Steve Harley, leader of the Cockney Rebels band, has died at the age of 73

The singer found success during the 1970s British glam rock era with the hits “Judy Teen” and “Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)”.

Singer Steve Harley, leader of the band Cockney Rebels and icon of British rock of the 70s, died at the age of 73 at his home in Suffolk, England, this Sunday morning (17/3), after he been diagnosed with cancer.

The singer’s daughter, Greta, said in a statement that her father “will be greatly missed” by his fans around the world. “We are devastated to announce that our wonderful father passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side. However you knew him, his heart exuded only the essentials. Passion, kindness, generosity. And so much more, in abundance. We know he will be greatly missed by people around the world,” he wrote in a statement.

Success in the 70s

Cockney Rebel were a British glam rock band who rose to prominence in the early 1970s. The group was formed in London in 1972 by singer and guitarist Steve Harley, violinist Jean-Paul Crocker, drummer Stuart Elliott, bassist Paul Jeffreys and guitarist Nick Jones. Their music spanned a variety of styles, but was primarily influenced by Roxy Music and The Kinks. As was common in the glam era, the band was notable for its use of makeup (even glitter eyeshadow) and extravagant hairstyles during performances.

Over the years, the band has had five albums in the UK charts, which have spawned 12 most played singles. His biggest hits were the songs “Judy Teen”, which reached #5 in 1974, and “Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)”, which reached the top of the charts in 1975.

Despite their success, the band faced internal tensions. The remaining members felt they were treated as support musicians rather than equals, which led to the dissolution of the original lineup mid-decade. Subsequently, Steve Harley began performing and recording as Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, making it clear who the main star was.

The fight against cancer

During the Cockney Rebels’ 50th anniversary celebration in 2023, the musician went on an acoustic tour, naming the new lineup the Steve Harley Acoustic Band. In October, however, the group informed the public that several shows would be canceled while Steve recovered from medical surgery.

In December, the singer said it was painful to end his tour while he was battling cancer behind the scenes. “My oncologist is happy with the effects of the treatment so far. But the fight continues. And luckily that damn intruder doesn’t affect my voice. I sing and play almost every night,” he said at the time.

Born in London, Steve spent the last years of his life in the Suffolk region of England with his wife Dorothy. The artist leaves behind two children and four grandchildren.

Source: Terra

Earl

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.