Neil James Innes (born 9 December 1944) is an English writer, comedian and musician. He collaborated with Monty Python and played in the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band and The Rutles. Innes was born in Danbury, Essex. He spent much of his childhood with his parents and older brother Iain in post-war Germany during his Scottish father's military assignment as a warrant officer. He took piano lessons from age 7 to 14 and taught himself to play guitar.

His parents were supportive of their sons' interests. His father showed some artistic ability as well; he frequently drew and painted.