Few artists embody the vibrant energy and synth-pop sound of the 1980s like Nik Kershaw. Bursting onto the UK music scene in 1984, he became a chart sensation, captivating hearts with his infectious melodies and thoughtful lyrics. While his time in the limelight burned bright and fast, Kershaw’s musical journey is far from over. Let’s delve into the life and career of this talented singer-songwriter, exploring his rise to fame, enduring legacy, and the fascinating path he’s carved in the music industry.
From Ipswich to International Stardom: Nik Kershaw’s Early Years
Born Nicholas David Kershaw on March 1, 1958, in Bristol, England, music was practically woven into his DNA. His father, a flautist, and his mother, an opera singer, nurtured a love for music in their son. The family later relocated to Ipswich, Suffolk, where young Nik’s passion for music truly blossomed.
While attending Northgate Grammar School for Boys, Kershaw taught himself to play the guitar, a pivotal moment that set him on his musical path. After leaving school, he honed his craft playing in various local bands, paying dues with covers of Deep Purple in a band aptly named Half Pint Hogg. He later explored his jazz-funk influences in a group called Fusion, even releasing an album, ‘Til I Hear From You, in the late 1970s.
The Making of a Pop Icon: “Wouldn’t It Be Good” and Chart Domination
Nik Kershaw became a teen idol after the release of his single 'Wouldn't It Be Good'.
Driven by a desire to forge his own path, Kershaw decided to pursue a solo career. After placing an ad in the iconic music magazine Melody Maker seeking a manager, fate intervened. Mickey Modern, the manager of the band Nine Below Zero, recognized Kershaw’s potential and helped him secure a deal with MCA Records.
His debut single, “I Won’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me,” released in 1983, offered the first taste of Kershaw’s talent, becoming a hit across Europe. However, it was his follow-up single, “Wouldn’t It Be Good,” that catapulted him to superstardom. Reaching number four on the UK charts, the song became an instant classic, its infectious energy and relatable lyrics resonating with audiences worldwide.
Kershaw became a teen idol, his youthful charm and catchy melodies dominating the airwaves. From 1984 to 1985, he held the impressive record for the most weeks spent in the UK charts by a solo artist, solidifying his status as a true pop force.
Nik Kershaw’s Musical Milestones: From Live Aid to Enduring Hits
In 1985, Kershaw took the stage at Live Aid, the monumental benefit concert organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure to raise funds for famine relief in Ethiopia. Performing alongside musical giants like Queen, David Bowie, and U2, Kershaw rose to the occasion, delivering a memorable set that included his hit “Wouldn’t It Be Good.”
Beyond his chart success, Kershaw earned recognition for his songwriting prowess. His ability to craft infectious melodies and introspective lyrics caught the attention of fellow musicians. He collaborated with Elton John, lending his guitar skills to recordings and tours, and even penned “The One and Only,” the smash-hit debut single for Chesney Hawkes in 1991. The song’s enduring popularity cemented Kershaw’s reputation as a hitmaker, even as he navigated the ever-changing landscape of the music industry.
While his mainstream success peaked in the ’80s, Kershaw continued to release music, exploring new sonic territories and collaborating with artists like Tony Banks, keyboardist for the progressive rock band Genesis. He released a total of nine studio albums, showcasing his musical evolution and commitment to his craft.
Nik Kershaw: Embracing Life Beyond the Spotlight
Kershaw with his first wife Sheri Pogmore in 1985. (Photo by Antony Matheus Linsen/Fairfax Media via Getty Images).
Throughout his career, Kershaw remained grounded, balancing the demands of fame with his personal life. He was married to Canadian musician Sheri Pogmore, who also contributed to some of his early albums. The couple had three children together before divorcing in 2003. Kershaw later remarried in 2009, finding love again with his wife Sarah, with whom he shares a son named Theo.
Today, Nik Kershaw continues to make music, perform live, and inspire aspiring musicians. He’s also a dedicated patron of the Down’s Syndrome Association, a cause close to his heart as a father of a son with the condition.
Nik Kershaw’s story is a reminder that success takes many forms. While his time in the pop music stratosphere may have been relatively short-lived, his impact on the music world is undeniable. His songs continue to resonate with fans, his songwriting talent is still sought after, and his passion for music remains as strong as ever. He’s an artist who poured his heart into his music, creating a legacy that extends far beyond the catchy hooks and synth-pop beats of the 1980s.
