Billy Bragg, affectionately dubbed the 'Bard of Barking', rose to widespread recognition as a one-man phenomenon, busking his way across Britain with a guitar and portable amplifier, drawing parallels to the iconic punk rock group, The Clash.
Prior to his music career, Bragg briefly served in the Army, before forming a punk band, Riff Raff, which, however, failed to gain significant traction.
It wasn't until the release of his debut mini-LP, "Life's a Riot", on the independent Utility label, that Bragg first charted in the UK with the protest EP, "Between the Wars".
Throughout his career, Bragg has enjoyed minor chart success, including an unexpected number one hit with a charity cover of the Beatles' classic, "She's Leaving Home", and a collaboration with members of the renowned rock band, R.E.M.
Consistently receiving critical acclaim, Bragg has remained a steadfast advocate for humanitarian and left-wing causes, and was a founding member of Red Wedge, the music coalition that supported the Labour Party in the 1987 election.
However, Bragg has since withdrawn his support for New Labour.
Settling down with a small son, Jack, Bragg has completed the "William Bloke" LP and embarked on a touring schedule.
