Gerry Cott

Gerry Cott is a musician and songwriter, best known as the guitarist and founding member of the Irish new wave band The Boomtown Rats, alongside Bob Geldof, Johnny Fingers, Pete Briquette, Simon Crowe, and Johnnie Fingers. Cott's music career has been influenced by various artists, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Who. He has also been associated with other notable musicians, such as Elvis Costello, The Clash, and The Sex Pistols. Cott's work has been compared to that of other prominent guitarists, including Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, and Jeff Beck.

● Early Life and Career

Gerry Cott was born in Dublin, Ireland, and grew up in a musical family, influenced by his parents' love of jazz and blues music, particularly Louis Armstrong and B.B. King. He began playing the guitar at a young age, inspired by The Kinks and The Animals. Cott's early musical experiences were shaped by his attendance at concerts by The Beatles and The Rolling Stones at the Royal Albert Hall and Wembley Stadium. He also drew inspiration from Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and The Doors.

● Music Career

Cott's music career began in the early 1970s, when he formed his first band, The Rats, with Bob Geldof and Johnny Fingers. The band's early sound was influenced by punk rock and new wave music, with bands like The Ramones, The New York Dolls, and Blondie being major influences. Cott's guitar playing was also shaped by his interest in reggae music, particularly Bob Marley and Peter Tosh. He has cited The Specials and Madness as influences on his songwriting style.

● The Boomtown Rats

In 1975, Cott co-founded The Boomtown Rats with Bob Geldof, Johnny Fingers, Pete Briquette, Simon Crowe, and Johnnie Fingers. The band's debut single, "Lookin' After No. 1", was released in 1977 and became a hit in the UK Singles Chart. Cott's guitar work was a key element of the band's sound, which was characterized by its blend of punk rock, new wave, and pop music. The band's music was influenced by The Stranglers, The Damned, and The Jam. Cott has also cited The Police and The Pretenders as influences on his guitar playing.

● Solo Work

After leaving The Boomtown Rats in 1981, Cott pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles, including The Rats and The Lonely Ghost. His solo work has been influenced by a range of artists, including David Bowie, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder. Cott has also collaborated with other musicians, such as Paul Weller and Ian Dury. He has performed at various music festivals, including Glastonbury Festival and Isle of Wight Festival.

● Personal Life

Gerry Cott is married to his wife, Sally Cott, and has two children, Emily Cott and James Cott. He currently resides in London, England, and continues to work on music projects, including collaborations with The Stranglers and The Damned. Cott is also involved in various charitable organizations, including Live Aid and Band Aid, which were founded by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure. He has also supported other charitable causes, such as Amnesty International and Greenpeace. Cott's personal life has been influenced by his friendships with other musicians, including Phil Lynott and Gary Moore. Category:Irish musicians