Who doesn’t know them? Hits like “Blinded By The Light,” “Davy’s On The Road Again,” “Father of Day, Father of Night,” “Mighty Quinn,” and “I Came For You” have classic status.
Over 40 years ago, Manfred Mann founded his legendary Earth Band, with which he regularly appeared in the charts throughout the 1970s and early 1980s and played to sold-out audiences across Europe. The Earth Band became famous early on for their sensational live concerts. A founding member in 1971 was Mick Rogers, who still plays in the band today.
In early 1992, the group—which had disbanded in 1988—was brought back to life by Manfred Mann. At first, apart from the London-based bandleader (born in 1940), only Noel McCalla (vocals), Mick Rogers (guitar, vocals), Steve Kinch (bass), and former Jethro Tull drummer Clive Bunker were involved. Later, Chris Thompson (Earth Band member from 1976 to 1980) joined briefly. However, Chris Thompson left the Earth Band again in 1998.
A legendary double live album released in 1997 showcased the band’s class. In 2004, Manfred Mann released his latest studio album, titled “2006.” With this album, too, he once again proved how creative and pioneering he is. A performance on Thomas Gottschalk’s TV show Rockgiganten in November 2004 caused the subsequent MMEB tour to sell out.
In December 2005, Manfred Mann performed at the Night of the Proms with his former singer Chris Thompson, thrilled the audience with his big hits, and received standing ovations.
