Tom Longworth

Quick Facts

Summary

Tom Longworth is a British left-handed guitarist who has played with Robbie Williams since 2012. A long-standing live band member, he has also worked with Natalie Imbruglia and Charlotte Church, and is a co-founder of the rock band King H.E.R.D. He is known for his melodic, effects-driven guitar style.

Biography

Early life and musical beginnings

Longworth began playing guitar at the age of 11, initially learning on an acoustic instrument before acquiring his first electric guitar at 13. He grew up in Birmingham, where he became immersed in the local music scene during his teenage years.

His early influences included classic rock and pop artists such as The Beatles, Pink Floyd, Dire Straits, Eric Clapton and George Harrison, alongside later inspirations including Nirvana, Blur, Red Hot Chili Peppers and funk-influenced acid jazz.

Longworth is left-handed, a factor that has shaped both his playing and his equipment choices throughout his career.

You can’t just walk into a shop and pick up any guitar when you’re left-handedTom Longworth

Early bands and the Birmingham scene

During his late teens and early twenties, Longworth played in a number of original bands, most notably Alaska. The band gained traction on the Birmingham scene and later attracted interest from major labels.

In 2001, Alaska travelled to New York to showcase for Atlantic Records. During this period, drummer Karl Brazil joined the band, establishing a professional relationship that would later shape Longworth’s career.

Although the band ultimately disbanded, the experience introduced Longworth to the realities of the music industry, including label negotiations, management changes and international showcases.

Session work and touring

Following the end of Alaska, Longworth transitioned into session and touring work. He joined Natalie Imbruglia’s live band in 2007, remaining with her until 2010. Through this role, he became further embedded in the professional touring circuit.

He also worked with Charlotte Church and participated in a range of live and studio projects, often connected through musician networks rather than formal auditions.

Joining Robbie Williams

Longworth joined Robbie Williams’ band in 2012. His initial involvement came via an audition process organised by musical director Paul Beard and Karl Brazil. The audition took place in Los Angeles and culminated in a private performance at a high-profile event in Cancún.

The performance served as both an audition and a live test, with an audience that included prominent musicians and industry figures. Following the show, Longworth was invited to join Williams’ touring band.

I was literally thinking about giving up music… and then I got the callTom Longworth

Live work with Robbie Williams

Longworth’s first major shows with Robbie Williams included the 2012 ballroom concerts, followed by the Take the Crown arena and stadium tours. He later appeared on tours including Let Me Entertain You, The Heavy Entertainment Show, swing-era performances and the Las Vegas residency.

He has performed at major venues worldwide, including stadiums, festivals and televised events such as the 2018 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony in Russia.

Known for his expressive, melodic style, Longworth often incorporates slide guitar and atmospheric effects into Williams’ live arrangements.

Songwriting and recording

In addition to live performance, Longworth has contributed to songwriting and recording projects with Robbie Williams. He co-wrote Time for Change, which became the lead single from The Christmas Present.

The song originated from an idea developed during touring in South America and evolved into a full studio production.

Longworth has also played guitar on tracks released through the Under the Radar series, including Raver, Bully and Run It Wild.

King H.E.R.D.

Outside of his work with Williams, Longworth is a founding member of the rock band King H.E.R.D., alongside Karl Brazil and other Birmingham-based musicians. The band was formed during a period of reduced touring and developed its material collaboratively.

King H.E.R.D. released its debut album to positive reception, with Longworth contributing guitar, songwriting and production input. He continues to write material for subsequent releases.

Teaching and professional profile

Alongside performing, Longworth has worked in music education and is associated with BIMM, where he has contributed as a lecturer. His teaching draws on extensive experience in touring, session work and live performance.

He is also recognised for his interest in guitar tone and equipment, frequently discussing pedals, amplifiers and signal chains as part of his creative process.

Credits & Contributions (5)