Mick Hucknall's musical journey began with his involvement in the punk band, the Frantic Elevators, which released four singles between 1979 and 1982. Unfortunately, none of these singles managed to chart, and the band subsequently disbanded. Hucknall then went on to form Simply Red in 1984, a venture that would prove to be significantly more successful.
The band's debut single, a cover of the Valentine Brothers' "Money's Too Tight (to Mention)", was released in 1985 and reached number 13 on the UK chart. However, the subsequent three singles, including a re-recording of "Holding Back the Years", which was originally a single by the Frantic Elevators, failed to chart within the top 40, leaving it uncertain whether Simply Red would achieve significant commercial success.
It was not until 1986 that "Holding Back the Years" received re-release, gained radio airplay, and climbed to the number 2 position on the UK chart, with a subsequent number one spot in the USA. This breakthrough single, along with many others, solidified Simply Red's reputation as a white soul act.
Despite their early struggles, Simply Red had to wait until 1995 for their first UK number one hit, "Fairground". Throughout his career, Hucknall has been an ardent supporter of the Labour Party, and his music has often reflected his political views. The band's 1992 hit "Your Mirror" was a scathing critique of the Conservative government, and Hucknall has also made appearances on Michael Parkinson's BBC chat show, lending his voice to various charity projects and events.
As a prominent figure in the music industry, Hucknall's commitment to social and political causes has remained unwavering, making him a respected and influential artist in the world of music.
