Errol Ainsworth Glenstor Brown, known professionally as Errol Brown, was born Lester Errol Brown on November 12, 1943, in Kingston, Jamaica. He moved to Britain at the age of 11, joining his mother who had relocated to London. Brown's early life was marked by the separation of his parents, with his mother, Edna, working various jobs to support the family.

Brown's musical career began in 1969 when he recorded a version of John Lennon's "Give Peace a Chance" with a group initially named "The Hot Chocolate Band." The song was released with Lennon's approval, and the band later became known simply as Hot Chocolate. Under the production of Mickie Most, Hot Chocolate became a prominent soul and funk band, with Brown as the charismatic frontman known for his distinctive bald head and unique voice. The band achieved consistent success, charting in the UK singles chart every year from 1970 to 1984 with hits like "You Sexy Thing," "It Started With a Kiss," and "Every 1's a Winner."

In 1985, Brown left Hot Chocolate to focus on his family but returned to music as a solo artist, achieving club success with the single "Body Rocking" in 1987. He continued to perform and tour, including a notable performance at the wedding reception of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981.

Brown was recognized for his contributions to music with an MBE in 2003 and an Ivor Novello Award in 2004. He retired from performing after a farewell tour in 2009.

Errol Brown passed away from liver cancer on May 6, 2015, at his home in The Bahamas. He is remembered as a significant figure in British pop music, with a legacy that includes a string of hits that have become timeless classics.