Foundation honours Beverley Knight long-term collaborator Paul Reid

A charitable foundation has been launched in memory of a Wolverhampton man who was soul music legend Beverley Knight's musical director.

Paul Reid worked with Knight for more than 25 years, also performing as her guitarist, and died on Christmas Day 2020 aged 54.

His widow, Pauline, and his son, Liam, have created the Paul Reid Foundation, which will help aspiring musicians and performers. It was launched on Saturday at the Park Regis Hotel, in Birmingham, with Knight among those performing.

"My life changed for the better the day I met Paul. He bought so much joy," the Wolverhampton-born singer said.

"He had been a part of my life for so long that I feel as though I had known him my whole life... his calm demeanour, his leadership qualities and his faith meant we were instant friends.

"He cared about the young people in the West Midlands who struggled to access opportunities to play and to learn studio and stage technique."

Through its programmes, the Paul Reid Foundation will offer music scholarships, mentorship opportunities with established musicians and creative professionals, and access to local music programmes and community resources.

"Twenty-five years is a lifetime to work with anyone in music. It is testament to who he was that we worked together right up until the time he was called home," said Knight, who is also an ambassador for the foundation.

"While he is no longer here, I want to help to fulfil his dream and his desire to help lives.

"With support, the Paul Reid Foundation can be a beacon of hope for talented young musicians in an area often overlooked in the country."

Pauline Reid said the foundation was established to honour her late husband's life, legacy, and passion, and was designed to open doors.

"Created with a mission to remove barriers to musical development, the Paul Reid Foundation will provide access to music education, mentorship, and creative opportunities for individuals of all ages and backgrounds," she said.

"By drawing on relationships with respected industry professionals, educators, and cultural partners, the foundation seeks to ensure that passion - not circumstance - defines a person's ability to participate in and contribute to the art of music.

"Paul believed deeply in the power of creativity to transform lives. This foundation continues that belief by giving people the tools, support, and encouragement they need to grow."

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