Tony Hadley

Anthony Patrick Hadley was born on June 2, 1960, in Islington, London. He co-founded the new wave band Spandau Ballet in 1976 with Gary Kemp, Steve Norman, John Keeble, and Michael Ellison. As the lead singer, Hadley achieved international success in the 1980s with hits such as “True,” “Gold,” and “Through the Barricades.” The band also appeared at Live Aid in 1985. Hadley was noted for his expressive vocal range and suave stage presence. After Spandau Ballet disbanded in 1990, Hadley embarked on a solo career, releasing his first album, “The State of Play,” in 1992. He later formed his own record label, SlipStream Records, and continued to release solo material, including collaborations with various artists.

In 2003, Hadley won the ITV reality series “Reborn in the USA,” which led to a recording contract with Universal Music and the release of the album “True Ballads.” He continued performing extensively, including co-headlining tours with other 1980s artists like Peter Cox and Martin Fry. In 2006, he released “Passing Strangers,” a jazz-swing album. Hadley reunited with Spandau Ballet for a tour in 2009, but permanently departed in 2017. His commitment to charity work was recognized in 2019 when he was awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours for his services to Shooting Star Chase Children’s Hospice Care.

His career includes radio presenting roles with Virgin Radio and Absolute Radio, and appearances on television shows such as “I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here!” in 2015. More recently, Hadley released “Because of You” in 2022, followed by his 40th Anniversary Tour. His latest album, “The Mood I’m In,” was released in 2024. Hadley’s career has demonstrated consistent engagement with music and media, maintaining his presence as an artist while contributing to charitable causes.