Chris Welch (born 1941 or 1942) is an English music journalist, critic, and author who is best known for his work from the late 1960s as a reporter for Melody Maker, Musicians Only, and Kerrang!.
[1] He left school at 16 and became a messenger for a national daily newspaper in Fleet Street.
[1] In October 1964, after writing for a local newspaper, Welch became a reporter for Melody Maker at age 22.
He has written books on several rock music personalities, including Paul McCartney, the Who, Pink Floyd, Jimi Hendrix, Yes, Steve Winwood, Black Sabbath, John Bonham, Led Zeppelin, Peter Grant, Cream, Vivian Stanshall, and Genesis.
On 17 October 2012 Welch was presented with a BASCA Gold Badge Award in recognition of his unique contribution to music.