Paul Fox (musician)

Paul Fox (born Paul Andrew Fox, 6 April 1951 – 21 October 2007) was a British guitarist best known as a founding member of the influential punk rock band The Ruts.

Fox began his musical career playing in various pub rock bands before forming The Ruts in 1977 with singer Malcolm Owen, bassist John "Segs" Jennings, and drummer Dave Ruffy. The Ruts were known for their energetic performances and their politically charged lyrics, which addressed themes such as police brutality, social inequality, and racism. They quickly gained a following in the burgeoning punk scene in London.

The Ruts released their debut album, The Crack, in 1979, which is widely considered a classic of the punk genre. The album featured popular tracks such as "Babylon's Burning," "Something That I Said," and "Jah War." Fox's distinctive guitar playing, characterized by its raw energy and melodic sensibility, was a key component of the band's sound.

Following the death of Malcolm Owen from a heroin overdose in 1980, The Ruts disbanded. Fox continued to be active in the music industry, playing in various bands and working as a session musician. He also produced music for other artists.

In 2007, Fox reunited with Jennings and Ruffy to perform a benefit concert for Owen's family, under the name Ruts DC (the "DC" standing for "Da Capo," meaning "from the beginning"). The reunion was well-received, and the band continued to tour and record new music.

Paul Fox died of lung cancer on October 21, 2007, at the age of 56. His contribution to the punk rock movement and his influence on subsequent generations of guitarists are widely recognized.