Paolo Giovanni Nutini secured a significant position in the UK music scene following the 2006 release of his debut studio album, These Streets. Born in Paisley in 1987, the Scottish singer-songwriter transitioned from working in his family’s fish and chip shop to achieving multiple number one albums on the UK charts and earning various industry award nominations.
Early Career and Development
Before his breakthrough, Nutini attended St Andrews Academy and the PACE Youth Theatre. He gained foundational experience working as a roadie and selling merchandise for the band Speedway. His time as a studio hand at Glasgow’s Park Lane Studio allowed him to begin recording demos alongside drummer Jim Duguid. After moving to London at seventeen, he performed regularly at The Bedford pub and secured opening slots for established acts, including The Rolling Stones, Amy Winehouse, and KT Tunstall.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Debut and Initial Success
Signed to Atlantic Records in 2005, Nutini released his first album, These Streets, in July 2006. Produced by Ken Nelson, the record peaked at number three on the UK Albums Chart and was later certified quintuple platinum. Notable singles from this period included 'Last Request' and 'Jenny Don't Be Hasty'. During 2006 and 2007, he maintained a busy touring schedule, appearing at major events such as the Glastonbury Festival and the Ahmet Ertegun Tribute Concert.
Chart-Topping Releases
Nutini achieved his first number one album on the UK Albums Chart with the 2009 release of Sunny Side Up. The album, which blends various genres including folk and soul, was also certified quintuple platinum. His third studio album, Caustic Love, followed in 2014, debuting at the top of the UK charts and earning a platinum certification. In July 2022, he expanded his discography with the release of his fourth studio album, Last Night in the Bittersweet.
Fast facts
- Born: 9 January 1987, Paisley
- Nationality: United Kingdom
- Education: St Andrews Academy
- Debut Album: These Streets (2006)
- Occupations: Singer-songwriter, musician, guitarist
- Notable Awards: Ivor Novello Award nomination
Questions readers ask
How many number one albums has Paolo Nutini released?
He has achieved three number one albums on the UK Albums Chart: Sunny Side Up (2009), Caustic Love (2014), and Last Night in the Bittersweet (2022).
What was his initial career path before music?
He was expected to join his father in the family fish and chip shop business before pursuing a career in the music industry.
Achievements
- Instruments: guitar and voice
- Genres: pop music, blues and rock music
