Art Wood

Early Life and Family Background

Art Wood, born Arthur Wood on 7 July 1937 in West Drayton, Middlesex, England, grew up in a creative and modest British household where music and visual art gradually became central to his identity. From an early age, he showed an unusual sensitivity toward rhythm and expression, often blending artistic curiosity with a natural attraction to sound.

He was the elder brother of Ronnie Wood, who later became internationally famous as the guitarist of the Rolling Stones. This family connection placed Art within one of Britain’s most notable musical lineages, although his own path developed independently in the early years.

Art studied at the Ealing School of Art, a respected institution that nurtured several influential British artists and musicians. It was here that his dual passion for art and music matured, shaping the direction of his creative life.

Musical Beginnings and Early Rhythm & Blues Career

Art Wood entered the music scene during the late 1950s, a time when British youth were increasingly inspired by American blues and early rock and roll. After completing his National Service, he formed a skiffle group, following the popular musical trend of the era.

However, skiffle only served as a starting point. Art quickly moved toward rhythm and blues, where he found a stronger emotional voice and performance identity. His early group, the Art Wood Combo, performed blues covers in London’s club circuit, helping him build a reputation as a powerful live vocalist.

During this period, he developed a raw, expressive singing style influenced by American blues artists, which became the foundation of his later success with The Artwoods.

Blues Incorporated and London Music Scene Breakthrough

In 1962, Art Wood briefly joined Alexis Korner’s Blues Incorporated, one of the most influential British blues groups of the time. This band played a central role in shaping the British blues explosion of the 1960s.

His time in the group placed him alongside musicians who would later become major figures in rock music, including Charlie Watts. Although his stay was short, it strengthened his position within London’s competitive club scene and expanded his musical network.

The Artwoods: Formation, Style, and Key Songs

In 1963, Art Wood formed his most significant band, The Artwoods, a group that became part of the rising British rhythm and blues movement. The band combined energetic live performance with a strong blues foundation, drawing heavily from American R&B while maintaining a distinctly British edge.

The lineup included exceptional musicians such as Jon Lord (later of Deep Purple fame) and drummer Keef Hartley, both of whom would go on to shape rock history in their own right.

Musical Style

The Artwoods were known for:

• Heavy rhythm and blues influence
• Raw, energetic live performances
• Organ-driven sound (thanks to Jon Lord)
• Blues covers mixed with original material

Notable Songs and Singles by The Artwoods

Although they did not achieve major commercial chart success, The Artwoods produced several notable recordings that remain respected in British R&B history:

• “Sweet Mary” (1964) – One of their most recognized singles, showcasing their blues-heavy sound
• “I Take What I Want” (1966) – A strong cover that highlighted their live performance energy
• “Oh My Love” (1965) – A soulful track reflecting their emotional blues style
• “If I Ever Get My Hands on You” (1964) – A rhythm-driven blues number
• “Keep Lookin’” (1966) – One of their later singles with a harder edge
• “Work, Work, Work” (1966) – A gritty performance piece typical of their club sound
• “Let the Sunshine In” (1966) – A blues reinterpretation with strong vocal delivery

Album

• Art Gallery (1966)
  Their only studio album, Art Gallery, captured the essence of their live club energy. While not a commercial hit, it is now considered a cult British R&B record and an important snapshot of the mid-1960s London blues scene.

Later Projects and Transition into Art

After The Artwoods disbanded in 1967, Art Wood continued exploring music briefly. In 1969, he joined the short-lived band Quiet Melon, alongside Ronnie Wood, Rod Stewart, and other musicians who would later become global rock stars.

Despite these collaborations, he gradually stepped away from full-time music performance and returned to visual arts. Working as a graphic designer, he focused on creative projects with his brother Ted Wood, balancing design work with occasional musical involvement.

Personal Life and Final Years

Art Wood lived a relatively private life compared to many musicians of his era. He was married twice and had a son named Simon. Despite stepping back from the spotlight, he remained closely connected to his family and maintained a strong bond with Ronnie Wood throughout his life.

He passed away on 3 November 2006 in London after battling prostate cancer.

Legacy and Influence

Art Wood’s influence is best understood within the early British rhythm and blues movement. While he did not achieve mainstream fame, his work with The Artwoods helped shape the foundation of the British blues-rock sound that later defined global rock music.

The inclusion of future legends like Jon Lord within his band further strengthens his historical importance. Today, The Artwoods are viewed as a cult group whose recordings remain essential listening for fans of early British R&B.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: What are Art Wood’s most popular songs?
His best-known recordings include “Sweet Mary,” “Oh My Love,” “I Take What I Want,” and “Keep Lookin’” with The Artwoods.

Q2: Was Art Wood successful in music charts?
No, The Artwoods did not achieve major chart success, but they gained strong respect in the British R&B club scene.

Q3: What was Art Wood’s most famous band?
The Artwoods, formed in 1963, was his most notable musical project.

Q4: Did Art Wood work with famous musicians?
Yes, he worked with Jon Lord, Keef Hartley, and briefly with Rod Stewart and Ronnie Wood in Quiet Melon.

Q5: What was his profession besides music?
He also worked as a graphic artist and designer.