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Frank BlackAmerican indie rock legend
Date of Birth: 06.04.1965
Country:  USA |
Content:
Early Life and Influences
Charles Michael Kittredge Thompson IV, known as Black Francis and Frank Black, was born in Boston on April 6, 1965. His father owned a bar, leading to the family's relocation to Los Angeles. Francis' parents divorced while he was young, and his family joined the Pentecostal Church of God Assembly, which influenced his later music.
Influenced by the folk-rock music his parents played, Francis picked up a guitar at age 11 or 12. The family's numerous moves between Boston and Los Angeles exposed him to diverse musical influences.
The Pixies
After graduating high school in 1983, Francis attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he met Joey Santiago. In 1986, they formed The Pixies with Kim Deal and David Lovering. Inspired by Iggy Pop, Francis adopted the pseudonym Black Francis.
The Pixies gained attention through a demo called "Purple Tape" and signed with 4AD Records. Their 1988 debut album, "Surfer Rosa," was critically acclaimed in both the US and UK. Their subsequent albums, "Doolittle" (1989) and "Bossanova" (1990), also performed well.
Solo Career and Reunions
Francis disbanded The Pixies abruptly in 1991, adopting the name Frank Black. His solo debut, "Frank Black," was unsuccessful. He formed Frank Black and the Catholics in 1993, releasing several albums.
In 2004, The Pixies reunited for a tour and eventually recorded a new album in 2009. Francis has also recorded with his wife, Violet Clark, in the duo Grand Duchy.
Personal Life
Francis currently resides in Portland, Oregon. He is married to Violet Clark and has three children. He plans to release a solo album with Grand Duchy in 2009.
