Gilbert O’Sullivan is truly a songwriter’s songwriter - a craftsman in the finest sense of the word, blessed with a relentless work ethic, a dry and sly wit and a keen lyrical, observational take on the human condition and all things love, life, pathos, and delight.
You knew all this of course, but it bears repeating, especially in the illuminating light of present day.
O’Sullivan has continued to bring forth his profound works in select live performances (both solo and full band) to thrilled audiences across Europe, Japan and assorted parts across the continents for some time.
“Alone Again (Naturally)” is of course the iconic, monumental, masterful heartstrings-puller that reached #3 in the UK, and a stunning #1 in America spending six non-consecutive weeks at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, selling nearly two million copies. It also garnered three Grammy nominations, no small feat in highly competitive 1972. The gorgeous nylon-string guitar solo was played by British session great Big Jim Sullivan.
He delights in going “back to the desk” as he told Graham Norton recently (on Norton’s celebrated and highly rated podcast), releasing treasured albums “every couple years” and then excitedly bringing these works along with his extensive catalogue to the faithful and new converts in equal measure.
O’Sullivan is the winner of three coveted Ivor Novello awards in the UK, one for “Songwriter Of The Year” in 1972. He thankfully prevailed throughout the difficult time of litigation with his former manager and record label, which finally ended in 1982. But it was always the song, the songwriter and the joy of crafting his work that consistently maintained his daily beat.
Here’s to 2026 and all that it may bring for this inspired craftsman, both on the boards in the roar of the greasepaint - and within the solace of his workshop, coaxing still more wonder from his keyboard and personal muse.
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