Didier Lockwood, a highly acclaimed and celebrated French violinist, was born on 11th February, 1956, marking the beginning of a life that would be filled with an unwavering passion for music. Unfortunately, his time on this earth came to a close on 18th February, 2018, leaving behind a legacy that would continue to inspire and influence future generations of musicians. Lockwood's remarkable musical journey commenced in the 1970s, when he joined the French rock band Magma, a move that would prove to be a pivotal moment in his career. As a member of Magma, Lockwood had the opportunity to showcase his innovative approach to the electric violin, which involved the strategic use of electric amplification and experimentation with a diverse range of sounds.
Noted violinist and leader, Lockwood, embarked on a remarkable musical journey, commencing with the release of his debut album, New World, in 1979. Throughout his illustrious career, he went on to record an impressive array of over 20 albums, showcasing his versatility and artistic range.
In 1994, Lockwood made the bold decision to relocate to New York City, where he spent the next two years honing his craft and producing two exceptional albums, New York Rendez Vous and Storyboard. These works demonstrated his ability to adapt to new environments and push the boundaries of his art.
Lockwood's artistic influences were impressively diverse, with the renowned violinist Jean-Luc Ponty playing a significant role in shaping his style. This was particularly evident after Lockwood was introduced to Ponty's groundbreaking album, King Kong: Jean-Luc Ponty Plays the Music of Frank Zappa, which left a lasting impression on his work.
Lockwood's profound admiration for Ponty's groundbreaking approach to the violin instrument led him to venture into uncharted sonic territories, ultimately culminating in his transition to the electric violin. This pioneering decision was significantly influenced by the remarkable French violinist Stéphane Grappelli, whose extraordinary musical prowess left an indelible mark on Lockwood's artistic evolution.
As a testament to the profound impact Grappelli had on his development as a musician, Lockwood released a tribute album in the year 2000, a poignant tribute to the maestro's enduring legacy. This poignant tribute serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting influence Grappelli's music had on Lockwood's artistic trajectory, a testament to the power of music to transcend generations and inspire new creative endeavors.
Lockwood's extraordinary existence and professional trajectory serve as a compelling exemplar of his unshakeable commitment to his artistry and his capacity to consistently challenge the conventional limits of the electric violin.
