THE ‘GODFATHER of UK Americana’ is coming to Wharfedale.

Iain Matthews was recruited as lead vocalist for folk-rock pioneers Fairport Convention in 1967 before embarking on a hugely successful and prolific career as a solo artist.

He also enjoyed successful spells with the groups Matthews Southern Comfort and Plainsong, scoring a number one hit single with the former for their cover version of the Joni Mitchell song Woodstock.

During the early 1980s Matthews turned towards the business side of music and was a rep for Island Records - but was persuaded by Robert Plant of Led Zeppelin to get back to making music.

He returned to the USA for more solo work and Plainsong records and during this period recorded an acclaimed version of Peter Gabriel’s Mercy Street, contributed to a Phil Ochs’s Tribute album and recorded and toured with Nanci Griffith.

In 2000 Matthews settled in the Netherlands and found a busy, happy life in Europe involving more touring of the UK and the continent.

He has also issue further, well-received collaborative recordings including a tribute album to English singer-songwriter Sandy Denny who was, from 1968 to 1969, also the lead singer for Fairport Convention.

Matthews’ critically acclaimed memoir Thro’ My Eyes was written in collaboration with the author, broadcaster and storyteller Ian Clayton.

The pair are taking to the road to bring the book to life to audiences around the country with a new music and words show.

The show, which comes to Otley Courthouse on Sunday, October 6 features stories from the book interspersed with live songs from Iain Matthews.

It also follows the story of Matthews’ life, from a Scunthorpe childhood when he was obsessed with football and music to thrusting himself into the heart of Carnaby Street in the Swinging Sixties.

A Courthouse spokeswoman said audiences can look forward to a special evening.

She said: “The show will be a highly entertaining and intimate occasion, rich in stories and wonderful live music, presenting the story of an artistic life through the eyes of one of our most enduring singer-songwriters.”

The Otley performance begins at 8pm and tickets cost £14.

They can be booked by visiting www.otleycourthouse.org.uk, calling (01943) 467466 or popping into the Courthouse on Courthouse Street, Otley.