Kiki Dee

Kiki Dee is a renowned British singer and songwriter, best known for her powerful and soulful voice, as well as her collaborations with famous artists such as Elton John, Bernie Taupin, and Catherine Howe. Born as Pauline Matthews in Little Horton, Bradford, England, she began her music career in the 1960s, performing in local bands and singing in London clubs, including the famous Marquee Club. Her early influences included Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield, and Martha and the Vandellas, which shaped her unique sound and style. She was also inspired by the British Invasion and the Motown sound, which was popularized by artists such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Stevie Wonder.

Early Life and Career

Kiki Dee's early life was marked by a strong passion for music, which was encouraged by her parents, who exposed her to a wide range of genres, including jazz, blues, and soul music. She attended St. Bede's Grammar School in Bradford and began performing in local bands, including The Johnny Nash Band and The Small Faces. Her big break came when she was discovered by Fontana Records and released her debut single, "Early Night", in 1963, which was followed by her first album, Kiki Dee, in 1968. She was also influenced by the folk rock movement, which was led by artists such as Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and James Taylor.

Music Career

Kiki Dee's music career spanned several decades and genres, from pop music to rock music and soul music. She released several successful albums, including "I'm Kiki Dee" in 1970, "Loving and Free" in 1973, and "Kiki Dee" in 1977, which featured the hit single Don't Go Breaking My Heart, a duet with Elton John. She also performed at various music festivals, including the Isle of Wight Festival and the Glastonbury Festival, and toured with famous artists such as The Who, The Kinks, and The Beach Boys. Her music was also influenced by the psychedelic rock movement, which was popularized by artists such as Pink Floyd, The Doors, and Jefferson Airplane.

Collaborations and Notable Works

Kiki Dee's collaborations with other artists were a significant part of her career, including her work with Elton John on the hit single Don't Go Breaking My Heart, which reached number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1976. She also collaborated with Bernie Taupin on several songs, including "Loving and Free" and Kiki Dee. Her notable works include the album "Almost in Love" in 1981, which featured the hit single "Star", and the album "Angel Eyes" in 1987, which was produced by Albert Hammond and featured the hit single Perfect Timing. She also worked with other famous producers, such as Giorgio Moroder and Nile Rodgers, and was influenced by the disco and funk movements, which were popularized by artists such as Chic, Sylvester, and Earth, Wind & Fire.

Discography

Kiki Dee's discography includes several successful albums, such as Kiki Dee in 1968, "I'm Kiki Dee" in 1970, Loving and Free in 1973, and Kiki Dee in 1977. She also released several singles, including Don't Go Breaking My Heart in 1976, "Star" in 1981, and Perfect Timing in 1987. Her music was released on various labels, including Fontana Records, Tamla Motown, and Rocket Records, and she was also signed to EMI Records and Arista Records. Her discography also includes several compilation albums, such as "The Best of Kiki Dee" and Kiki Dee: The Collection.

Personal Life

Kiki Dee's personal life has been marked by a long-term relationship with Davey Johnstone, a guitarist and songwriter who has worked with Elton John and other famous artists. She has also been involved in various charitable activities, including supporting the Royal Academy of Music and the Prince's Trust. She has lived in several places, including London, Los Angeles, and Nashville, and has been influenced by the music scenes in these cities, which have been shaped by artists such as Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson.

Awards and Legacy

Kiki Dee's contributions to music have been recognized with several awards and nominations, including a Brit Award nomination for Best British Female Artist in 1977. She has also been awarded a Gold Badge Award from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors and has been recognized by the Music Producers Guild. Her legacy as a singer and songwriter continues to inspire new generations of musicians, including Adele, Amy Winehouse, and Leona Lewis, who have all been influenced by her unique sound and style. She has also been named as an influence by other famous artists, such as Stevie Nicks and Sheryl Crow, and has been recognized by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Category:British singers