Brian Connolly is a Scottish rock singer from Glasgow, born in 1945 and known as a member of Sweet. He dies in 1997.

Early life and first bands

He is born in Hamilton, Scotland, and is adopted at birth. He is given the name Brian McManus, then changes his surname to Connolly after discovering his adoption at the age of 18. He moves to Middlesex at 18 and joins Wainwright's Gentlemen, replacing Ian Gillan. The line-up includes drummer Mick Tucker. The band splits in 1968 without releasing any recordings.

Sweet

Connolly and Tucker stay together after Wainwright's Gentlemen ends. They recruit guitarist Frank Torpey and bassist Steve Priest, and the new band is first called Sweetshop before shortening its name to Sweet. Connolly records albums with Sweet for 13 years. In 1979, he leaves the group because of a drinking problem.

Later career and health

After leaving Sweet, Connolly begins a solo career that has limited success. In 1981, he survives multiple heart attacks in one night, and his health is permanently affected. Even so, he continues touring with backing bands including New Sweet and Brian Connolly's Sweet.

Reunions

In 1988, Connolly reunites with former bandmates Andy Scott, Steve Priest and Mick Tucker to rework studio versions of "Action" and "Ballroom Blitz". The four reunite again in 1990 to promote a video music documentary.

Death

Connolly dies of liver failure in 1997.