Born in Benwell, Newcastle, Hull worked as a nurse in a local mental hospital before becoming a founder-member of the well-known group Lindisfarne, seen by some commentators as focussing Geordie identity. Their first album was called 'Nicely Out of Tune' and contained such haunting songs as 'Lady Eleanor' which gave its name to the North Shields restaurant. Their second album 'Fog on the Tyne'. (1971) achieved classic status. After the progressive rock album 'Dingley Dell', the group split up, but later re-formed to go on tour and play an annual series of Christmas concerts at the Newcastle City Hall from 1976 onwards.
Alan Hull also issued solo albums like 'Piperdream' (1973). His early death deprived the North East of a singer, writer and political activist of great individuality. An Early Day Motion in the House of Commons read:

'This house notes with deep regret the sudden and tragic death of Alan Hull... notes that Alan not only brought great pleasure to millions of music lovers, but was a dedicated socialist who cared deeply for his fellow men; extends deepest sympathy to Alan's wife and daughters; their grief is shared by Tyneside... which has lost a great ambassador, a true Geordie and a good man.'