Gary Barlow, English singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer

Gary Barlow, born on 20 January 1971, is a highly acclaimed English multifaceted talent, widely recognized as a singer, songwriter, record producer, actor, and television personality. He is most famously known as the charismatic lead singer of the iconic British pop group, Take That, a band that profoundly shaped the sound of 90s pop music and achieved remarkable success in their reunion era.

A Master Songwriter and Chart Dominator

Barlow stands as one of the United Kingdom's most prolific and successful songwriters, a testament to his enduring creativity and knack for crafting hit melodies. His impressive catalogue includes writing thirteen number-one singles, a remarkable achievement that underscores his influence on the British music charts. This includes ten chart-toppers penned for Take That, two impactful solo number-ones, and a collaborative triumph with Robbie Williams, the hit single "Candy." Beyond the pinnacle of number-one hits, his songwriting credits encompass an astounding twenty-four top-ten singles, solidifying his reputation as a consistent hitmaker.

Solo Success and Take That's Enduring Legacy

While his work with Take That is monumental, Gary Barlow has also forged a highly successful solo career. As a solo artist, he has achieved three number-one singles, six top-ten singles, and three number-one albums, demonstrating his ability to connect with audiences independently. His solo albums, such as "Open Road" (1997), "Twelve Months, Eleven Days" (1999), and later "Since I Saw You Last" (2013) and "Music Played by Humans" (2020), have showcased his versatility and artistic evolution. With Take That, Barlow's contributions have been integral to their phenomenal success, which includes seventeen top-five hits, twelve number-one singles, and eight number-one albums. The group, which achieved massive fame after forming in Manchester in 1990, experienced a highly successful reunion in the mid-2000s, proving their enduring appeal and Barlow's pivotal role in their continued chart domination.

From Stage to Screen: A Recognised Television Personality

Beyond his musical endeavors, Barlow has seamlessly transitioned into a prominent role as a talent show judge and television personality, offering his expertise and mentorship to aspiring artists. His notable judging stints include:

Accolades and Philanthropic Contributions

Gary Barlow's profound impact on British music has been widely recognized through numerous prestigious awards. He has received an impressive six Ivor Novello Awards from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors. These awards, highly regarded in the music industry, acknowledge excellence in British music writing and composing. Notably, he was honored with the award for Outstanding Services to British Music, a testament to his significant and sustained contributions to the nation's musical landscape. His commercial success is equally remarkable, with over 50 million records sold worldwide, underscoring his global reach and enduring popularity.

In recognition of his significant services to the entertainment industry and his tireless charitable efforts, Gary Barlow was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) at the 2012 Queen's Birthday Honours. This prestigious honour, bestowed by the British monarch, acknowledged his multifaceted contributions, particularly his instrumental role in organizing the star-studded Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert, which celebrated Queen Elizabeth II's 60-year reign and raised significant funds for various causes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gary Barlow

When was Gary Barlow born?
Gary Barlow was born on January 20, 1971.
What is Gary Barlow's primary role in Take That?
He is the lead singer and principal songwriter for the iconic British pop group Take That, contributing significantly to their chart-topping success.
How many number-one singles has Gary Barlow written?
He has written thirteen number-one singles, including ten for Take That, two as a solo artist, and one ("Candy") with Robbie Williams.
What significant awards has Gary Barlow received for his services to music?
Gary Barlow has been honored with six Ivor Novello Awards, including one for Outstanding Services to British Music. He also received an OBE in 2012 for his contributions to entertainment and charity.
Has Gary Barlow appeared on television as a judge?
Yes, he has served as a judge on prominent talent shows such as The X Factor UK (2011–2013), Let It Shine (2017), and Walk The Line (2021).