Lee Brilleaux
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10 May 1952
Lee Brilleaux | |
|---|---|
 Brilleaux with Dr. Feelgood in 1992 | |
| Background information | |
| Born | Lee John Collinson 10 May 1952 Durban, South Africa |
| Died | 7 April 1994 (aged 41) Canvey Island, Essex, England |
| Genres | Rock, pub rock, R&B |
| Occupations | Singer, songwriter, musician |
| Instruments | Vocals, guitar, harmonica |
| Years active | 1970–1994 |
| Label | Stiff Records |
Lee Brilleaux (born Lee John Collinson; 10 May 1952 – 7 April 1994)[1] was an English rhythm-and-blues singer and musician with the band Dr. Feelgood.
Lee Brilleaux was born in Durban, South Africa, to English parents,[2] was brought up in Ealing, and moved to Canvey Island with his family when he was 13.[3] After leaving school he was employed as a solicitor's clerk, a job he kept until United Artists signed Dr. Feelgood in 1974.[4]
Career
Brilleaux co-founded Dr. Feelgood with Wilko Johnson in 1971 and was the band's lead singer, harmonica player, and occasional guitarist. According to one obituary: "Brilleaux and Johnson developed a frantic act, often charismatically dressed in dark suits and loose ties, shabby rather than smart. The rough, and almost ruthless, edge which ran through his vocal and harmonica style reflected the character and philosophy of the band."[3] In 1976, Brilleaux helped found Stiff Records, one of the driving forces of the "New Wave" of the mid- to late-1970s, with a loan of £500.[3] Johnson left Dr. Feelgood in 1977 but Brilleaux continued the band with Gypie Mayo on guitar in 1978. Also in 1978, Brilleaux played harmonica on a track on David Coverdale's Northwinds album. By 1984 he was the only founder member remaining. In 1986, he recorded the album Brilleaux, featuring songs by Johnny Cash. His last performance was in January 1994, at the Dr. Feelgood Music Bar in Canvey Island.[3]
Death
Brilleaux died on 7 April 1994 of lymphoma, a month before his 42nd birthday, in his home in Canvey Island.[3]
