40 Facts About Charlie Burchill

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Charlie Burchill's journey into music began in Glasgow, Scotland. His early experiences shaped his future as a legendary guitarist.

1. Charlie Burchill was born on November 27, 1959, in Glasgow, Scotland. His Scottish roots played a significant role in his musical influences and style.

2. At nine years old, Burchill received his first guitar from his mother. She bought it using coupons from Embassy cigarette packets, showing the family's resourcefulness.

3. Burchill's older brothers influenced his early musical development. One brother bought a semi-decent guitar that Burchill "borrowed" when his brother lost interest.

4. In 1977, Burchill and Jim Kerr joined Johnny and the Self Abusers. This band was part of Glasgow's punk scene, providing them opportunities to play and develop their skills.

5. After Johnny and the Self Abusers disbanded, Burchill and Kerr formed Simple Minds. This marked the beginning of a successful career that would span decades.

Musical Influences and Style

Burchill's unique guitar style and musical influences have been pivotal in shaping Simple Minds' sound.

6. Burchill's early setup with Simple Minds was simple. He used a transistor Carlsbro amplifier and relied heavily on delay effects.

7. In the early 1980s, Burchill discovered the Gretsch White Falcon. This guitar became his go-to instrument, captivating him with its unique sound and aesthetic.

8. Burchill's musical influences include The Doors, Velvet Underground, and Roxy Music. These bands reflect his background in psychedelic rock.

9. He also admires Joni Mitchell and Tom Verlaine. This highlights his appreciation for folk and new wave music.

10. Burchill's guitar playing style is atmospheric and textural. He often uses effects like delay and chorus to create subtle yet potent sounds.

Prominence in Simple Minds

As Simple Minds evolved, Burchill's role in the band became more prominent.

11. Burchill's guitar playing became more prominent in the mix as Simple Minds progressed. His contributions were no longer just subtle textures but integral parts of the songs.

12. Beyond guitar, Burchill is proficient in playing the violin and saxophone. These instruments featured in Simple Minds' early studio albums.

13. Burchill took over most studio keyboard duties after Mick MacNeil's departure in 1989. This allowed him to diversify his contributions to the band's sound.

14. Burchill often collaborates with Jim Kerr on songwriting. Their intricate rapport allows them to weave complex webs of sound.

15. Burchill loves touring and performing live. His enthusiasm is evident in his extensive touring history with Simple Minds.

Gear and Equipment

Burchill's gear has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting his quest for the perfect sound.

16. In the early 1980s, Burchill used a Roland 501 Echo unit into a Roland JC120 amp. This setup helped create the distinctive Simple Minds sound.

17. Later, he switched to Marshall JCM 900 amps. He also incorporated effects like the Eventide Harmonizer and TC Electronic 2290 delay.

18. As of 2017, Burchill uses Matchless amplifiers. His range of modern and vintage guitars includes a Gretsch White Falcon and a 1969 Gibson Les Paul.

19. His current gear includes the TC Electronic G-System and Line 6 Vetta amplifiers. This setup helps him achieve his signature atmospheric sound.

20. Burchill is a collector of Gretsch guitars. The White Falcon remains his most prized instrument.

Career Milestones and Achievements

Burchill's career with Simple Minds has been marked by numerous milestones and achievements.

21. Simple Minds achieved significant success with hits like “Waterfront” and “Glittering Prize.” These songs helped establish the band's early popularity.

22. Their album Once Upon a Time brought them a #1 chart spot in the UK. It also reached #10 in the US with hits like “Alive and Kicking.”

23. The single “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” became a massive hit in the US. Featured in the film The Breakfast Club, it cemented Simple Minds' place in American music.

24. Simple Minds played at the Live Aid concert in 1985. This performance helped raise funds for Ethiopian famine relief.

25. They also supported Nelson Mandela's release at the Mandela Day concert in 1988. This showcased the band's commitment to social causes.

Personal Life and Interests

Beyond his musical career, Burchill has a rich personal life and diverse interests.

26. Burchill is known for his friendly and outgoing personality. He often engages strangers in lengthy conversations.

27. He has learned to speak Italian and is working on his Spanish. This linguistic versatility reflects his curiosity and love for learning.

28. Burchill's first hitch-hiking trip with Jim Kerr at 16 set the stage for a lifetime of touring. His love for live performances remains strong.

29. Burchill aspires to be a songwriter, arranger, and producer. His multi-faceted talents have allowed him to contribute significantly to Simple Minds' recordings.

30. Burchill's proficiency in playing the saxophone and violin adds depth to Simple Minds' music. These skills have been featured prominently in their early studio albums.

Legacy and Impact

Charlie Burchill's legacy in the music industry is multifaceted and enduring.

31. Burchill's contributions to rock music are undeniable. His unique guitar playing style has influenced a generation of musicians.

32. His guitar work has been instrumental in shaping Simple Minds' sound. His contributions are crucial to the band's success.

33. Burchill's live performances are characterized by their energy and passion. His ability to connect with the audience has made Simple Minds a beloved act.

34. The songwriting process between Burchill and Kerr is highly collaborative. This approach has been instrumental in shaping Simple Minds' distinctive sound.

35. Burchill's philosophy on music emphasizes creativity and experimentation. He believes in pushing the boundaries of what is possible with guitar playing.

36. Burchill is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His melodic riffs and unique style have captivated audiences worldwide.

37. Burchill continues to contribute significantly to Simple Minds' music. His ongoing work with the band reflects his dedication to their legacy.

38. Simple Minds released an acoustic album titled Acoustic in 2016. This album featured re-recordings of songs from their extensive career.

39. As of 2017, Burchill was working on a new studio album with Jim Kerr. This project marked another chapter in the band's ongoing creative journey.

40. Burchill's legacy in the music industry is multifaceted. He has inspired generations of musicians with his unique playing style.

Charlie Burchill's Enduring Legacy

Charlie Burchill's journey from a young boy in Glasgow to a legendary guitarist with Simple Minds is nothing short of inspiring. His unique guitar style, characterized by atmospheric and textural qualities, has left a lasting impact on rock music. Burchill's contributions to hits like "Don't You (Forget About Me)" and "Alive and Kicking" have cemented his place in music history. Beyond his guitar prowess, his multi-instrumental talents and collaborative songwriting with Jim Kerr have shaped Simple Minds' distinctive sound. His dedication to philanthropy and love for live performances showcase his commitment to both music and social causes. Burchill's legacy is a testament to his passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication to his craft. As he continues to create and perform, Charlie Burchill remains a true icon in the world of rock music.