Tom Hingley (former Inspiral Carpets Frontman 1989-2011)
Tom Hingley is not only a Gold Record Million selling Singer/Songwriter (who rose to international attention as former frontman of iconic British band Inspiral Carpets) but is also a published author, respected public speaker, and educator.
Early Musical Beginnings
Originally from the Oxfordshire area, Tom moved to Oldham in 1984, forming band ‘Too Much Texas’ whilst studying for a degree in English Literature at Manchester Polytechnic, and working at legendary Manchester venue The Haçienda.
Inspiral Carpets
Following on from this early success Tom joined Inspiral Carpets in 1989 as lead vocalist, and within a year this successful band were renowned the world over as icons of the ‘Madchester’ British music scene.
From international tours, to appearing on Top of The Pops, headlining the Reading Festival, Glastonbury and countless other appearances including supporting Paul Simon in Argentina, Tom fronted the band for 22 years with commercial and chart success including 15 top 40 singles (including the iconic singles ‘This Is How It Feels’, ‘Saturn 5’, and ‘I Want You’).
Inspiral Carpets also appeared on the most illustrious radio shows including Radio 1 (John Peel, Steve Lamacq & Mark Goodyear) Radio 2 (Janice Long) and Radio Four in addition to Tom himself presenting on Beatwolf and Starburst radio stations.
Tom Hingley Music
Since 2000 Tom has enjoyed a successful solo career, releasing albums both as a solo artist and as part of The Lovers with Paul & Steve Harley, both former members of The Fall. Tom also owns independent label Newmemorablia Records, a label on which he released an acoustic record titled ‘Thames Valley Delta Blues‘ amongst other successful albums.
As a solo artist, Tom performs original music; a blend of Folk, Soul, Gospel and Blues, in addition to renditions of Inspiral Carpets classic songs, and is an animated and eclectic performer on slide guitar also.
Tom Hingley and The Kar-Pets
Tom also performs internationally with his band The Kar-Pets, performing Inspiral Carpets songs and supporting other international touring artists including Embrace and Reverend and the Makers.
The Kar-Pets perform at festivals including headlining the Shine On Festival, where they shared maracas with none other than Bez from the Happy Mondays.
Author and Educator
In his established career Tom has also published his memoirs via Route Publishing with the 2012 book ‘Carpet Burns‘. This memoir details Tom’s eclectic life, career and international successes with Inspiral Carpets.
As an educator Tom not only taught Music Business Studies at both Salfordand Liverpool Universities, but also studied for a Phd in Music Performance, and he passes his skills and expertise in the music business on to a whole new generation of musicians.
Tom continues to tour internationally, releasing both solo and Kar-Petsalbums, in addition to his career as a respected public and event speaker.
