Introduction
Daniel "Dan" Hipgrave (born 5 August 1975, in Brighton, England) is a musician, writer and presenter. He is best known as the guitarist of the indie rock band Toploader.
Early life
Hipgrave studied psychiatric nursing at the University of Sussex, until he left in 1996 to devote his time to his band.
Music career
In April 1998, Toploader signed a six-album deal with S2 Records, a subsidiary of Sony Records. They went on to tour worldwide in their own right, and as a supporting act to Paul Weller, Robbie Williams and Bon Jovi. Toploader's debut album, Onka's Big Moka, released in 2000, sold over two million copies. The album featured various chart hits including their cover of "Dancing in the Moonlight" and "Achilles Heel", and "Only for a While". Toploader's second LP, Magic Hotel, was released in 2002 but, despite it entering the UK Albums Chart at number 3, the band were dropped by their label. The band split in 2003 stating the reason as 'personal differences'.
Other work
Hipgrave has turned his attention towards writing and television work, making a number of appearances in both media. In 2008 Hipgrave appeared as the resident travel expert on BBC2's Market Kitchen as well as reporting live from Radio 1's Big Weekend in Maidstone for BBC One.
He has written articles for The Guardian, The Daily Telegraph, The Independent, The Mail on Sunday and other publishing outlets.
Personal life
Hipgrave married TV presenter Gail Porter in 2001; they have one daughter, Honey, from the marriage. By 2004 they had separated and later divorced.
In August 2007, Hipgrave announced his engagement to television and radio presenter Lynsey Horn marrying her on 8 November 2008 at Langley Castle, Northumberland.