Paul Chapman is an English guitarist best known for his time as a member of the rock band UFO. Born on 9 June 1954, in Cardiff, Wales, Chapman developed a passion for music at a young age. He began playing guitar in his early teens and quickly honed his skills, eventually catching the attention of various musicians in the local music scene.
Chapman's breakthrough came in 1974 when he joined the band Skid Row, not to be confused with the American band of the same name. Skid Row featured former Thin Lizzy members Brush Shiels and Eric Bell. Chapman's tenure with Skid Row was short-lived, but it provided him with valuable experience and exposure.
In 1978, Chapman's career took a significant turn when he was recruited by the iconic British rock band UFO to replace Michael Schenker as their lead guitarist. Joining UFO at a crucial point in their career, Chapman played a pivotal role in the band's musical evolution. He contributed to three studio albums: "No Place To Run" (1980), "The Wild, the Willing and the Innocent" (1981), and "Mechanix" (1982).
During his time with UFO, Chapman displayed his exceptional guitar skills, bringing a fresh energy and style to the band's sound. His playing blended melodic sensibilities with a hard-rock edge, allowing UFO to explore new musical territories while retaining their trademark sound.
Unfortunately, UFO disbanded in 1983, and Chapman pursued other musical endeavors. He formed his own band, Waysted, in the mid-1980s, releasing several albums that showcased his songwriting abilities and guitar prowess. Waysted enjoyed moderate success, touring extensively and earning a dedicated fan base.
Chapman's involvement in the music industry continued in subsequent years, collaborating with various artists and bands, including Ghost Dance, Lone Star, and The McAuley Schenker Group. He also worked on solo projects, releasing albums such as "Fortunate Son" (1995) and "Naked Thunder" (1997).
Over the years, Paul Chapman's contributions to UFO have been recognized and appreciated by fans of the band. His tenure marked a transitional period for UFO, showcasing his talent as a guitarist and his ability to adapt to the band's established sound while injecting his own musical personality.
Paul Chapman's guitar playing has been characterized by its technical proficiency, melodic sensibility, and dynamic stage presence. Although he may not be as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his contributions to the rock music landscape, particularly during his time with UFO, have left a lasting impact on fans and musicians alike.
