NIGEL GRAINGE

Ensign Records founder (1947-2017)

Nigel Grainge’s main reason for becoming an accounting clerk at the Phonogram record label in 1970 was the promise of free records. His obsession with music led to him joining the A&r department, where he signed thin lizzy, 10cc, Steve Miller and eddy Grant, before leaving to form ensign records in 1977. During his 18-year stint as label head, Grainge discovered key acts such as the boomtown rats, the Waterboys, World Party and Sinéad O’Connor. He later ran his own publishing company, Dizzy Heights.