Pip Williams

Pip Williams, (born October 7, 1947) is a record producer and guitarist, best known for producing albums for Status Quo and The Moody Blues.

Born in Hillingon, Middlesex, Williams became inspired to play the guitar after listening to records by The Shadows and Buddy Holly. He started his musical career as guitarist for The Fantastics and Jimmy James and the Vagabonds. Progressing from performer to session player in the early 1970's under the patronage of Sweet producer Phil Wainman, he became one of the most in-demand session guitarists of the era, playing on the early Sweet records, and on The Walker Brother's hit No Regrets.

He moved into production in the late 1970's; his work for Graham Bonnett attracted the attention of Status Quo, who hired him to produce their album Rockin' All Over The World, the title track later becoming one of the best known rock anthems of all time. He would produce a further 8 albums for the group, the last one being 1996's Don't Stop. His production has been often criticised for 'softening' Quo's sound, however it should be noted that under his production, they released some of their best selling singles and albums. His second best known work is for The Moody Blues albums Long Distance Voyager and The Present, the former being a United States album chart-topper. Other collaborators include Shirley Bassey, Richard O'Brien and Uriah Heep.

Some of his most creative work has come out of his ability as an arranger. From the sublime string arrangements for the Moody Blues and Colin Blunstone to the near parody oriental ostinato patterns on Carl Douglas' "Kung Fu Fighting", his concern has always been to adorn and illuminate the artists' work, rather than to create a recognisable Pip Williams style. His most recent arrangements can be found on Nightwish's 2005 album Once. He also has recorded, produced and mixed a live reunion album for the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band.

Pip was for many years Chairman of the Music Producer's Guild, resigning due to pressure of work in 2005. He is currently a course leader teaching record production at Ealing College, TVU. He has two children, Samantha (b. 1971) and Joe (b. 1984).