Welcome to Mohawk Studios
Spencer Horton Biography
Spencer started playing guitar at 14 years old, first taught by his father Ninky Horton (Way Back When), later having a few lessons with Mick Hansen.
First Band
Spencer formed a few early bands of several names but D.V.S was the first band to record live onto a 1/2″ reel to reel at the Grand Hotel in Felixstowe. He was playing a Pink HM Stratocaster into a small Fender Amp.
First Gig
At his sisters 18th birthday part, Spencer formed the first incarnation of Armada (1991) on drums was Martin Wegg and on bass was Kim Wiggins. This gig was recorded on video and will be available.
Gigs to Uni
Gigging with Armada and several other bands from 1991 to 1999. Other bands included The Minute Men, Red House, Chocolate. Armada Won several music competitons and played a lot of venues in east anglia. In 1999 Spencer went to the Academy of Contemporary Music and passed with merit in 2000. Following an audition at the ACM with Ronan Keatings Manager Mark Plunkett, Spencer did several TV performances with Ronan Keating.
Ronan Keeting (2000)
First playing with Ronan on Richard and Judy This Morning then performing on CDUK, along with a gig in the Millennium Dome for the hit single Life is a Rollercoaster
Lulu (2001)
Played on several TV shows with Lulu and the Lovers, Karl Brazil on drums, Malcom Moore on bass.
Featured on Eastenders special playing Run, Run Rudolph, Children in need Man Who Sold the World, there are video somewhere on the internet of these performances.
Sinead Quinn Singer/Songwriter (2002)
I loved having Spencer in my band. Hes a great player, has an awesome sound and vibe on stage. Good guy to have around and theres no mistaking that mohawk. Spencer did a tour of Ireland with Sinead.
Darius Campbell Singer/Songwriter (2003)
Dive In Tour took place in April and May 2003. Originally fifteen dates in May, the tour was expanded to include twenty three dates due to public demand.
Spencer Horton is a talented and gifted guitarist, and all-round great guy. He is reliable and professional, has a creative edge, and can hold his own against the best guitarists out there. I dont know what wed have done on tour without him!
Chesney Hawkes (2001-2004)
After performing with Lulu Spencer then auditioned for Chesney Hawkes and did several university tours of the UK.
“Leant 42 songs in 3 days then went out on tour for 2 years!!!
Was great fun giggin, touring and rehearsing with Ches, Jodie and Stuart.
Many many fond memories and last year (2019) did a Butlins gig with them which was fun.”
Mohawk (2006)
After being a session musician for several years Spencer then created the band Mohawk. On drums Andy Burlace and on bass Marty Prior. Bassist “Doogle” replaced Marty and Mohawk continued to make a name for themselves in the East Anglia Area. Performing at Christchurch park Fireworks display doing a James Bond themed set to several thousands of people, also performing at Ipswich Music in the Park with Harley Cotton on bass. Below is a few videos from this time.
Gregg Wright (2011?)
Spencer played drums with ex Michael Jackson guitarist Gregg Wright for a UK tour with Marty Prior on bass.
Gregg is an excellent vocalist & guitarist with his original albums being up there with the best blues albums.
Mohawk to present
Spencer is working on new material for Mohawk and producing several albums a year for publishers. Working with Rupert Matthews from Monkey Puzzle Studios in Woolpit and Also with Sonoton Music Publishing.
Testimonials
Gemma Pipe
I had a great experience at Mohawk Studios. I am a professional Musical Theatre performer who needed to record a vocal demo. I arrived with a selection of songs and 3 in which I knew I wanted to record. Spence instantly made me feel welcome and he was interested in what I needed to achieve. I was slightly nervous as I had never recorded in a studio before however after a few minutes I felt comfortable in the environment and Spencers encouragement made me feel very relaxed. The studio space and the impressive high quality equipment used is extremely professional and the session ran very efficiently. Spence worked to my needs and gave me very helpful advice through recording. After recording, Spence worked on my tracks and had them ready for me just a few hours later. I am extremely pleased with the outcome. The quality of the tracks and how efficiently they had been produced for me was very professional. I will definitely be returning to record in the future and would recommend Mohawk Studios to anyone who needs to lay down some vocals or wishes to have a go at recording. A brilliant experience which made my first time recording very enjoyable. Thank you very much, Gemma Pipe.
Ash Alexander (Producer/Singer song writer)
Having worked with Spencer, I can recommend him for his all round ability as a guitarist, live & in the studio as well as being a loud drummer. I have co-written with him and used his guitar playing services on productions. Hes very quick with ideas as well as interpreting direction. His interest & knowledge in recording, along with his sense of humour and uplifting spirit makes him a good guy to have on your side.