Mike Harding

About

Known for such popular songs and albums as "The Rochdale Cowboy" and One Man Show, this British folk singer and songwriter also had a career as a stand-up comic and humor writer, appearing on several BBC programs and penning such books as The Unluckiest Man in the World and The Armchair Anarchist's Almanac.

Before Fame

After working as a waste collector, public transit employee, and steelworker, he studied education and English at the University of Manchester. He recorded his debut album, A Lancashire Lad, in the early 1970s.

Trivia

He wrote the scores for two British children's series: Count Duckula and DangerMouse.

Family Life

His father, a member of the World War II-era Royal Air Force, was killed just weeks prior to his birth. He was raised by his Irish mother in Crumpsall and Manchester, England.

Associated With

For many years, he hosted BBC Radio's Folk Awards. His fellow English folk musician, Kathryn Tickell, was the recipient of one of these honors.