The Amazing Mr. Smith

b. Derek Smith, 1 April 1948, Croydon, Surrey, England. This humorous performer began playing folk clubs, accompanying himself on guitar. He then played with a series of folk groups during the 60s before joining Wild Oats in 1970. He compensated for his weak voice by singing silly songs and using elaborate props in his stage act, including performing with his head inside a birdcage. After dubbing himself the Amazing Mr. Smith, he secured wider bookings. Still playing folk clubs, he also performs at theatres, arts centres and on the alternative cabaret circuit. Smith has appeared on UK television’s Game For A Laugh and Chris Tarrant’sProve It, and released the videoThe Atmosphere Without The Smoke, in 1991. He remains a very popular and highly original club and festival act.