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Richard Paul Ashcroft, born on 11 September 1971, is an English musician, singer, and songwriter. He formed the alternative rock band the Verve in 1990 and served as the band's sole songwriter, lead singer, and rhythm guitarist throughout its existence. In 2000, Ashcroft began a solo career, releasing six albums that reached the top three in the UK charts, including Alone with Everybody, Keys to the World, and These People. His songwriting has been recognized with two Ivor Novello Awards from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors. The Verve's album Urban Hymns is among the best-selling albums in the UK. Ashcroft's work has influenced artists such as Oasis, Coldplay, and the Britpop and indie rock genres. Noel Gallagher of Oasis described Ashcroft as a "genius," and Chris Martin of Coldplay called him "the best singer in the world."