Midge Ure
Midge Ure
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Full Name and Common Aliases
James Malcolm William Ure, known professionally as Midge Ure, is a Scottish musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 10, 1950, in Clementine Cottage, Dunoon, Argyll and Bute, Scotland. Still active in the music industry today.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Scottish, musician, singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Glasgow, Scotland, Ure's early life was marked by a strong musical influence from his parents. His mother, a pianist, would often play classical music at home, while his father introduced him to the likes of Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. This eclectic mix of genres laid the foundation for Ure's future musical endeavors.
At the age of 14, Ure joined his first band, Slik, which achieved moderate success in the UK. However, it was during this time that he began to develop a passion for songwriting and guitar playing.
Major Accomplishments
Ure's rise to fame began with the formation of Thin Lizzy in 1977, where he played keyboards alongside Brian Downey and Eric Bell. Although he left the band after just one year, his contributions during this period remain significant.
In 1980, Ure co-founded the British supergroup Visage, alongside Midge's Thin Lizzy bandmate, Billy Currie. Visage's iconic single, "Fade to Grey," remains a staple of the early 80s synth-pop era.
Notable Works or Actions
One of Ure's most notable achievements is his work with the charity supergroup Band Aid, which he co-founded in 1984 alongside Bob Geldof. This initiative aimed to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, resulting in the now-legendary single "Do They Know It's Christmas?," which sold over 3.7 million copies worldwide.
Ure has also been a key figure in the Live Aid concert series, performing at both the original 1985 event and its 20th-anniversary reunion in 2005.
Impact and Legacy
Throughout his career, Midge Ure has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to philanthropy. His involvement with Band Aid has had a profound impact on global charity efforts, inspiring numerous other initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty and famine worldwide.
Ure's influence extends beyond his charitable endeavors as well. As a musician and songwriter, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry, contributing to some of the most iconic songs of the past few decades.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Midge Ure is widely quoted or remembered for his tireless dedication to social causes, as well as his innovative approach to songwriting and production. His unwavering passion for music has inspired generations of artists, and his philanthropic efforts continue to make a lasting impact on the world.
As a true pioneer in the music industry, Ure's legacy serves as a testament to the power of art to drive positive change and inspire others to do the same.
Quotes by Midge Ure
You think that religion is a thing that is there to help you and to see you through life, and then you wake up one morning and find the entire Irish situation, the civil war that's based on religion.
I start with the subject matter I want to write about. Then I make a musical base for that and create an atmosphere with the music. Once I’ve done that, the lyrics come last.
You are talking to a man who can only play a plastic keyboard. Give me anything weighted and I’ve had it. I haven’t got the strength in my fingers to push them down. So I don’t get a lot of expression on the keyboard.
You think that religion is a thing that is there to help you and to see you through life, and then you wake up one morning and find the entire Irish situation, the civil war thats based on religion.
I start with the subject matter I want to write about. Then I make a musical base for that and create an atmosphere with the music. Once I've done that, the lyrics come last.
In the music industry, you meet some not very nice people, some very strange characters.
You are talking to a man who can only play a plastic keyboard. Give me anything weighted and I've had it. I haven't got the strength in my fingers to push them down. So I don't get a lot of expression on the keyboard.
