One of the true cult artists of the 1960s, Roy Harper (left) had already released four albums before Led Zeppelin eulogised him in their song, Hats Off To (Roy) Harper. There was plenty to doff the cap about - Harper had built up a strong underground following for his plaintive, electronically-treated folk- rock, and his reputation grew through such 1970s albums as Stormcock, Lifemask and Valentine.
Illness nearly ended his career - and his life - in 1972, but he recovered in time to perform a Valentine's Day concert at London's Rainbow Theatre, with such guests as Jimmy Page, Keith Moon and John Bonham. He also sang lead vocals on Pink Floyd's Have A Cigar, from the band's Wish You Were Here album, and supported the Floyd at their big concert in Knebworth. Sadly, Harper never really broke free from cult-dom - his last chart album was a 1985 collaboration with Jimmy Page - but his live performances can still knock a few socks off.
