Victor Anthony "Viv" Stanshall
- Born:
- 21 March 1943, Shillingford, Oxfordshire, England
- Died:
- 5 March 1995, Muswell Hill, London, England
- Nationality:
- British
- Profession(s):
- Musician, Singer-Songwriter, Writer, Poet, Artist
Early Life and Education
- Born Victor Anthony Stanshall, later known as Viv Stanshall.
- Evacuated to his grandparents during the war and had a difficult childhood with his parents.
- Educated at Southend Municipal College (Architecture) and Central School of Art and Design.
Career and Major Achievements
- Co-founded the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band in the 1960s, achieving cult status and mainstream success.
- Served as a master of ceremonies for various events and performances.
- Developed a distinctive vocal style and eccentric persona.
- Collaborated with numerous artists, including Steve Winwood and Neil Innes.
- Hosted radio shows and appeared on television programs.
Notable Works
Discography (Selected)
| Title | Year | Label |
|---|---|---|
| Gorilla (with Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band) | 1967 | Liberty |
| Tadpoles (with Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band) | 1969 | Liberty |
| Sir Henry at Rawlinson End | 1978 | Charisma |
Filmography (Selected)
| Title | Year | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Magical Mystery Tour | 1967 | Foot |
| Sir Henry at Rawlinson End | 1980 | Sir Henry Rawlinson |
Legacy and Impact
The legacy of Viv Stanshall resides in his innovative and absurdist contributions to British comedy and music. His unique voice and surreal storytelling continue to influence artists and performers.
This information provides key details surrounding the life and career, offering a factual account of his contributions.