Rufus Wainwright

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About Rufus Wainwright

Rufus Wainwright is a singer-songwriter, composer, and pianist. Born in 1973 to folk musicians Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, he was raised in a musical household and began playing piano at a young age.

Wainwright first earned global recognition with his self-titled debut album in 1998, which showcased his blend of pop, classical, and cabaret. However, his critical breakthrough came with follow-up albums ‘Want One’ (2003) and ‘Want Two’ (2004), featuring fan-favourite songs ‘Oh What a World’ and ‘The Art Teacher’.

Beyond his pop career, Wainwright has composed two operas, Prima Donna (2009) and Hadrian (2018), and recreated Judy Garland’s 1961 Carnegie Hall concert as a musical tribute.

Rufus Wainwright in a black suit sings or speaks into a microphone on stage with a conductor and an orchestra playing behind him.

What are Rufus Wainwright’s most popular songs?

Wainwright’s best-known songs include ‘Cigarettes and Chocolate Milk’, ‘Going to a Town’, ‘Hallelujah’ (cover), ‘Poses’, and ‘Dinner at Eight’.

Has Rufus Wainwright won any major awards?

Wainwright has won two Juno Awards, received multiple Grammy and Brit Award nominations, and was honoured with Canada’s Governor General’s Performing Arts Award for his contributions to music.

Has Rufus Wainwright worked on film or theatre projects?

Wainwright’s music has been featured in films like Shrek, The Aviator, and Brokeback Mountain. He has also worked in theatre, composing songs for Shakespeare plays and ballet productions.

Has Rufus Wainwright collaborated with other artists?

Wainwright has worked with legends such as Elton John, David Byrne, Joni Mitchell, Sting, Robbie Williams, and Mark Ronson. He has also performed duets with his sister, Martha Wainwright.