Feargal Sharkey

Feargal Sharkey

Feargal Sharkey was born on August 13th, 1958

Full Name: Seán Fearerghal Sharkey
Nationality: Northern Irish
Occupation: Singer-songwriter
Genre: Pop and rock
Notable Bands: D-A-D, The Undertones
Hit Singles: Teenage Kicks, Jimmy Jimmy
Collaborations: Nigel Coxon, Damian ONeill
Influences: Punk rock and new wave

Lead vocalist of The Undertones, known for punk-infused hits like "Teenage Kicks" and a successful solo music career.

Written by: Victor Malone Victor Malone

Feargal Sharkey: The Punk Icon Turned Music Industry Champion

Feargal Sharkey is a name synonymous with the punk rock movement of the 1970s and 1980s, best known as the lead vocalist of the influential Northern Irish band The Undertones. With hits like "Teenage Kicks" and "Here Comes The Summer", Sharkey's powerful voice and energetic stage presence helped define the sound of a generation.

Early Life and Career

Born on August 13, 1958, in Derry, Northern Ireland, Sharkey joined The Undertones in 1975, shortly after the band's formation. During his time with the band, they released several UK hits, including "My Perfect Cousin" and "Wednesday Week", before disbanding in 1983 due to musical differences.

Solo Career and The Assembly

Before launching his solo career, Sharkey collaborated with Vince Clarke, formerly of Depeche Mode and Yazoo, to form the one-off group The Assembly. Their single "Never Never" reached No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart in 1983. Sharkey's solo debut single, "Listen to Your Father", a collaboration with Madness member Cathal Smyth, was released in 1984 and reached No. 23 on the UK chart.

Chart-Topping Success

Sharkey's solo career took off in 1985 with the release of "A Good Heart", which topped the charts in the UK, Australia, Belgium, Ireland, and the Netherlands. The song's success marked a significant departure from The Undertones' punk sound, showcasing Sharkey's ability to adapt and evolve as an artist.

Industry Champion and Philanthropist

In the 1990s, Sharkey shifted his focus to supporting the UK's commercial music industry, earning several awards and honors for his work. An avid fly fisherman, Sharkey has also campaigned against the pollution of British rivers, particularly chalk streams. He is the Chairman of the Amwell Magna Fishery and has become a figurehead for the campaign to prevent water companies from dumping sewage into UK waterways and coasts.

Awards and Honors

Legacy and Impact

Feargal Sharkey's contributions to music, both as a punk icon and a solo artist, have left an indelible mark on the industry. His dedication to supporting emerging talent and protecting the environment has cemented his status as a champion of the music industry. As a rebellious voice of his generation, Sharkey's legacy continues to inspire and influence new waves of musicians and activists.

Timeline
1958
Born in Northern Ireland
Feargal Sharkey was born in Northern Ireland, where he would later become a successful musician.
1978
Formed The Undertones
Sharkey formed The Undertones, a punk rock band that would gain a cult following in the UK and beyond.
1980
Released Teenage Kicks
The Undertones released Teenage Kicks, a hit single that would become an anthem of the punk era.
1984
Went Solo
Sharkey went solo, releasing his debut album and exploring new musical directions.
2011
Awarded OBE for Services to Music
Sharkey was awarded an OBE for his services to music, recognizing his contributions to the industry.
Feargal Sharkey

Feargal Sharkey Quiz

What was Feargal Sharkey's role in The Undertones?

Score: 0/5
FAQ
What is Feargal Sharkeys contribution to the Undertones?
Feargal Sharkey was the lead vocalist of the Northern Irish punk band The Undertones, known for their hit single Teenage Kicks, which is often cited as one of the greatest punk songs of all time.
What solo projects has Feargal Sharkey undertaken?
After leaving The Undertones, Sharkey pursued a successful solo music career, releasing several albums, including Feargal Sharkey and Wheels in Motion, which spawned the hit single A Good Heart.
What awards has Feargal Sharkey won?
Sharkey has won several awards, including the 1991 Brit Award for Best British Male Artist and the 1991 Ivor Novello Award for Best Contemporary Song for Mr. Moonlight.
What charity work has Feargal Sharkey been involved in?
Sharkey has been involved in several charitable initiatives, including supporting organizations that promote music education and advocating for artists rights.
What is Feargal Sharkeys current occupation?
Sharkey currently serves as the CEO of UK Music, a British music industry umbrella organization that represents the collective interests of the UK music industry.

Related People:

Bono

66 Years Old

Lead vocalist of U2, renowned for powerful voice and activism on global issues like poverty and AIDS, inspiring millions through music and humanitarian work.

The Edge

64 Years Old

Lead guitarist and keyboardist of the iconic rock band U2, known for his signature sound and atmospheric textures that have shaped the band's distinctive style.

Adam Clayton

66 Years Old

Bassist and songwriter for the iconic rock band U2, known for his distinctive playing style and contributions to hits like "With or Without You" and "One".

Larry Mullen, Jr.

64 Years Old

Drummer and co-founder of the iconic rock band U2, known for his distinctive drumming style and contributions to the band's socially conscious and anthemic sound.

Bob Geldof

74 Years Old

Irish musician and activist who organized the iconic Live Aid concerts to raise awareness and funds for famine relief in Ethiopia, and is known for his hit song "I Don't Like Mondays".

Phil Collins

75 Years Old

A legendary musician who dominated the 80s airwaves with iconic hits like "In the Air Tonight" and "Sussudio", known for his powerful drumming and soulful vocals.

Sting

67 Years Old

A legendary professional wrestler known for his intense matches, iconic face paint, and unforgettable entrances. He's a 14-time world champion and a WWE Hall of Famer.

Peter Gabriel

76 Years Old

A legendary artist who pioneered progressive rock and later became a successful solo artist, known for his powerful voice, theatrical live performances, and iconic hits like "Sledgehammer" and "Don't Give Up".