Dave Dee (born David Harman, 17 December 1941 – 9 January 2009) was an English singer, songwriter and actor. He was one of the founder members of the British pop group Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich, who had several hits in the 1960s.
Dave Dee was born in Salisbury, Wiltshire, England. He attended Bishop Wordsworth's School, and formed a band called The Bojaxles with school friends. After leaving school, he became a roadie for an American touring band, The Cheers, who were managed by Don Arden.
In 1964, Dave Dee and his school friends formed the band Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich. The group enjoyed a string of hits in the mid to late 1960s, including ‘Hold Tight’, ‘Hideaway’, ‘Bend It’ and ‘Legend of Xanadu’. The group were also well known for their live performances, which featured a combination of comedy and music.
In 1969, Dave Dee left the band to pursue a solo career. He released two solo albums in the 1970s, ‘Let’s Do It Again’ and ‘Dave Dee’. He also worked as a session musician and producer.
In the 1980s, Dave Dee returned to the stage, performing with the group Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich and appearing in the musical ‘The Real Thing’. He also appeared in the film ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ and the television series ‘The Young Ones’.
In the 1990s, Dave Dee continued to perform with the group, and also appeared in the film ‘The Full Monty’. He released a solo album in 1998, ‘The Best of Dave Dee’, and also wrote and produced music for television programmes.
Dave Dee passed away in 2009, aged 67, from complications with pneumonia. He had been suffering from Parkinson’s disease since 2004.
Dave Dee will be remembered for his contribution to the British music scene in the 1960s and 70s, and for his wit and humour. He was a talented singer, songwriter and actor, and a beloved member of the Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich.
