Living in a Box are a British band founded in 1985, best known for their distinctive blend of blue-eyed soul, pop and sophisticated 80s production. Rising to international fame with their eponymous debut single 'Living in a Box', the band achieved number five on the UK Singles Chart in 1987 and secured a top twenty hit on the US Billboard Hot 100. Their polished sound, memorable hooks and smooth vocals quickly established them as one of the standout acts of the decade.
The group was formed in Sheffield by keyboardist Marcus Vere and drummer Tich Critchlow, who later met lead singer Richard Darbyshire by chance in a local recording studio while working on demos. Signing with Chrysalis Records in December 1985, Living in a Box built momentum with further Top 40 hits, including 'Scales of Justice' and 'So The Story Goes', the latter featuring Bobby Womack on its club mix. In 1989, they released their second album, 'Gatecrashing', co-produced by Dan Hartman and Tom Lord Alge, delivering major singles such as 'Room in Your Heart', which reached number five in the UK, and 'Blow The House Down', featuring lead guitar work from Brian May.
Although the band initially split in 1990, their legacy endured. They reformed for the Here And Now arena tour in 2004, bringing their catalogue to a new generation of audiences. In 2013, their signature hit 'Living in a Box' gained renewed global exposure after being featured in Grand Theft Auto V. In 2018, UK soul artist Kenny Thomas joined Marcus and Tich for a series of live performances, with Bryan Chambers later taking over lead vocal duties.
Living in a Box are hired for festivals, retro themed events, corporate celebrations and arena tours because they deliver authentic 80s chart nostalgia combined with polished musicianship. Their catalogue of UK Top 10 hits guarantees audience recognition, while their experienced live lineup ensures a vibrant, professional performance that resonates with multi-generational crowds seeking timeless pop and soul energy.
