Reaching from the inside, Peter Brian Gabriel (1950-) was born on this day in London, England and has touched the hearts of many with exquisite lyrics and music.

Inspired by the music of the Beatles, he co-founded the progressive Rock and Roll group Genesis. In 1975, Gabriel went solo to create even more innovative songs of astonishing brilliance.

"Music has always been a therapy for me," he explained. "In the English way of life, beneath the restraint, calmness, and politeness, there's a seething animal waiting to get out."

In 1986, Gabriel released the multi-platinum album, So, with the revolutionary MTV favorite Sledgehammer. The video used stop motion and claymation techniques to capture the song's R&B horn riffs and passionate rhythm.

"I take dreams very seriously," he said about his creative process. "I think everyone should."

Always seeking to widen the frontiers of music, Gabriel has been acclaimed for his inaugurated and promotion of the World of Music Arts and Dance (WOMAD), a celebration of culture and music from around the world. Since its debut, the organization has brought the world closer by presenting over 90 events in 20 different countries.

"Music is one of the ways that can combat racism and some of the other divisions between the First and Third Worlds," said the remarkable artist.

More ROCK Quotations | In Your Eyes

"I want to touch the light, the heat I see in your eyes."