East 17 – a name synonymous with the grittier, more rebellious side of 90s British pop, carved out a unique niche in an era dominated by polished boy bands. Hailing from Walthamstow, East London, this quartet, originally comprising Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey, John Hendy, and Terry Coldwell, burst onto the scene in the early 90s and quickly became a phenomenon. Their blend of pop, R&B, and hip-hop influences, coupled with a distinct “bad boy” image, set them apart from their contemporaries, making them a significant force in UK music history.

The Genesis of a Pop Sensation

The story of East 17 began in 1991 when songwriter Tony Mortimer secured a record deal with London Records. The catch? He needed to assemble a group. Mortimer recruited Brian Harvey, known for his distinctive vocals and charismatic stage presence, along with dancers John Hendy and Terry Coldwell. The name “East 17” was a nod to their Walthamstow postcode, instantly grounding them in their urban roots and lending an air of authenticity to their image.

Their debut album, “Walthamstow,” released in 1992, immediately resonated with audiences. Tracks like “House of Love” and “Deep” showcased their innovative sound, blending infectious dance beats with rap verses and soulful melodies. Unlike the squeaky-clean image cultivated by some rival groups, East 17 embraced a more streetwise aesthetic, with shaved heads and tattoos, which only added to their appeal and helped them stand out in a crowded pop landscape.

Chart Domination and Defining Hits

The mid-90s saw East 17 reach the pinnacle of their success. Their second album, “Steam” (1994), solidified their place as a major pop act, producing their only UK number-one single, the iconic “Stay Another Day.” This melancholic ballad, a departure from their usual upbeat dance tracks, became the Christmas number one in 1994, cementing its place as a timeless festive classic. The song’s enduring popularity continues to this day, featuring prominently on festive playlists and often being a topic of discussion around Christmas number one charts.

Beyond “Stay Another Day,” East 17 delivered a string of other memorable hits, including “It’s Alright,” which found significant international success, particularly in Australia where it topped the charts for seven consecutive weeks. Their music was characterised by catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and an undeniable energy that translated effortlessly to live performances. Collaborations, such as “If You Ever” with Gabrielle, further expanded their appeal and demonstrated their versatility.

Controversies and Challenges

The journey of East 17 wasn’t without its turbulences. The raw edge that made them unique also contributed to some of their most public challenges. In January 1997, lead singer Brian Harvey became embroiled in a major controversy after making comments about taking ecstasy, claiming it “can make you a better person.” This highly publicised incident caused significant media outcry, even leading to discussions in the House of Commons, and ultimately resulted in Harvey’s dismissal from the group.

This event marked a turning point for the band. Tony Mortimer, the primary songwriter and creative force, subsequently left due to creative differences. The band attempted to continue, even briefly renaming themselves E-17, but the original dynamic was irrevocably altered. Brian Harvey’s post-East 17 life has also been subject to ongoing media attention, including a severe accident in 2005 and public discussions about his financial struggles and mental health, often appearing in viral social media clips. These personal battles have kept his name, and by extension, the band’s, in the public consciousness, albeit often through a lens of hardship.

Evolutions and Reunions

Despite the initial split, the lure of East 17’s enduring popularity led to several reunion attempts over the years. The original lineup briefly reunited for a Channel 4 series, “Bring Back…East 17,” in 2006, reigniting fan hopes. Subsequent reunions and lineup changes have seen various configurations of the band perform, with Terry Coldwell remaining the only constant member throughout their history.

Today, East 17 continues to perform, often with a lineup including Terry Coldwell, Robbie Craig, and Joe Livermore. They actively tour, playing to nostalgic audiences eager to relive the 90s pop era. Their official website and social media channels provide updates on their tours and recent activities, demonstrating that the demand for their distinctive sound persists. While their chart-topping days may be largely behind them, their live shows are a testament to the lasting affection fans hold for their music.

The Enduring Impact and Legacy

East 17’s impact on British pop culture is undeniable. They demonstrated that boy bands didn’t have to be universally wholesome; they could possess an edge and still achieve massive commercial success. Their music, a fusion of genres, broadened the scope of what was considered “pop” in the 90s. They were often contrasted with the more polished Take That, and for a period, East 17’s “cooler” and “streetwise” image resonated deeply with a significant segment of the population.

Their sales figures are impressive, with millions of records sold worldwide, and “Stay Another Day” remains a perennial favourite. Beyond the numbers, East 17 left a cultural imprint, influencing fashion, dance, and a generation’s musical tastes. Discussions on platforms like Reddit often see fans debating their place in 90s pop hierarchy, acknowledging their unique contribution and the fierce loyalty they commanded.

Recent trends on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Meta (Facebook, Instagram) regarding East 17 often revolve around nostalgia. Fans share clips of their old music videos, discuss their favourite hits, and reminisce about the 90s music scene. Brian Harvey’s occasional viral videos regarding his personal life also generate significant discussion, keeping the band’s name in the trending topics. While not necessarily about new music from the original lineup, these discussions highlight the enduring relevance and cultural memory of East 17. The upcoming BBC2 documentary “Boybands Forever”, which features East 17, is also generating renewed interest and discussion about the band’s journey and individual members’ paths after fame.

FAQs

Who were the original members of East 17?

The original and most famous lineup of East 17 consisted of Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey, John Hendy, and Terry Coldwell.

What is East 17’s biggest hit?

East 17’s biggest and most well-known hit is undoubtedly “Stay Another Day,” which became the UK Christmas number one in 1994.

What is the meaning behind “Stay Another Day”?

“Stay Another Day” was written by Tony Mortimer and has a poignant backstory. It was inspired by the suicide of his brother, Ollie. While the song is often interpreted as a romantic ballad, Mortimer intended it to be an ambiguous message about wishing for one more day with a loved one who has been lost.

Why did Brian Harvey leave East 17?

Brian Harvey was controversially sacked from East 17 in 1997 after making comments in a radio interview that appeared to condone the use of ecstasy, claiming he had taken 12 pills in one night. This caused a significant public outcry and led to his departure.

Have East 17 reunited?

Yes, East 17 has had several reunions with various lineups over the years. The original four members briefly reunited in 2006 for a Channel 4 documentary. While the lineup has changed, Terry Coldwell has been a constant member, and the band continues to perform and tour today, often with Robbie Craig and Joe Livermore.

What was East 17’s “bad boy” image about?

East 17 cultivated a “bad boy” image that set them apart from other clean-cut boy bands of the 90s, like Take That. This included a more urban, streetwise aesthetic, with shaved heads, tattoos, and a grittier sound that blended pop with hip-hop and R&B influences. This image appealed to a different segment of the youth market and contributed to their unique identity.

Are East 17 still performing?

Yes, East 17 continues to perform live. The current lineup primarily features Terry Coldwell, Robbie Craig, and Joe Livermore, playing their classic hits to nostalgic audiences around the UK and beyond.

Final Thought

East 17 carved out a significant chapter in the annals of British pop music. They were more than just a boy band; they were a cultural phenomenon that defied expectations and brought a raw, authentic energy to the pop charts. Despite the controversies and lineup changes, their music continues to resonate, a testament to the enduring power of their distinctive sound and the indelible mark they left on a generation. Their legacy is one of pop rebellion, unforgettable anthems, and a reminder that true artistry can be found even in the most commercial of genres.

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