Births on January 17

Paul Young, English singer-songwriter and guitarist

Paul Antony Young, born on 17 January 1956, is a distinguished English singer, songwriter, and musician whose career has spanned several decades, captivating audiences with his distinctive voice and versatile musicality. Renowned for his unique blend of soul and pop, Young emerged as a prominent figure in the British music scene, achieving significant international acclaim.

Early Career and Rise to Stardom

Before his meteoric rise as a solo artist, Paul Young honed his craft as the charismatic frontman of various bands, demonstrating his diverse musical influences and performance capabilities. His journey began with groups like Kat Kool & the Kool Cats, followed by Streetband, which delved into a fusion of funk and R&B. He then fronted Q-Tips, a highly regarded soul and pop outfit that toured extensively and gained a reputation for their energetic live performances, laying the groundwork for his future success.

The 1980s marked a pivotal period for Young, as he transitioned into a solo career that quickly propelled him to superstardom, earning him the status of a teen idol. His ability to deliver deeply emotive performances, coupled with his smooth yet powerful vocals, resonated widely with a global audience.

The Era of Blue-Eyed Soul and Chart Dominance

Paul Young's solo career was defined by a series of immensely successful hit singles that showcased his remarkable talent and cemented his place in music history. His signature songs, including "Love of the Common People" (a cover originally by Nicky Thomas), "Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home)" (his first UK number-one single, originally by Marvin Gaye), "Come Back and Stay," "Every Time You Go Away" (a cover of Daryl Hall's composition), and "Everything Must Change," all achieved top 10 status on the UK Singles Chart. These tracks exemplified the "blue-eyed soul" genre, a term used to describe white artists who performed soul and R&B music with authentic passion and vocal prowess, a category in which Young, alongside peers like George Michael and Hall & Oates, became a definitive voice.

In 1983, the release of his debut album, No Parlez, instantly made Paul Young a household name. This seminal album became a commercial juggernaut, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart and achieving multi-platinum sales. It was followed by another UK number-one album, The Secret of Association in 1985, and later, the compilation album From Time to Time – The Singles Collection in 1991, also topped the UK charts, underscoring his consistent appeal.

Global Recognition and Iconic Performances

Paul Young's influence extended far beyond the UK shores. He became a key figure in the "Second British Invasion" of the US, a phenomenon where British musical acts achieved significant mainstream success in America during the 1980s. His powerful ballad, "Every Time You Go Away," became a monumental hit, soaring to number one on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1985, solidifying his international star power.

His immense popularity was further recognized at the 1985 Brit Awards, where he was honored with the prestigious award for Best British Male, celebrating his outstanding contributions to music. The song "Every Time You Go Away" also garnered the Best British Video award at the 1986 Brit Awards, acknowledging its visual impact and widespread appeal.

One of the most defining moments of Paul Young's career was his iconic appearance at Live Aid on 13 July 1985. Performing at the historic Wembley Stadium in London for the global charity concert aimed at alleviating famine in Ethiopia, Young showcased his enduring appeal and charitable spirit. He famously sang the opening lines of the Band Aid anthem "Do They Know It's Christmas?" – a track on which he lent his vocals for the original single release. His Live Aid set also included powerful renditions of his own hits, "Come Back and Stay" and "Every Time You Go Away," with a memorable guest appearance by acclaimed singer Alison Moyet, who joined him on stage to perform their duet, "That's The Way Love Is."

A Lasting Musical Legacy

Even after his peak chart success in the 1980s, Paul Young has maintained a vibrant and active career, continually exploring new musical avenues. Since the mid-1990s, he has notably performed with his acclaimed band Los Pacaminos. This group, specializing in Tex-Mex music, showcases Young's versatility and passion for diverse genres, allowing him to delve into a rich blend of country, blues, and traditional Mexican influences. This ongoing musical endeavor highlights his enduring love for performance and his commitment to evolving as an artist, ensuring his place as a cherished figure in British music.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paul Young

What genre of music is Paul Young known for?

Paul Young is primarily known for his "blue-eyed soul" sound, blending elements of pop, soul, and R&B. His later work with Los Pacaminos explores Tex-Mex music.

Which of Paul Young's albums reached number one in the UK?

Paul Young had three UK number-one albums: his debut, No Parlez (1983), The Secret of Association (1985), and the compilation album From Time to Time – The Singles Collection (1991).

Did Paul Young perform at Live Aid?

Yes, Paul Young performed at Live Aid in July 1985 at Wembley Stadium, where he sang "Do They Know It's Christmas?" (having sung the opening lines on the original single), "Come Back and Stay," and "Every Time You Go Away." He was also joined by Alison Moyet for "That's The Way Love Is."

What is Paul Young doing now?

Since the mid-1990s, Paul Young has regularly performed with his band Los Pacaminos, which specializes in Tex-Mex music. He also continues to tour as a solo artist.