Bert Jansch

Inspiring generations of musicians, Scottish guitarist and songwriter Bert Jansch will be forever known for his remarkable talent and a leading figure in the British folk revival. A founding member of folk supergroup Pentangle, the virtuoso came to prominence in the 60s becoming widely known for his exemplary guitar technique and his innovative blend of folk, blues and jazz.

Led Zeppelin, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Jimmy Page, Donovan and Johnny Marr have long been fans and artists such as Devendra Banhart and Beth Orton went on to record on his last album. Reaching people far and wide, he deservedly received many accolades during his lifetime for his contributions to music including Radio 2’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Radio 2 Folk Awards. Bert Jansch was quoted as saying “I’m not playing for anyone, just myself”. 

In 2015, Earth Recordings took up the mantle to re-introduce audiences to some of Jansch’s lesser-known works (most notably, the avian-themed ‘Avocet’ which found its way, quite remarkably, into the charts). Since the mid-1960s, generation after generation have been held spellbound by his extraordinary musicianship and unique, groundbreaking songs.

It is no coincidence that the great and good of the music industry are falling over themselves to contribute to ‘Bert Inspired’ (a charitable record that will help to fund the transcription of Bert’s Songs, released by Earth in 2017).

“You hear this master traversing a musical map of his life, hard times and all” Pitchfork