Richey Edwards
Richard James Edwards (22 December 1967 – disappeared 1 February 1995), also known as Richey James or Richey Manic, was a Welsh musician who was the lyricist and rhythm guitarist of the alternative rock band Manic Street Preachers. He was known for his dark, politicised and intellectual songwriting which, combined with an enigmatic and eloquent character, has assured him cult status. He has been cited as a leading lyricist of his generation, leading the Cool Cymru movement.
Richey Edwards | |
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Edwards in Japan, circa 1991 | |
Born | Richard James Edwards 22 December 1967 Blackwood, Wales |
Disappeared | 1 February 1995 (aged 27) Cardiff, Wales |
Status | Missing for 29 years and 12 days Declared dead in absentia 24 November 2008 (aged 40) |
Nationality | Welsh |
Other names | Richey James Richey Manic |
Alma mater | Swansea University |
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Musical career | |
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Years active | 1989–1995 |
Formerly of | Manic Street Preachers |
Edwards disappeared on 1 February 1995. On 24 November 2008, he was declared presumed dead "on or since" 1 February 1995. The ninth Manic Street Preachers album, Journal for Plague Lovers, released on 18 May 2009, is composed entirely of songs with lyrics left by Edwards. As of 2005, the remaining members of Manic Street Preachers were still paying 25% royalties into an account in his name.