Richard Coles, English pianist, saxophonist, and priest
Richard Keith Robert Coles, born on March 26, 1962, stands as a truly unique figure in contemporary British life, having seamlessly woven together careers that span the seemingly disparate worlds of music, journalism, radio presenting, and the Church of England priesthood. Today, he diligently serves his parish as the vicar of Finedon in Northamptonshire, yet his journey to the pulpit began far from traditional ecclesiastical settings, deep within the vibrant, often rebellious, music scene of the 1980s.
The Communards: A Soundtrack of the Eighties
Many first encountered Richard Coles as the multi-instrumentalist half of the immensely popular 1980s duo, The Communards, a band that became synonymous with catchy synth-pop and socially conscious lyrics. Partnering with the distinctive falsetto voice of Jimmy Somerville, The Communards carved out a significant niche, becoming an iconic voice of the era. Their energetic sound and engaging stage presence propelled them to remarkable chart success, most notably with three top ten hits. Their electrifying dance rendition of Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes' "Don't Leave Me This Way" wasn't merely a hit; it became a cultural phenomenon, soaring to the No. 1 spot and proudly claiming the title of the best-selling single of 1986. This track perfectly encapsulated the exuberant, yet often poignant, spirit of the mid-eighties, establishing The Communards as a pivotal group in British pop history and solidifying Coles's legacy as a successful musician.
A Multifaceted Media Personality and Public Servant
Beyond the pulsating beats of his musical past, Coles has cultivated a robust and engaging media presence. His articulate insights and genial demeanor make him a familiar and welcome guest across various radio and television programs, and his opinions frequently grace the pages of national newspapers, establishing him as a well-known journalist and radio presenter. Since March 2011, he has endeared himself to listeners as the cherished regular host of BBC Radio 4's "Saturday Live" programme, where he expertly navigates a range of topics with wit, warmth, and intellectual curiosity. His sharp mind and engaging personality also make him a popular regular contributor to esteemed panel shows such as "QI," "Would I Lie to You?", and "Have I Got News for You.", showcasing his versatility and broad appeal as a public figure.
Further underscoring his multifaceted talents, Coles is an accomplished author, having penned several books that delve into his life experiences and observations. His commitment to public service extends to his esteemed role as the Chancellor of the University of Northampton, where he contributes to the academic landscape. Additionally, he holds the honorary position of Chaplain to the Worshipful Company of Leathersellers and passionately supports community welfare as a patron for the social housing initiative, Greatwell Homes, based in Wellingborough. His life story is a testament to embracing diverse callings and making a meaningful impact across multiple spheres, from pop stardom to the Anglican priesthood.
Frequently Asked Questions About Richard Coles
- Who is Richard Coles?
- Richard Coles is a prominent English figure known for his varied career as a musician, journalist, radio presenter, author, and Church of England parish priest.
- What is Richard Coles famous for?
- He is widely recognized as the multi-instrumentalist from the 1980s band The Communards, his role as a BBC Radio 4 presenter on "Saturday Live", and his frequent appearances on popular television panel shows.
- What band was Richard Coles in?
- He was a key member of the hugely successful 1980s synth-pop duo, The Communards, where he partnered with vocalist Jimmy Somerville.
- What are some of The Communards' hit songs?
- Their biggest and most famous hit was the 1986 No. 1 single "Don't Leave Me This Way". They achieved several other top ten hits during their career.