Alex Harvey
Alexander James Harvey (5 February 1935 – 4 February 1982) was a Scottish rock and blues musician, renowned for his dynamic stage presence and contributions to the glam rock era of the 1970s as the frontman of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band (SAHB). Born in the working-class district of Kinning Park in Glasgow, Scotland, Harvey's musical journey began in the 1950s with skiffle groups and later evolved into a career spanning nearly three decades.
Harvey's early career was marked by his leadership of Alex Harvey's Big Soul Band from 1958 to 1965, during which he performed blues and rock and roll across the UK and Germany. He briefly pursued a solo career before joining the London stage production of the musical "Hair" in 1967, where he played in the pit band and recorded the live album "Hair Rave Up."
In 1972, Harvey formed the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, combining his theatrical flair with a younger group, Tear Gas. The band became known for its theatrical live performances and released several albums, including a hit cover of Tom Jones' "Delilah." Despite personal tragedy, including the death of his brother Leslie Harvey, Alex continued to pour his energy into the band.
Harvey's influence extended beyond his own performances, as he played a role in the formation of the band Stone the Crows. His career was tragically cut short when he died of a heart attack in 1982, just one day before his 47th birthday. Harvey's legacy endures through his contributions to rock music and his memorable live performances.