Stereophonics

Biography

Famed for being the first ever signings to Richard Branson’s new music label, V2 Records, this three-piece Welsh rock band created an enormous buzz around the UK’s A&R departments before finally electing to join V2 in August 1996. Indeed, Branson was reported to have taken a personal hand in their signing. Dovetailing 60s-inspired pop melodicism with new technology, the Newport-based trio was first spotted by V2’s A&R head Ronnie Gurr via a tip-off. However, they were keen to distance themselves from Newport’s recent press designation as ‘the Seattle of the 90s’, refusing to acknowledge any kinship with bands such as the 60 Foot Dolls or the Welsh-language movement. The band was formed by three friends: songwriter Kelly Jones (3 June 1974, Cwmamman, Wales; guitar/vocals), Richard Jones (b. 23 May 1974, Aberdare, Wales; bass) and Stuart Cable (b. 19 May 1970, Aberdare, Wales; drums), grew up with each other in the small Welsh...

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