First & foremost I am a guitarist, composer, then singer. I've been a member of Simply Red, The Stone Roses & Asia but also written & performed with Paul Weller, Steven Wilson, JBK, Yukihiro Takahshi (Yellow Magic Orchestra), Overload, Hot Chocolate & Akala to name a few.Recently awarded Dr of Arts (honoris causa) from the University Of Salford. I have been delivering lectures and inspirational speaking across diversity/equality networks & educational institutions internationally.My goals are to work more in arts & culture. Since 2019 I have been a co-curator for the South Asia Gallery of Manchester Museum and have worked across Lancashire Heritage sites as 'Musician In Residence'. I have had 3 successful Arts Council bids and have toured the Middle East, North West Africa, India, Pakistan & Bangladesh with the British Council. Was invited to Buckingham Palace in recognition of my contribution to the UK's culture & economy. I also one the Jinna Music Award at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office.Currently I sit on the board of trustees for Olympias Music Foundation, a music teaching charity based in Manchester.