Tony Capstick (1944–2003) was an English folk singer, comedian, broadcaster and songwriter, best known for celebrating the humour, music and traditions of Yorkshire. Born in Oldham, Lancashire, he became a popular figure on the British folk scene during the 1960s and 1970s, combining traditional songs with witty storytelling and an engaging stage presence.

Capstick enjoyed his greatest commercial success in 1981 when “The Sheffield Grinder”, recorded with the Carlton Main Frickley Colliery Band, reached No. 3 in the UK Singles Chart. The double A-side, “Capstick Comes Home”, also became one of his best-known recordings.

Alongside his performing career, Capstick was a familiar voice on BBC Radio Sheffield, where he presented folk music programmes and championed local musicians for more than three decades. His warmth, humour and deep knowledge of traditional music made him one of Yorkshire’s most respected folk entertainers.

Capstick died on 23 June 2003, aged 58, but remains fondly remembered for his recordings, broadcasting and enduring contribution to British folk music. He was far more than a one-hit wonder. Before “The Sheffield Grinder”, he was already well known on the British folk club circuit for mixing traditional songs with Yorkshire humour. His main recordings include:

Albums

His Round (1971, with Hedgehog Pie) – Traditional folk songs plus material by Bob Dylan and others.
Punch and Judy Man (1974) – A mix of comic songs and traditional ballads, including “Bonny Bunch of Roses” and “Van Diemen’s Land.”
Tony Capstick Does a Turn (1978) – Recorded live in a Barnsley pub, capturing his storytelling, audience banter and folk songs. Often regarded as one of his best albums.
Songs of Ewan MacColl (1978) – A collaborative album with Dick Gaughan and Dave Burland devoted to songs by Ewan MacColl.
There Was This Bloke – A comedy/folk collaboration with Mike Harding, Derek Brimstone and Bill Barclay.