Steve Hillage: wins “Visionary” Award at the Progressive Music Awards 2013

Steve Hillage, the celebrated progressive rock guitarist, singer/songwriter, and producer, was awarded the “Visionary” Award at the Progressive Music Awards 2013 at Kew Gardens, West London, on Tuesday 3rd September. The award was presented to Hillage by author/actor/comedian Bill Oddie (The Goodies).

The Visionary Award is about the spirit of independence and for those who make their own niche in a progressive direction. From the psychedelic anthems from GONG to the futuristic dance rhythms of the ambient techno duo SYSTEM 7, Steve Hillage is one of the most unique guitarists the world has ever seen. Experimental and groundbreaking throughout his career, the Canterbury-affiliated icon is still much sampled and admired today. 

Hillage continues to push the envelope with new project ROVO and SYSTEM 7 - the perfect synergetic between techno and Japan’s leading prog rock band ROVO, whose collaborative new album “Phoenix Rising” is released on Monday 23rd September.  They will perform two special concerts at London’s Shepherd’s Bush Empire and Manchester Ritz in March 2014.

Not many people know that Steve was hugely instrumental in suggesting to and persuading Michael Eavis at Glastonbury Festival to add the dance stage in 1995. Received enthusiastically by the audience from day one, this signalled a sea change in the direction of music.

Team Rock’s Prog Magazine Radio Show will host a 2-hour awards special at 6pm on Sunday 8th September.  Prog Magazine online will host photos, interviews, and videos of the event. 

Comments