User:Stephen Bayliss
Stephen’s exciting career started around 1989 with two friends writing original, critically acclaimed soul songs. His band was called ‘Watch this space’ and if you did, you certainly weren’t disappointed.
In 1993 Stephen was hand picked to be a part of Sir Cliff Richard’s ‘Access all Areas’ tour, this gave him invaluable performance experience in front of massive audiences, after that tour, he joined up with three accomplished musicians to form the band ‘Hothead’. Hothead had a diverse range of influences and directions, sewn together by Stephen’s smooth soulful voice. All this experience forged him into a complete artist in every aspect and Stephen continued to grow and became one of the UK’s most successful performers, selling out every concert he plays.
In 2003 Stephen produced and appeared in his own theatre shows entitled ‘All night long’ and ‘Let there be love’. Featuring music from the swinging 50s through to soul classics like ‘Fly me to the moon’, ‘Let there be love’ and including Lionel Richie’s ‘All night long’ of course! The show also proved to be a platform for his requested and anticipated original material. Material he has since recorded for his album ‘Play for keeps’ backed by a 42 piece orchestra released in 2005. To this day Stephen still writes and records original music and continues to develop as an original artist. Stephen’s stage presence is magical, commanding the mood and audience to participate and have the time of their lives. His repertoire ranges from original Motown, R&B, Soul, Modern popular music and more, in short, Stephen can bring visions of an era gone-by or stand strong as a solo original or accomplished cover artist, this versatility allows him to tailor the performance exactly to the audience, ensuring everyone goes home with a memory to cherish.
Stephen has a unique ability to unite all generations on the dance floor with his powerful delivery of songs from the 50s through to the present day. Charity fund raising work is close to Stephen’s heart, Breast Cancer Care’s ‘Big Kiss’ event being an annual event he is involved with, Help the Aged, Derian House Children’s Hospice some of the other charities Stephen has supported. More recently Stephen has been made patron of SPACE, a multi sensory centre for children and adults with disabilities. Stephen is helping them raise the £3,000,000 they need to make the centre suitable for it's demands.
Theatre is increasing its presence in Stephen’s life; having selected the lead role in the Nat King Cole Story performed around the country, expect to see more theatre from him, as they said at the start of his career... ‘Watch this space’. All bookings have been through word of mouth due to the ever increasing buzz around his electric performances, bookings range from personal celebrations, functions and parties; public events, corporate, charity, celebrity and social events are all taken on with verve and enthusiasm. Stephen genuinely loves to sing and entertain, his professionalism and popularity is a testament to this. There really isn’t a medium or venue which Stephen isn’t comfortable in, radio, stage, concert... an appearance singing or fully entertaining an audience for the whole evening. Stephen is the first person to come to mind for anyone wants a great evening. Give him the mic and an audience and he’ll do the rest.
To listen to Stephen sing visit his website at www.stephenbayliss.co.uk and www.stephenbaylissfanclub.co.uk