Cockney Rebel

Were formed in the early 1970s by singer-songwriter Steve Harley. Here's an overview based on available information:

Formation and Early Success:

Formation: Cockney Rebel was formed in 1972 in London by Steve Harley, who was previously involved in the folk scene and journalism. The original lineup included Harley, Jean-Paul Crocker (fiddle/mandolin), Stuart Elliott (drums), Paul Jeffreys (bass), and Nick Jones (guitar), later replaced by Pete Newnham.

First Gig: One of their first major performances was supporting the Jeff Beck Group at the Roundhouse in London in 1973.

Debut Album: Their first album, "The Human Menagerie," was released in 1973. Although it wasn't a commercial success, it garnered critical acclaim, especially in Europe. The single "Sebastian" from this album was a hit in Europe but didn't chart in the UK.

Second Album: "The Psychomodo" followed in 1974, which included hits like "Judy Teen" and "Mr. Soft." This album reached No. 8 on the UK Albums Chart.

Band Changes and Major Hit:

Lineup Changes: After internal disagreements, particularly around creative control and earnings, the original band members, except for drummer Stuart Elliott, left after the release of "The Psychomodo." Harley then reformed the band under the name Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel.

Biggest Hit: The re-formed band's album "The Best Years of Our Lives" (1975) included their biggest hit, "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)." This song became a UK Number One hit, selling over a million copies globally. It's noted for its catchy tune and Harley's distinctive vocal style, though the lyrics were actually a jab at the former band members who left.

Later Career and Legacy:

Subsequent Albums: Albums like "Timeless Flight" and "Love's a Prima Donna" followed, but they didn't replicate the success of "Make Me Smile." The band covered "Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles in 1976, which was a minor hit.

Solo Endeavors and Reformation: After the band's initial dissolution in the late 1970s, Harley pursued a solo career with mixed success but continued to perform and record under the Cockney Rebel name from the late 1990s onward. This included new albums and extensive touring.

Influence and Recognition: Cockney Rebel is often cited for its influence on later punk and new wave artists due to Harley's unique vocal style and the band's innovative approach to rock music. Despite not being as widely remembered as some contemporaries, their music has been covered numerous times, indicating their impact.

Recent Developments: Steve Harley passed away in March 2024 at the age of 73 after battling cancer. His death was marked by tributes from fans and fellow musicians on platforms like X, highlighting his contributions to music and his charismatic stage presence.

Cockney Rebel's legacy is one of creative songwriting, distinctive performances, and a significant hit in "Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me)," which continues to be celebrated and covered by various artists.