Steve Upton

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Steve Upton (born in Wrexham, Wales on May 24, 1946, although grew up in Exeter, Devon, England) is the powerhouse drummer behind the rock band Wishbone Ash. He was with the band for two decades (1969-1990). His tight, precise drumming would be a key element of the band's sound. Upton, who is left-handed, is one of the first drummers to sport the open handed drumming. Combining this with his dynamic and precision playing, made him an essential part of the band. Steve emerged as one of the most influential drummers of the era.

Upton also was more than just "the drummer in Wishbone Ash". At some stages of the band's career, Steve would also take care of the general day-to-day running of the band – liaising with managers, agents, road crews, promoters, etc. – earning himself the title "The Colonel" in the process. By the late 1980s Steve effectively had assumed the role of full-time band manager. In 1990, Upton departed from the band owing to personal problems and a desire for a quiet life. Steve went on to manage Miles Copeland's chateaux in the South of France, but no longer has any active involvement with the music business.