"The Guitarists", Sunday 15 April , 18:00 repeat

David Randall talks to Michael Schenker about his career

Michael Schenker UK tour (May 2012)

May 9 Wolverhampton, Wulfrun Hall
May 10 Manchester, The Ritz
May 11 Glasgow ABC
May 12 London Shepherd's Bush Empire

Broadcast history

November 2009, Featured Artist
"The Guitarists", Sunday 10 October 2010, 18:00
David Randall talks to Michael Schenker about his career
Sunday 15 May 2011, 18:00 repeat
High Voltage 2011

MICHAEL SCHENKER

Michael Schenker was a founder member of the Scorpions and remained with them until 1973 when he joined UFO.  He first appeared on the 'Phenomenon' album (1974) but left after the "Strangers In the Night" tour in 1978 which many considered the apex of that band's career.

In spite of a brief return to The Scorpions and the 1979 album 'Lovedrive', Schenker decided to pursue a solo career and recruited Gary Barden to form the first version of The Michael Schenker Group (MSG).  After two albums, Barden was replaced by Graham Bonnet (Rainbow, Alcatrazz) but Bonnet left after only one album and Barden briefly returned for two more.

In the late-1980's Schenker developed the more commercial McAuley Schenker Group with Robin McAuley (vocals).  The following decade was marked by a UFO reunion but also personal problems which came to a head with a divorce, debt, and drink.  However, he continued to produce excellent albums, not least the 'Thank You' acoustic series.

In recent years, Schenker has reunited with Gary Barden who now fronts the current incarnation of the Michael Schenker Group.

UFO-era Schenker (and beyond) has been highly influential for other guitarists including Europe's John Norum who cites him as a key influence.

Album review

Michael Schenker gig review (Bristol, 20 December 2009)

Michael Schenker website