Racey

The original line-up featured Richard Gower (born 1955, Hackney, London, England; vocals, keyboards, piano, guitar), Phil Fursdon (guitar, vocals), Pete Miller (bass, vocals) and Clive Wilson (drums, percussion, vocals). After early success in their local pub circuit, they came to the attention of Mickie Most.[1] Racey's first single, "Baby It's You", was penned by Smokie members Chris Norman and Pete Spencer, and released in 1978. Their second single, "Lay Your Love on Me", was the group's first hit single, peaking at No.3 in the UK Singles Chart in late 1978 through to early 1979.[1] Their third single, "Some Girls", was also written by Mike Chapman and reached No.2 in the UK charts.[1] ("Some Girls" was later recorded by Barry Manilow for his 1982 "Here Comes the Night" album.)

The only album they made with the original line-up was their 1979 debut Smash and Grab. The band's hits were either written and/or produced by Mike Chapman and Nicky Chinn.[1] The band parted company with Chinn and Chapman after the album was released and, although they continued to play and tour, they released only a few more singles, which did not match their previous successes.

The band formally split in 1985.[3]

In 1990, Racey reformed after Wilson and Fursdon were approached to play at a Fourth of July party.[3] Miller died of cancer on 6 May 2003.[2][3] In 1991, Richard Gower formed his own version of the group with Gary Combes, Steven Lawrence and Simon Ryland[4] Both groups are still active and performing. Several albums and CDs, with re-recordings of the original hits as well as new material, are available from both of the present-day versions of the group.

In August 2021, the band released "It's a Glorious Day".[5]

• Official website