Keith Julian Strickland is an American multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter, composer, and one of the founding members of The B-52s. He was born in Athens, Georgia. Originally the band's drummer, Strickland switched to guitar after the death of guitarist Ricky Wilson in 1985. Strickland also plays keyboards and bass guitar on many of The B-52s recordings, and has occasionally provided backing vocals. Strickland composes the music for The B-52s. He said of the process: "Ricky and I used to write the music together, but now I write the individual instrument parts and arrange the instrumental compositions myself. I'm trying to convey a feeling when I compose. I think of my instrumentals as soundscapes - the chord progressions, rhythms, harmonics and musical direction are used to evoke various sonic atmospheres or moods." Strickland came out as gay in 1992. On December 13, 2012, Strickland retired from touring for the B52s.
| Birth name: | Keith Julian Strickland |
| Born: | October 26, 1953 |
| Origin: | Athens, Georgia, United States |
| Genres: | New wave, rock & roll, alternative rock, punk rock, pop rock |
| Occupation(s): | Musician |
| Instruments: | Guitar, drums, percussion, keyboards, bass, vocals |
| Years active: | 1976–present |
| Associated acts: | The B-52's XTC |
| IMDb: | Keith Strickland's IMDb |
About Keith Strickland
Multi-instrumentalist who was one of the founding members of the American new wave band The B-52's. With The B-52's, he is best known for his work as lead guitarist as well as having had played keyboards for the band.
Before Fame
He joined The B-52's as a drummer initially but switched to guitar after a band member passed away in 1985.
Achievement
He was interviewed in the 2008 documentary A Life in the Death of Joe Meek.
Family Life
He is from Athens, GA.
Associations
Both he and Fred Schneider were members of The B-52's
