Nick Drake, born on June 19, 1948, in Rangoon, Burma (now Yangon, Myanmar), was an enigmatic figure in the world of music whose ethereal voice and guitar work resonated with profound emotional depth. Despite his relatively brief career, Drake's influence on the singer-songwriter genre is both significant and enduring.
Drake spent much of his early life in England after his family returned from Burma when he was a child. He demonstrated musical talent early on, learning the piano and later gravitating towards the guitar. Influenced by the burgeoning folk scene of the 1960s, he drew inspiration from the likes of Bob Dylan, Donovan, and Ray Davies, developing his unique style characterized by intricate guitar fingerpicking and introspective lyricism.
Drake's foray into music as a professional began while he was a student at the University of Cambridge, where he studied English literature. It was during this period that he met producer Joe Boyd, who was pivotal in helping Drake secure a contract with Island Records. Boyd recognized Drake's extraordinary talent and facilitated the release of his debut album, "Five Leaves Left," in 1969.
“I find music a world where I can express what lies beneath the surface.”
— Nick DrakeListen Now
Early Life
Nicholas Rodney Drake was born on June 19, 1948, in Yangon, Burma, where his father, Rodney Drake, was an engineer with the Bombay Burmah Trading Corporation. The family returned to England when Nick was just a child, settling in the comfortable surroundings of Tanworth-in-Arden, a quaint village in Warwickshire. This pastoral setting would later influence the serene and often melancholic quality of his music. Nick grew up in a supportive environment with his mother, Molly, who was an accomplished musician and songwriter in her own right. Her gentle, introspective songs and poetry exposed Nick to music’s emotional depth from a very young age.
Fun Facts
Nick Drake was largely unappreciated during his lifetime, with only a few of his albums achieving commercial success, but he has since become a cult icon and his music is celebrated around the world.
Drake's hauntingly beautiful songs often reflect his struggles with mental health, and he famously recorded his albums with little to no commercial pressure, allowing for creative freedom.
Despite his musical talent, Nick Drake was famously shy and preferred to stay out of the limelight, avoiding performances and interviews, which contributed to his elusive persona.
His song 'Pink Moon' was featured in a Volkswagen commercial decades after its release, leading to a resurgence of interest in his music and helping to introduce him to a new generation of listeners.
Nick Drake was a master of the guitar and developed his own unique tunings, which contributed to the distinct sound of his music and influenced countless artists after him.
Timeline
Born on June 19 in Rangoon, Burma
Family moved to England after his father's military service
Enrolled at the University of Bristol, where he began playing music
Released debut album 'Five Leaves Left'
Released second album 'Bryter Layter'
In Their Own Words
“I find music a world where I can express what lies beneath the surface.”
— Nick Drake
“The silence between the notes is as vital as the notes themselves.”
— Nick Drake
“In the shadows of the night, melodies reveal the truths we often hide from daylight.”
— Nick Drake
Legendary Moments
Nick Drake Release "Bryter Layter"
On this day in 1971, Nick Drake released the album "Bryter Layter".
Nick Drake Release "Pink Moon"
On this day in 1972, Nick Drake released the album "Pink Moon".
Essential Albums
View All
Five Leaves Left
1969
Bryter Layter
1971
Nick Drake
1971
Pink Moon
1972
Fruit Tree
1979
Heaven in a Wild Flower
1985
Time of No Reply
1986
Way to Blue
1994
Made to Love Magic
2004
A Treasury
2004
Family Tree
2007Tuckbox
2014Own a Piece of Nick Drake's Legacy
Original pressings, anniversary editions & reissues
Shop VinylEvery era of Nick Drake — box sets & anthologies
Shop Box SetsBiographies & deep dives into Nick Drake's life
Shop BooksVintage prints & reproduction art from Nick Drake's era
Shop PostersNick Drake apparel — tees, hoodies & accessories
Shop MerchHear Nick Drake the way it was meant to be heard
Explore TurntablesDon't own a record player?
Experience vinyl the way it was meant to be heard. We've curated the best turntables at every price point.
Related Artists
Fans of Nick Drake Also Love
FallenArtists participates in the Amazon Associates Program and other affiliate programs. We may earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.