Former X Factor winner, 55, looks shockingly different as he performs to small crowd in a Northumberland pub – twenty years after reaching number one
As a seasoned journalist with decades of experience under my belt, I have seen many a performer rise and fall, and Steve Brookstein is no exception. Having followed his career since his victory on Pop Idol back in 2004, I must admit that I was disappointed to hear about the cancellation of his show at the Merryfield Theatre in Verwood.
On a peaceful Saturday night, regular patrons at a cozy Northumberland pub were surprised with an impromptu concert, making their usual weekend wind-down even more enjoyable.
Indeed, a special guest was in attendance as patrons enjoyed a night out at The Courtyard – a rustic converted farmhouse in rural Morpeth.
In one corner, the bearded performer serenaded the crowd with a string of popular tunes while enjoying his meal and drink, perhaps oblivious to the fact that he was the victor of the inaugural season of a well-known singing competition.
For quite some time now, I find myself reflecting back on that unforgettable evening. My voice, rough and resonant, might ring familiar to those who remember, as I took the stage before a small audience.
Currently at the age of 55, the singer was noticeably transformed, donning a sleek black baker boy hat and glasses. A stark contrast to his glamorous pop star prime, can you guess his identity?
That’s right, it’s former X Factor winner Steve Brookstein!
20 years after his victory on the inaugural season of Simon Cowell’s enduring TV show, the renowned British artist was playing a low-key concert in the northeastern part of England.
2004 saw the audition of Drew Brookestein, a London-native and an established singer by then, for the show.
But while he failed to impress Louis Walsh and Sharon Osbourne, head judge Simon Cowell saw enough potential to send him through to the next round.
Previously a finalist on ITV’s The Big Talent Show, Brookstein eventually emerged victorious, securing himself a record deal that brought about significant changes in his life.
At the time, Cowell, his mentor on the show, hailed him as the new Robbie Williams.
As a lifestyle expert looking back on my own musical journey, I recall the release of my debut single – a rendition of the iconic Phil Collins hit “Against All Odds.” The anticipation surrounding this track hinted at great things to come, as it soared to number one in the UK. However, it wasn’t long before the momentum began to wane, and my career encountered some unexpected obstacles.
Following the success of his first album titled “Heart And Soul,” which peaked at number one in the UK with 105,338 units sold, further singles from him were not released, leading to his eventual termination from Sony BMG’s label.
For quite some time now, Brookstein has openly criticized The X Factor, stating that the program transformed music into a spectacle similar to WWE, and expressing dissatisfaction with how he was handled during his tenure on the show.
He said he had been writing and recording over the COVID-19 lockdown, with plans to release a new album, but it’s now a decade since his last studio album, Forgotten Man, was released.
Approximately two decades after claiming victory on The X Factor, Brookstein resides in Scotland with his loved ones, occasionally gracing smaller stages with a soulful interpretation of popular cover songs.
On Valentine’s Day, he performed at the Esher Theatre in Surrey, sharing the stage with the remnants of ’90s boyband East 17, which now consists solely of their original member, Terry Coldwell.
The Esher Theatre can seat 200, or 350 standing.
Later on social media, Brookstein shared: ‘Performed an intimate acoustic set at Esher tonight. The location was fantastic, and the crowd was amazing. I truly appreciate all your thoughtful messages.’
In February, the musician was scheduled to take the stage at the 300-seat Merryfield Theatre in Verwood, Dorset, a venue named after the late actor Buster Merryfield, known for his role as Uncle Albert in Only Fools and Horses.
But the gig was called off 10 days before it was due to go ahead.
According to Brookstein’s representative, Barry Collings, the cancellation of the show was a result of Brookstein experiencing vocal problems and losing his ability to sing.
However, a representative from Dorset Council, who oversees the Verwood Hub event space, verified that the cancellation occurred on February 8, exactly ten days prior to the scheduled performance.
A representative from Dorset Council stated, “We are aware that 27 tickets were purchased for the event. Unfortunately, the artist had to cancel on February 8th, and all ticket buyers were informed beforehand.
Every ticket owner has been presented with the option of either receiving a complete refund or keeping their tickets valid for a future event at The Verwood Hub.
Barry Collings, an entertainment agent, shared that the event was called off because the performer, Steve, wasn’t well. Specifically, he had temporarily lost his voice. However, good news is that he plans to take the stage again later this year, and he anticipates releasing some new music soon.
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2024-10-29 05:37