History of Paul Atkinson (guitarist) in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 22, 2025

Paul Atkinson was a British guitarist and record executive, famed as a founding member of the influential pop/rock band, The Zombies. His contributions to the band's signature sound helped shape the British Invasion era. Atkinson's musicianship and later his work in the music industry significantly impacted the music scene. He received posthumous recognition for his achievements when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.

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Full Timeline

March 1946: Paul Atkinson's Birth

In March 1946, Paul Ashley Warren Atkinson was born. He would later become a founding member of the pop/rock band The Zombies.

March 1946: Birth of Paul Atkinson

In March 1946, Paul Atkinson was born in Cuffley, Hertfordshire, to Stanley Atkinson, a stockbroker's accountant, and Clyde, a teacher.

1958: Formation of The Zombies

In 1958, Paul Atkinson met Rod Argent and Hugh Grundy at St Albans, and the three formed a band initially called the Mustangs, which was later changed to The Zombies. Colin Blunstone and Paul Arnold joined the new band in mid 1958, but Arnold soon left and was replaced by Chris White.

1964: Chart Success with Tell Her No

In 1964, The Zombies had another chart-topper with the song "Tell Her No".

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1965: First American Television Appearance on Hullabaloo

On January 12, 1965, The Zombies appeared on the first episode of the American television show "Hullabaloo".

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December 1967: The Zombies Disband

In December 1967, The Zombies disbanded, reportedly over management disagreements.

1968: Brief Stint as Computer Programmer

Following the disbandment of The Zombies in early 1968, Paul Atkinson briefly worked as a computer programmer before returning to the music industry.

1968: Release of Odessey and Oracle

In 1968, the album "Odessey and Oracle" was released, featuring the song "Time of the Season".

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1969: Joining Dick James Music

In 1969, Paul Atkinson joined Dick James Music as a talent scout, after initially managing unsuccessful bands.

1972: Joining CBS Records UK and Signing ABBA

In 1972, Paul Atkinson joined CBS Records UK as an A&R man and successfully signed the then-unknown Swedish group ABBA for £1,000 in advance.

1991: Bringing Grayson Hugh to MCA Records

In 1991, Paul Atkinson brought Grayson Hugh to MCA Records from RCA Records.

January 2004: Receiving the President's Merit Award

In January 2004, Paul Atkinson received the President's Merit Award from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences at a benefit concert at the House of Blues in Los Angeles. The Zombies reunited for the event.

April 2004: Paul Atkinson's Death

In April 2004, Paul Atkinson died. He was later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.

April 2004: Death of Paul Atkinson

On April 1, 2004, Paul Atkinson died at the age of 58 in a Santa Monica hospital due to liver and kidney disease. He had been suffering from cancer for some time, and had two liver transplants.