Woodhouse was born in 1949 in Cheadle, Cheshire. He began his professional musical career in the early 1970s, performing in local folk clubs and festivals in England. He quickly gained recognition for his unique blend of traditional and contemporary folk music, which often featured elements of jazz, blues, and rock music.
One of the defining characteristics of Woodhouse's music is his use of innovative guitar techniques and tunings. He is known for his intricate fingerstyle guitar playing, which incorporates complex arrangements and melodic flourishes that add a distinctive layer to his songs. His guitar playing has drawn comparisons to folk and acoustic guitar legends such as Bert Jansch, Davey Graham, and Martin Simpson.
In addition to his guitar playing, Woodhouse is also a gifted singer and songwriter. His songs often explore themes of love, loss, social injustice, and the natural world. His lyrics are known for their poetic imagery, emotional depth, and subtle storytelling.
Woodhouse's debut album, "Tim Woodhouse" (1976), was widely praised by critics and fellow musicians. The album showcased his versatile talents as a singer, songwriter, and guitarist, and established him as a notable figure in the British folk music scene. He went on to release several more critically acclaimed albums, including "Green Shadows" (1977), "The Last Boat to Rossbeigh" (1980), and "The Rose and the Briar" (1983).
Woodhouse's influence on subsequent generations of folk musicians cannot be overstated. His innovative approach to folk music and his exceptional guitar playing techniques have inspired countless musicians, and his songs have been covered by artists around the world.
Despite his success and influence, Woodhouse chose to step away from the music industry in the 1980s. He became involved in ecological activism and sustainability projects and focused his time and energy on promoting environmental causes. He continued to perform and record music occasionally but did not release any more albums until "Return Journey" in 2008.
Tim Woodhouse remains an admired and respected figure in the folk music world. His contributions to the genre, both as a musician and an environmentalist, have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence musicians and audiences alike.