Chris Foster (folk singer)

Chris Foster (born 1946, died 2024) was an English folk singer and musician known for his powerful voice, intricate guitar playing, and deep knowledge of traditional songs. He was a prominent figure in the British folk revival movement, particularly during the 1970s and 1980s.

Foster's repertoire encompassed a wide range of traditional English folk songs, ballads, and sea shanties, often featuring tales of social injustice, historical events, and the lives of ordinary people. He was admired for his ability to bring these songs to life with his expressive vocals and sensitive interpretations.

He was self-taught as a guitarist and developed a distinctive fingerpicking style that complemented his singing. His guitar arrangements were often complex and incorporated elements of classical music.

Foster released several critically acclaimed albums throughout his career, including Layers (1977), All Things in Common (1981), and Trilogy (1986). He also toured extensively, performing at folk clubs, festivals, and concert halls both in the UK and internationally.

Although he maintained a relatively low profile in later years, Chris Foster's contributions to the English folk music scene are widely recognized. His recordings continue to be appreciated by folk enthusiasts, and he is remembered as one of the finest singers and guitarists of his generation.