Charlie Morgan

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Charlie Morgan, born on 9 August 1955 as John Charles Morgan in Hammersmith, London, England, is an English drummer and percussionist. Educated mostly in west London, at St Peter's Primary School, Hammersmith, Chiswick & Bedford Park Preparatory School, and Latymer Upper School (also responsible for the education of such luminaries as actors, Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman and comedian, Mel Smith). Spent a brief interlude in Geneva, Switzerland between 1967-69, where he learnt to speak fluent French, and also first began playing drums. Upon his return to London, he continued his education at Latymer, eventually leaving school in 1973 to pursue a career in the music business.

After several early attempts at stardom, signing contracts with a several bands (with invariably disastrous consequences), he decided to concentrate on session work. First successes came with Kate Bush's "Lionheart" album in1978, followed by a single and world tour with the final line-up of the Tom Robinson Band (TRB). In 1980/81 he toured and recorded with British vocalist/songwriter Judie Tzuke.

By 1985, he was one of the busiest session drummers in Europe, which attracted the attention of Elton John, who booked him to play on his "Ice on Fire" album. Later that year Elton invited him to play with his band at Live Aid. This was the start of a 13 year period of recording and touring with Elton.

Amongst the other artists Charlie has recorded with are: Paul McCartney, Tina Turner (We Don't Need Another Hero, from the movie: Mad Max, Beyond the Thunderdome), Nik Kershaw (Human Racing, The Riddle & Radio Musicola), Tracey Ullman (They Don't Know), Matt Bianco, Gary Moore, Pete Townshend (Iron Man).

He currently lives in Florida with his second wife, Jerilyn, and has been a regular player with 1980's hit-band, Orleans since 2000. He also runs an independent, home-based studio, Manicdrums Productions, where he records drum tracks for clients from all over the world. Even his nephew Alex Koester got a drum set and is taking lessons after him!

Co-wrote the theme tune to TV-series, The Bill, with bassist, Andy Pask.