Gerry Beckley

Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Gerald Linford "Gerry" Beckley was born on September 12, 1952 in Forth Worth, Texas to an 'America' (qv)n father and an English mother. Beckley began playing the piano at age three and started playing guitar a few years later. In 1962, Gerry was a guitarist in the instrumental surf-rock band the Vanguards in Virginia. In 1967, Beckley's father became the commander at the U.S. Air Force Base at West Ruislip near London, England. Gerry attended London Central High School in Hartfordshire, where he played in various school bands and met fellow musicians 'Dan Peek' (qv) and 'Dewey Bunnell' (qv). The trio formed the folk-rock group 'America' (qv) in the late 60s. 'America' (qv) released their self-titled debut album in 1971 and have recorded over twenty albums to date. Moreover, the band has enjoyed a steady succession of hit songs throughout the 70s and 80s which include "A Horse With No Name", "Sister Golden Hair" (Beckley wrote this particular song), "Ventura Highway", "Tin Man" and "You Can Do Magic". Moreover, Gerry has also recorded solo albums which include "Van Go Gan", "Go Man Go" and "Happy Hour". Among the notable musicians he has collaborated with throughout the years are 'Brian Wilson' (qv) and 'Carl Wilson' (qv) of 'The Beach Boys' (qv), 'Robert Lamm' (qv) of 'Chicago' (qv), acclaimed singer/songwriter 'Jimmy Webb' (qv), 'Dave Mason' (qv), 'Rick Danko' (qv) and 'Dan Fogelberg' (qv). Beckley is married and has two sons named 'Joe Beckley' (qv) and 'Matt Beckley' (qv). Gerry continues to perform worldwide with 'Dewey Bunnell' (qv) as a member of 'America' (qv).::woodyanders