Pete Burns

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Pete Burns

Peter Jozzeppi Burns (5 August 1959 – 23 October 2016) was an English singer, songwriter, and television personality. He was best known as the lead vocalist of the band Dead or Alive, which he founded in 1980. Burns was known for his distinctive voice, androgynous appearance, and flamboyant style.

Early Life

Pete Burns was born in Port Sunlight, Wirral Peninsula, Cheshire, England. He was the son of Francis Burns, a Liverpudlian of Irish descent, and Eva Burns, a German woman who had fled the Nazi regime. Burns had a difficult childhood, often facing bullying due to his unique appearance and background.

Career

Dead or Alive

In 1980, Burns formed the band Dead or Alive, which became known for its hit single "You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)" released in 1984. The song reached number one on the UK Singles Chart and became a global hit. The band's success continued with several other singles and albums, including "Lover Come Back to Me" and "Brand New Lover".

Solo Career

After the initial success of Dead or Alive, Burns pursued a solo career. He released several singles, including "Jack and Jill Party" and "Never Marry an Icon". Despite his solo efforts, Burns remained closely associated with Dead or Alive throughout his career.

Television Personality

In addition to his music career, Burns became a well-known television personality. He appeared on several reality TV shows, including Celebrity Big Brother in 2006, where he finished in fifth place. Burns was also a frequent guest on various talk shows and reality programs, often discussing his music, personal life, and numerous cosmetic surgeries.

Personal Life

Burns was openly bisexual and was married twice. His first marriage was to Lynne Corlett in 1980, which ended in divorce in 2006. He later married Michael Simpson in 2007, but the couple separated in 2008. Burns was known for his numerous cosmetic surgeries, which he often discussed publicly.

Death

Pete Burns died of a sudden cardiac arrest on 23 October 2016 at the age of 57. His death was widely mourned in the music and entertainment industry, with many paying tribute to his unique contributions to music and pop culture.

Legacy

Pete Burns left a lasting impact on the music industry and pop culture. His distinctive style and bold personality made him a memorable figure in the 1980s music scene and beyond. Dead or Alive's music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.

Discography

With Dead or Alive

• Sophisticated Boom Boom (1984)
• Youthquake (1985)
• Mad, Bad, and Dangerous to Know (1986)
• Nude (1988)
• Fan the Flame (Part 1) (1990)
• Nukleopatra (1995)
• Fragile (2000)

Solo

• Jack and Jill Party (2004)
• Never Marry an Icon (2010)

See Also

• Dead or Alive (band)
• You Spin Me Round (Like a Record)
• Celebrity Big Brother (British series 4)