Mike Rutherford

Michael John Cloete Crawford Rutherford, born on October 2, 1950, is a prominent English musician recognized as a guitarist, bassist, and songwriter. He played a pivotal role in the formation of the legendary rock band Genesis in 1967, remaining one of its two constant members alongside keyboardist Tony Banks.

Rutherford started his journey with Genesis as a bass guitarist and backing vocalist, while also taking on rhythm guitar duties, often showcasing his talent on the twelve-string guitar alongside various lead guitarists, including Anthony Phillips and Steve Hackett. After Hackett's exit in 1977, Rutherford's versatility shone through as he stepped up as the lead guitarist on Genesis's albums, starting with the 1978 release, …And Then There Were Three.... Throughout his tenure, he emerged as a key songwriter, crafting lyrics for numerous Genesis classics like "Follow You Follow Me," "Turn It On Again," "Land of Confusion," and "Throwing It All Away." His contributions to the music industry were recognized with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of Genesis in 2010.

Beyond his influential work with Genesis, Rutherford ventured into solo projects during the early 1980s and founded Mike + the Mechanics in 1985. This group achieved considerable success, earning Rutherford an Ivor Novello Award for the hit single "The Living Years" in 1988, alongside two Grammy Awards, solidifying his status in the music world.