David Ogilvy, the Scottish American singer-songwriter and composer, was born in London in 1958 and grew up between London and Scotland, with significant periods spent in the USA.
After leaving university, he embarked on the vibrant London club scene of the early '80s, founding and DJing the acclaimed 'Soul Furnace.' This iconic night in Soho showcased rare '50s R'n'B and early soul, establishing Ogilvy as a tastemaker in the music scene.
Transitioning to songwriting and session work, Ogilvy played mandolin, pedal steel, dobro, guitar, and piano. Securing a publishing deal with Warner Chappell, he founded his own studio, Western Studios, in Westbourne Park. Collaborating with diverse artists like Eg and Alice, Curiosity Killed the Cat, and Peter Andre, Ogilvy's musical journey also included working with Cilla Black on her final studio recording.
In addition to performing with a range of artists, including Lucinda Williams, Buddy Miller, and Rufus Wainwright, Ogilvy released his debut solo album, 'Like It Is,' in 2003, receiving rave reviews for its fusion of Scottish folk tradition, Americana, and jazz influences. Subsequent albums, 'Mockingbird' (2005) and 'Heaven and Earth' (2008), further developed these musical strains.
Beyond his solo career, Ogilvy produced and co-wrote Christina Kulukundis' self-titled album in 2005. Notable for his film scoring, he contributed to projects such as the controversial documentary 'The Toughest Sheriff in America,' two documentaries by Hannah Rothschild for the BBC's Storyville series, and the art-house film adaptation of Edward St Aubyn's Booker-nominated novel 'Mother's Milk.' His songs have been featured in Hollywood films like 'The Flock' and Gaby Dellal's 'Angel's Crest.'
In 2013, Ogilvy initiated The Live Salon, a platform for acoustic music and spoken word, reminiscent of 19th-century musical salons. The eclectic gathering of musicians often includes writers and poets like John Stammers, Alan Jenkins, and Cressida Connolly.
In September 2022, Ogilvy completed his fourth album, 'A Scottish American Songbook,' featuring 14 songs inspired by his heritage and life spent between New York and the Scottish highlands.