Personalities | Robbie Williams | Nineties | Rock

(Vocals, b. 1974)

Typically, the first single issued in 1996 by this former Take That member was a cover version of George Michael’s ‘Freedom’. Although ‘Old Before I Die’ was another hit in 1997, there was a perception that things might be slipping away due to Williams’ passion for late nights, drugs and alcohol. In fact co-writing material with collaborator Guy Chambers Life Thru A Lens (1997) was an excellent collection of songs and when ‘Angels’ became an anthem Williams was no longer written off.

Embracing success with both hands Williams’ I’ve Been Expecting You (1998), Sing When You’re Winning (2000) and Escapology (2003) revelled in rock powerchords and pop nous as singles like ‘Rock DJ’ and the wide-angled beauty of Bond-inspired ‘Millennium’ confirmed. Intensive Care (2006) showed mature exploration with co-songwriter Stephen Duffy. As the No. 1 male artist in the UK Williams could afford to ignore the 2006 Take That reunion. After a hiatus he returned to Take That in 2010. His 2012 release Take The Crown put him back at the top.

Styles & Forms | Nineties | Rock
Personalities | Adele | Twenty-First Century | Rock

Source: The Definitive Illustrated Encyclopedia of Rock, general editor Michael Heatley

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