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Photo: Disclosure/EMI / Pipoca Moderna
Singer Steve Harley, leader of the band Cockney Rebels and icon of British rock from the 1970s, passed away at the age of 73 at his home in Suffolk, England, this Sunday morning (17/3), after being diagnosed with cancer.
The singer’s daughter, Greta, said in a statement that her father will be “desperately 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 essential elements. Passion, kindness, generosity. And so much more, in abundance. We know that People all over the world will miss him greatly,” he wrote in a statement.
Success in the 1970s
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 stood out for using 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 5th place in 1974, and “Make Me Smile (Come Up And See Me)”, which topped the charts in 1975.
Despite their success, the band faced internal tensions. The remaining members felt they were treated as supporting musicians rather than equals, which led to the original lineup’s dissolution in mid-decade. After that, Steve Harley began performing and recording as Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, making it clear who the main star was.
The fight against cancer
During 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 a medical procedure.
Back in December, the singer said it was painful to end his tour while behind the scenes he was fighting cancer. “My oncologist is satisfied with the effects of the treatment so far. But the fight continues. And luckily the damn intruder isn’t affecting 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, also in England, with his wife Dorothy. The artist leaves two children and four grandchildren.
