Roachford, ever since the hit 'Cuddly Toy' graced the airwaves in 1988, has embodied an enthralling blend of rock and soul that has resonated across the UK and beyond. This unforgettable single, which has enjoyed over three decades of consistent radio play, set the stage for a career that's been nothing short of prolific. With a discography boasting ten studio albums and multiple greatest hits collections, Roachford hasn't just etched his name in the annals of music; he's proven to be an artist whose work is timeless. His songwriting prowess caught the attention of legendary names such as Michael Jackson, Joss Stone, and Chaka Khan, solidifying his position as a cherished songwriter. Furthermore, his tours alongside renowned acts like Terence Trent D’Arby and The Christians showcase his perpetual relevance in the music scene. Recognising his contributions, an MBE for Services to Music was bestowed upon him in 2019, marking a high point in a career defined by emotional evocation through music, as he described to the Princess Royal.
In 2020, Andrew Roachford's unyielding passion for music found him in a familiar place, creating new heartfelt melodies for his album 'Twice in a Lifetime'. The lead single, 'High on Love', not only enjoyed a remarkable 5-week stint on Radio 2's A-list but also served as a testament to Roachford's deep understanding of love's complexities, drawing comparisons to the profound narratives of Womack and Womack. His music, while celebrating love's unfiltered purity, doesn't shy away from exploring its darker, more challenging facets, offering a full spectrum of human emotion in his compositions.
The release of 'Twice in a Lifetime' was complemented by an extensive tour that saw Roachford reconnect with fans in the UK and Europe between 2021 and 2022. His electrifying performances at notable venues and festivals, including London’s Hammersmith Apollo, Rye International Jazz Festival, Hamburg’s Reeperbahn Festival, and CarFest North, exemplified his unwavering vitality on stage. The album itself, charged with soulful musicality and produced by the esteemed Jimmy Hogarth, featured collaborations with talents from Amy Winehouse’s band and a remarkable duet with Beverley Knight, delivering an audial experience rich in sonic energy and raw emotion.
For nearly a decade, aside from his solo endeavours, Roachford has also shone as a lead vocalist and keyboardist for Mike + the Mechanics, further proving his versatility and commitment to his craft. His journey with Mike Rutherford's post-Genesis supergroup has seen him record and perform across the globe, captivating international audiences. As they have completed a sold-out UK tour in 2023, including a headline performance at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, Roachford's pre-show ritual of channelling the dynamic spirit of James Brown highlights his dedication to delivering impassioned performances. His voice, reminiscent of legends like Al Green and Joe Cocker, commands attention — when Roachford sings, the world listens.
