Chris Stainton — Rare Footage & Clips
Chris Stainton's six-decade-long career as a session musician has been a testament to his versatility and dedication to his craft. Born on March 22, 1944, in the United Kingdom, Stainton's journey began in the late 1960s with Joe Cocker, marking the beginning of an illustrious career that would see him collaborate with some of the most iconic musicians of all time.
A clip from DeepCutsArchive's extensive collection captures Stainton's early days with Cocker during a live performance at the Fillmore East in 1970. The footage shows Stainton's impressive keyboard skills as he seamlessly blends into the band's dynamic sound, highlighting his ability to adapt and complement the musical vision of his collaborators. This period was pivotal for both Cocker and Stainton, as they were part of a vibrant music scene that saw the emergence of psychedelic rock and blues-infused folk.
Stainton's tenure with Eric Clapton is another significant chapter in his career. His work on albums such as "No Reason to Cry" (1976) and "Backless" (1978) not only showcased his technical prowess but also demonstrated his ability to contribute to the creative process of a project. A clip from DeepCutsArchive's collection features Stainton performing with Clapton during a 1977 concert in New York, where he can be seen effortlessly switching between keyboards and bass.
In addition to his work with Cocker and Clapton, Stainton has also been an integral part of The Who's sound. His contributions to the band's music can be heard on albums such as "Who Are You" (1978) and "Face Dances" (1981). A clip from DeepCutsArchive shows Stainton performing with The Who during a 1979 concert at the Hammersmith Odeon in London, where he is seen playing keyboards alongside Pete Townshend.
Stainton's collaboration with Roger Waters on his solo album "Radio K.A.O.S." (1987) marked another significant milestone in his career. His work on this project not only showcased his ability to adapt to different musical styles but also highlighted his skill as a songwriter. A clip from DeepCutsArchive features Stainton performing with Waters during a 1987 concert at the Wembley Arena, where he is seen playing keyboards alongside the former Pink Floyd bassist.
The release of Tundra in 2014 marked a new chapter in Stainton's career, demonstrating his continued relevance and creativity as a musician. While this album may not have received the same level of attention as some of his earlier work, it is a testament to his dedication to his craft and willingness to explore new sounds.
Throughout his career, Chris Stainton has been an unsung hero of music history. His contributions to some of the most iconic albums and live performances of all time are often overlooked in favor of more prominent musicians. However, a closer examination of his work reveals a masterful musician who has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible on stage and in the studio.
Stainton's ability to blend into different musical contexts while still maintaining his unique voice as a musician is a testament to his skill and versatility. His collaborations with Cocker, Clapton, The Who, Waters, and Ferry have not only enriched their respective music but also left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
A clip from DeepCutsArchive's collection captures Stainton performing with Andy Fairweather Low during a 2011 concert at the Royal Albert Hall in London. This footage showcases his ability to adapt to different musical styles while still maintaining his unique voice as a musician. His work with Low on this project highlights his skill as a songwriter and his willingness to explore new sounds.
In conclusion, Chris Stainton's career is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music. Through his collaborations with some of the most iconic musicians of all time, he has left an indelible mark on the history of rock music.
Curated from public records and music databases.
