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East 17 were a pop boy band that started in 1991 by Tony Mortimer, Brian Harvey, John Hendy, and Terry Coldwell. The band was named after the postcode of their hometown, Walthamstow, in East London1 East 17 had 18 top-20 singles and four top-10 albums on the UK charts, and sold over 18 million records worldwide1 Their style blended pop, hip hop, and rap, and contrasted with the clean-cut image of their rivals, Take That. East 17 were known for their ‘bad boy’ image, which often caused controversy and scandal in the media.
Origins and Early Career
East 17 began when Tony Mortimer, a singer and songwriter, was offered a record deal by London Records, on the condition that he formed a group. Mortimer recruited his friends, John Hendy, Terry Coldwell, and Brian Harvey, who was originally meant to be a backup singer and dancer, but became the lead vocalist due to his talent1 Mortimer wrote most of the group’s songs, which often featured rap verses by him and melodic choruses by Harvey1
The group released their debut single, “House of Love”, in 1992, which reached number 10 on the UK Singles Chart and was certified gold by the BPI (British Phonographic Industry)1 The song was a catchy and upbeat dance-pop tune, with lyrics that promoted peace and unity. The group followed this with their second single, “Gold”, which peaked at number 28 on the UK Singles Chart1 The song was a slower and more romantic ballad, with a rap bridge by Mortimer.
The group released their first album, Walthamstow, in 1993, which topped the UK Albums Chart and was certified double platinum by the BPI1 The album featured the singles “Deep”, “It’s Alright”, and “Slow It Down”, as well as a cover of “West End Girls” by Pet Shop Boys. The album showcased the group’s diverse and versatile sound, ranging from dance-pop, to R&B, to new jack swing. The album also received positive reviews from critics, who praised the group’s originality and energy.
Subsequent Albums and Success
East 17 continued their success with their second album, Steam, in 1994, which reached number two on the UK Albums Chart and was certified triple platinum by the BPI1 The album featured the singles “Steam”, “Around the World”, “Let It Rain”, and “Stay Another Day”. The latter was the group’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and becoming the Christmas number one in 19941 The song was a heartfelt and emotional ballad, dedicated to Mortimer’s brother, who had committed suicide. The song was also the group’s only top 10 hit in the US, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot 1001
The group released their third album, Up All Night, in 1995, which reached number two on the UK Albums Chart and was certified platinum by the BPI1 The album featured the singles “Do U Still?”, “Thunder”, “Someone to Love”, and “If You Ever”, a duet with Gabrielle. The album was more mature and sophisticated, with influences from soul, funk, and gospel. The album also received critical acclaim, with some reviewers calling it the group’s best work.
Controversy and Breakup
In 1997, the group faced a major controversy, when Harvey made comments in a radio interview that appeared to condone the use of the drug ecstasy2 The comments sparked outrage in the press and the public, and led to the group being dropped by their record label and losing several endorsement deals2 Harvey was also sacked from the group by Mortimer, who later left the group as well1
The group reformed in 1998, under the name E-17, with a new member, Blair Dreelan1 The group released their fourth album, Resurrection, in 1998, which reached number 43 on the UK Albums Chart and was certified silver by the BPI1 The album featured the singles “Each Time” and “Betcha Can’t Wait”. The album was more influenced by contemporary R&B and hip hop, and had a darker and edgier tone. The album received mixed reviews from critics, who felt that the group had lost their original charm and appeal.
The group disbanded in 1999, after poor sales and lack of interest from the public1
Reunion and Current Status
The group reunited in 2006, with the original lineup of Mortimer, Harvey, Hendy, and Coldwell1 The group released a new single, “I Can’t Get You Off My Mind (Crazy)”, which reached number 67 on the UK Singles Chart1 The group also performed at several festivals and events, such as Glastonbury and V Festival1
The group released a new album, Dark Light, in 2012, which was only available online1 The album featured the singles “Secret of My Life” and “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You”. The album was more influenced by rock and indie music, and had a more experimental and alternative sound. The album received positive feedback from fans, who appreciated the group’s new direction and creativity.
The group split again in 2013, after Harvey and Mortimer left the group due to personal and creative differences1 The group reformed in 2014, with Coldwell as the only original member, and new members Robbie Craig and Joe Livermore1 The group released a new single, “I’m Here for You”, in 2014, which reached number 91 on the UK Singles Chart1 The group also performed at several venues and events, such as Butlins and Pride festivals1
The group is currently working on a new album, which is expected to be released in 2022. The group has also announced dates for their UK tour, which will start in April 2022. The group has also expressed interest in performing in other parts of the world, such as Europe, Asia, and Australia. The group has said that they are happy and excited to be back on stage and to share their music with their fans.
