Northern soul star set to shine for charity

Nov 25 2010 by Eva Ketley, North Wales Weekly News

FEW performers from Northern Soul’s 60s heyday are still going strong, but veteran singer Tommy Hunt continues to perform.

Born in Pennsylvania in 1933, Tommy was part of vocal group The Flamingoes, which had success with their 1959 hit I Only Have Eyes For You.

As a regular at the Apollo Theater, he performed alongside the likes of Diana Ross and The Supremes, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles and others.

“I have so many memories of this time,” he said. “All the other singers were just buddies such as Jackie Wilson, The Shirelles, Chuck Jackson, Dionne Warwick, Sam and Dave and so many more. We were all trying to get our break at the same time.

“The legends for us were Elvis Presley, Big Bopper, Bill Haley, all the rock and roll stars.”

But his biggest achievement to date didn’t come until 2001, when he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

“It was an award for 30 years of contribution to music,” he explained.

“It was in New York and I stood there with Queen, Michael Jackson, Solomon Burke and was so humbled to have them approach me and tell me they loved my music.”

Hunt now lives in the UK and will perform at a Northern Soul charity concert in aid of Ysbyty Gwynedd’s Alaw ward, at Beaumaris Leisure Centre on Saturday, November 27.

As well as performing his best-loved hits, Tommy will also be promoting his new single, You Got It. A copy of the track on vinyl will be awarded to the best dancer on the night.

Tommy Hunt, Beaumaris Leisure Centre, Alaw ward fundraiser on Saturday, November 27, tickets 01248 811200.