David Essex: A Beginner's Guide

Singer, songwriter, and actor who has had a significant impact on the entertainment industry since the 1970s. Here's an overview of his career:

Early Life:

Born: July 23, 1947, in Plaistow, London, England, as David Albert Cook.

Background: His father was an East End docker, and his mother was a self-taught pianist with Irish Traveller heritage.

Musical Career:

Early Career: Essex began his musical journey in the 1960s with bands like 'David Essex and the Mood Indigo.' He released several singles that didn't initially break through.

Breakthrough: His big break came with the self-penned hit "Rock On" in 1973, which became an international success, selling over a million copies and earning a Grammy nomination. This song was distinctive for its use of a drum machine, which was innovative at the time.

1970s Success: Throughout the decade, Essex enjoyed considerable chart success in the UK with hits including "Gonna Make You a Star" (1974) and "Hold Me Close" (1975), both reaching No. 1. He had a total of 19 Top 40 singles in the UK by 1994.

Albums: Notable albums from this period include "David Essex" (1974), "All the Fun of the Fair" (1975), and "Gold & Ivory" (1977). His albums often mixed rock, pop, and theatrical elements, reflecting his dual career in music and acting.

Acting Career:

Theater: Essex's acting career kicked off with his role as Jesus in the London production of the musical "Godspell" in 1971. He later played Che in the original production of "Evita" by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, with his performance of "Oh What a Circus" becoming a hit.

Film: He starred in films like "That'll Be the Day" (1973) and its sequel "Stardust" (1974), which were semi-autobiographical tales of a young musician. Other notable films include "Silver Dream Racer" (1980).

Television: Essex has appeared in various TV roles, including a stint on the British soap opera "EastEnders" as Eddie Moon in 2011.

Later Career:

Music and Tours: Essex has continued to record music and tour. He announced a UK tour for August and September 2024, showcasing his enduring appeal.

Other Projects: He has also written music for films, like "Traveller" (2013), in which he also co-starred. Essex's involvement in theatre extends to writing and producing his own shows like "All the Fun of the Fair."

Personal Life:

Family: Essex has been married three times. His marriages have resulted in five children. His third marriage was to Susan Hallam-Wright in 2010, with whom he has a son, Sonny.

Honours: In 1999, Essex was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his charitable services, particularly with Voluntary Service Overseas.

Legacy:

Cultural Impact: Essex's music, particularly from the 1970s, has left a lasting mark, with "Rock On" being one of the defining songs of that era. His acting also contributed to his status as a multifaceted entertainer.

Continued Influence: His work in both music and acting has influenced subsequent generations of performers, blending the lines between these arts in a way that was quite innovative for his time.

David Essex's career showcases a blend of musical innovation, theatrical flair, and a charismatic public persona, making him a significant figure in British entertainment history.