Pauline Matthews, a talented and renowned English pop singer, has earned widespread recognition for her exceptional blue-eyed soul vocals, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique and powerful voice.
Born on March 6, 1947, Pauline Matthews, professionally known as Kiki Dee, made history by becoming the first female singer from the United Kingdom to secure a recording contract with Motown's prestigious Tamla Records, a testament to her immense talent and dedication to her craft.
Kiki Dee, a renowned British singer-songwriter, is famously associated with a trio of chart-topping hits, including the 1973 smash "Amoureuse", the 1974 chart-topper "I've Got the Music in Me", and the 1976 duet "Don't Go Breaking My Heart" with the illustrious Elton John.
This iconic collaboration not only reached the pinnacle of both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100 chart but also solidified their partnership as one of the most enduring and successful musical duos of all time.
In addition to her impressive solo discography, Kiki Dee has also lent her powerful vocals to numerous high-profile collaborations, including a 1981 single "Star" which served as the theme song for the revamped talent show Opportunity Knocks when it was revived by the BBC in 1987.
Fast-forward to 1993, Kiki Dee reunited with Elton John once more for his Duets album, this time delivering a stunning cover of Cole Porter's timeless classic "True Love". This rendition soared to the runner-up spot on the UK Singles Chart, further cementing the duo's status as one of the most beloved and respected musical partnerships in the industry.
Kiki Dee's extensive discography boasts an impressive array of 40 singles, three EPs, and 12 albums, a testament to her enduring impact on the music industry. Born in the vibrant city of Bradford, situated in the picturesque West Riding of Yorkshire, England, Kiki Dee's journey as a performer began at the tender age of 10, when she won a local talent contest, showcasing her remarkable talent to a wider audience.
As she entered her teenage years, Kiki Dee's passion for music only intensified, and at the age of 16, she secured her first paid job in the entertainment industry, marking the beginning of a lifelong dedication to her craft. This early success paved the way for her to sign with Fontana Records in 1963, launching her career as a solo artist and setting the stage for a lifetime of creative expression.
Notably, the nascent years of Kiki Dee's professional trajectory were characterized by her multifaceted contributions as a session singer, lending her distinctive vocal talents to a plethora of artists, including the illustrious Dusty Springfield.
Kiki Dee embarked on a remarkable musical journey in 1968, unleashing her debut album, "I'm Kiki Dee", upon the world. This inaugural effort featured a collection of tracks heavily influenced by the iconic Phil Spector, alongside a range of cover songs. One of the most notable tracks from this era is the 1968 release "On a Magic Carpet Ride", which initially started out as a B-side but has since become a beloved staple on the Northern soul circuit. In 2011, Fontana Records released a CD compilation titled "I'm Kiki Dee", which featured a significant portion of Kiki Dee's early recorded work.
**Kiki Dee's Biography:**
Kiki Dee is a British singer-songwriter known for her distinctive voice and eclectic music style. Born Pauline Matthews in 1947, Kiki Dee rose to fame in the 1960s with her debut album "I'm Kiki Dee". She has released numerous albums throughout her career, exploring various genres including pop, rock, and soul. Kiki Dee has collaborated with notable artists such as Elton John and has performed at various music festivals and concerts. Despite her impressive career, Kiki Dee remains humble and dedicated to her craft, continuing to produce and perform music that resonates with fans worldwide.
Mitch Murray, a renowned songwriter, played a pivotal role in shaping the career of Kiki Dee by creating her stage name and crafting her debut single, "Early Night". This early collaboration marked the beginning of a fruitful partnership that would see Murray's creative influence continue to shape Dee's musical trajectory.
In the United States, Kiki Dee made history by becoming the first white British artist to be signed by the iconic Motown record label. This groundbreaking achievement was a testament to Dee's talent and versatility, as she prepared to release her first single for the legendary label in 1970.
