Simply Red is a British soul and pop band formed in Manchester in 1985, fronted by singer and songwriter Mick Hucknall. Their music is a fusion of soul, pop, and rock influences that has garnered them a dedicated fan base worldwide. The band’s name was inspired by Mick Hucknall’s love for the color red and his hair color when the group was formed.

Mick Hucknall, born on June 8, 1960, in Manchester, had a passion for music from an early age. He began his musical journey by performing in local clubs and pubs before forming Simply Red. The original lineup of the band included Mick Hucknall, Tony Bowers on bass, Fritz McIntyre on keyboards, Tim Kellett on brass, Chris Joyce on drums, and Sylvan Richardson on guitar.

Simply Red gained international recognition with their debut album “Picture Book” in 1985, which achieved great success in the UK. Their breakthrough single “Holding Back the Years” topped the charts and became a signature song for the band. By infusing elements of soul, pop, and blues into their music, Simply Red carved out a unique sound that resonated with audiences.

The band’s sophomore album, “Men and Women” (1987), further solidified their success with hits like “The Right Thing” and “Infidelity.” Simply Red’s popularity continued to soar with subsequent releases, including “A New Flame” (1989), featuring the hit single “If You Don’t Know Me by Now.”

Simply Red’s chart-topping success extended into the 1990s with albums such as “Stars” (1991), which spawned multiple hit singles like “Stars” and “Something Got Me Started.” The album “Life” (1995) continued their winning streak with singles like “Fairground” and “Never Never Love.”

Throughout their career, Simply Red has maintained a consistent presence in the music industry, delivering soulful performances and emotive lyrics that resonate with fans of all ages. Mick Hucknall’s distinctive voice and the band’s dynamic sound have earned them critical acclaim and enduring popularity.

Awards and Achievements:
Simply Red has been honored with numerous awards throughout their career, including several BRIT Awards and a Grammy nomination. Their music has left a lasting impact on the pop and soul music landscape, cementing their status as one of the UK’s most successful bands.

Notable UK Hits:
1. “Holding Back the Years” (1985)
2. “If You Don’t Know Me by Now” (1989)
3. “Stars” (1991)
4. “Fairground” (1995)
5. “Sunrise” (2003)

Albums:
1. “Picture Book” (1985)
2. “Men and Women” (1987)
3. “A New Flame” (1989)
4. “Stars” (1991)
5. “Life” (1995)
6. “Blue” (1998)
7. “Love and the Russian Winter” (1999)
8. “Home” (2003)
9. “Simplified” (2005)
10. “Stay” (2007)
11. “Big Love” (2015)
12. “Blue Eyed Soul” (2019)

With a career spanning over three decades, Simply Red’s music continues to enchant audiences around the world. Their distinctive sound and heartfelt lyrics have made them a household name in the music industry, solidifying their legacy as one of the most iconic bands to emerge from the UK.