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Biography:
This Anglo-Scottish band was formed in 1983 by Jimmy Somerville (born James Somerville, 22 June 1961, Glasgow, Scotland; vocals), Steve Bronski (b. 7 February 1960, Glasgow, Scotland; keyboards) and Larry Steinbachek (b. 6 May 1960, London, England; keyboards).
After establishing themselves in London's gay community, the trio was awarded a support slot for a Tina Turner show, and subsequently signed to London Records. Their memorable debut single, "Smalltown Boy" immediately drew attention to Somerville's arresting falsetto vocal, which became the hallmark of their sound.
The single climbed to number 3 in the UK charts and also fared well in Europe and in the US dance charts. The follow-up, "Why?", another Top 10 single, emphasized their debt to producer Giorgio Moroder, whose Euro disco sound they so admired.
The song was inspired by a paedophile friend of theirs, whose illegal sexual activities had forced him to flee the country. By the end of 1984, Somerville was already well-known as a tireless homosexual rights campaigner. The band's debut album, The Age Of Consent, emphasized their homosexual politics and met with a mixed reaction in the music press.
The summer of 1984 saw them supporting Elton John at Wembley, London, and a major UK tour followed that winter. Meanwhile, a third single, a sprightly cover version of George Gershwin's "It Ain't Necessarily So", scaled the charts.
Early the following year, Bronski Beat teamed up with Marc Almond for an extraordinary version of Donna Summer's "I Feel Love", interwoven with the refrains of "Love To Love You Baby" and "Johnny Remember Me". The single climbed into the UK Top 3 during April 1985, but at the end of that same month, Somerville left, citing disillusionment as a major factor.
He later resurfaced in the Communards, before relocating to San Francisco and launching a solo career. Bronski Beat found a replacement in John Jon (b. John Foster) and initially enjoyed some success. The catchy "Hit That Perfect Beat" returned them to the Top 3 in late 1985 and two further albums followed.
The impetus was gradually lost, however, although Bronski Beat carried on into the 90s with new vocalist Jonathan Hellyer.
