Biography
Born on 1 April 1948 in Croydon, Surrey, England, Derek Smith launched his career as a humorous performer by taking the stage at folk clubs while strumming guitar for accompaniment. During the 1960s he performed with multiple folk ensembles, then became a member of Wild Oats in 1970. To offset limitations in his vocal ability he specialized in comic numbers and incorporated elaborate stage props, among them a signature routine in which he placed his head inside a birdcage. After adopting the stage name the Amazing Mr. Smith he obtained engagements beyond his initial circuit. Although he continues to appear in folk clubs, he also plays theatres, arts centres and the alternative cabaret scene. Smith has been featured on the UK television programmes Game For A Laugh and Chris Tarrant’s Prove It, and in 1991 he issued the video The Atmosphere Without The Smoke. He endures as a widely appreciated and distinctly inventive presence at clubs and festivals.
Albums
