The Hollies’ ALLAN CLARKE - One of the Biggest Voices in British Music History

Allan Clarke is a British musician celebrated for his role as the lead vocalist of the legendary rock band, The Hollies. With a career spanning decades, Clarke's distinctive tenor voice and songwriting prowess have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and roll.

Clarke co-founded The Hollies in the early 1960s with childhood friends Graham Nash, Eric Haydock, Tony Hicks, and Don Rathbone. Their harmonious blend and melodic pop-rock sound catapulted them to international stardom. Hits like "Bus Stop," "Carrie Anne," and "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" became anthems of the era, showcasing Clarke's emotive vocals and contributing to the band's enduring legacy.

As a songwriter, Clarke collaborated with Nash and Hicks to pen some of The Hollies' most iconic songs. His ability to craft timeless tunes solidified the band's chart-topping success and earned them a permanent place in the pantheon of rock music.

In 1971, Allan Clarke briefly embarked on a solo career, releasing albums such as "My Real Name Is 'Arold" and "Headroom." Despite the solo endeavor, Clarke rejoined The Hollies in 1973, and the band continued to produce hits, notably "The Air That I Breathe."

Beyond his musical achievements, Clarke's enigmatic stage presence and charisma made him a captivating performer. His influence transcends generations, and The Hollies' catalogue remains a testament to his enduring impact on the world of music.

Clarke's return to The Hollies in the '70s marked another chapter in their success, with a continued string of hits. His distinct vocal style, characterized by soulful nuances and emotional depth, remains a defining element of The Hollies' sound.

Allan Clarke's legacy extends beyond his contributions to The Hollies, encompassing solo ventures, songwriting brilliance, and a significant footprint in the evolution of rock music. His name is synonymous with harmony, melody, and the timeless resonance of classic rock—a testament to a remarkable career that has left an indelible mark on the global music landscape.

Allan has recently released a new album - Resurgence - fulfilling a long time dream to collaborate again with Graham Nash. 

The album comes after he, his wife and his daughter all battled with cancer and as a result, finds Allan unable to hit the high notes that he’s become so famous for.

Determined to continue doing what he loves, Allan has penned many of the tracks on this album so that he’s able to sing in a lower key. The result is simply stunning.

I am excited to have Allan Clarke in conversation in this episode, sharing stories from his incredible musical journey. I know you'll enjoy hearing his tales too.

If you'd like to know more about Allan, head for his website https://www.allan-clarke.co.uk/ and if you have any requests for future guests on A Breath of Fresh Air, please get in touch with me through my website https://www.abreathoffreshair.com.au