Melvyn Duffy

Quick Facts

Melvyn Duffy
  • Name
    Melvyn Duffy
  • Role
    Multi Instrumentalist

    • Summary

    Melvyn Duffy is a British multi-instrumentalist known for his work with Robbie Williams from 2000 to 2003. A specialist in pedal steel and slide guitar, he has recorded with Joe Cocker, David Knopfler, and Elkie Brooks, and performs with Los Pacaminos. His career spans pop, rock, country, and folk collaborations.

    Biography

    Personal Life

    Melvyn Duffy is a British musician and session player known for his versatility across stringed instruments. He is not related to Stephen Duffy. He has been active in professional music since the 1990s. Duffy is accomplished on pedal steel, slide guitar, dobro, mandolin, Weissenborn, banjo, bass, and piano. He continues to live and work in the UK, performing and recording across multiple genres.

    The Robbie Williams Band

    Melvyn Duffy was a member of the Robbie Williams Live Band from 2000 until 2003. His role included pedal steel and slide guitar, contributing to Robbie's evolving sound during the Sing When You're Winning and Escapology eras. He performed at major concerts including the 2003 Knebworth shows and appeared in official live recordings and televised specials. His playing added texture and depth to Robbie's arrangements, particularly on tracks with country or Americana influences.

    Duffy was part of a lineup that included brass, rhythm, and vocal sections, and his contributions were featured in ensemble performances and select studio sessions. His tenure coincided with Robbie's transition into larger-scale productions and international touring.

    Other Projects and Appearances

    Outside of his work with Robbie Williams, Melvyn Duffy has recorded and toured with artists including Joe Cocker, David Knopfler, Zucchero, Chris Jagger, Sam Brown, KT Tunstall, Jimmy Nail, Leo Sayer, UB40, Elkie Brooks, and Eros Ramazzotti. He is a long-time member of Los Pacaminos, a Tex-Mex band led by Paul Young, and has performed with The Strawbs and The Blue Angel Orchestra.

    Since 2008, Duffy has been a full-time member of Elkie Brooks's band and contributed to Dave Cousins' solo album Secret Paths. He has also performed with Squeeze and First Aid Kit, and continues to work as a session musician across pop, rock, country, and folk genres. His career reflects a blend of technical skill, stylistic range, and long-term collaboration with UK and international artists.