of all the attention.
Looking at America's history, ordinary people did something extraordinary. Leaders risked their lives for freedoms that we take for granted today. That's what instills confidence. That's us. We will move forward and prosper because that's who we are as Americans.
I hate big government, but I really hate a government that doesn't work. So when 'they say we either have to raise taxes or cut core services,' it's actually a 'false choice.'
Collective bargaining isn’t a right, it is an expensive entitlement. Once and for all, we are giving the taxpayers a voice in this debate. We put the power back in the hands of the people.
I’ve often heard the complaint from both Democrat and Republican voters alike that they hate the fact that politicians get into office and they – and they’re fearful, they’re fearful to make tough decisions because they think more about the next election than they do about the next-generation.
But Mitt Romney understands, like I understand, that people – not governments – create jobs.
I promised to empower the taxpayer – instead of a handful of big government union bosses.