The Great and Not-So-Great of Simply Red

Simply Red has been one of the premier British acts to emerge from the 1980s and 90s – and for good reason. With their classic hits like “Holding Back The Years”, “Stars”, and “Fairground”, singer/songwriter Mick Hucknall crafted an undeniable sound that resonated with listeners all over the world. From their early days in big-band soul to their jazzy arrangements on later albums, Simply Red was a force to reckoned with in popular music. That said, not every fan has had entirely glowing things to say about the band; there are some criticisms that have emerged over time as well. In this blog post we will explore both aspects of Simply Red – taking a look at what critics have said alongside celebrating all that makes them so great!

As one of the premiere British acts from the 80s and 90s, Simply Red is a name that’s hard to ignore. This band has been creating hit songs for decades, with a sound that’s both timeless and unique. However, with all great things comes criticism. Not every fan has had the same positive experience with Simply Red. In this blog post, we’ll explore the great aspects of their music alongside some of the not-so-great, taking a closer look at the impact they had on the music industry and why some fans may have mixed feelings.

Let’s start with the great aspects of Simply Red. Led by the talented singer/songwriter Mick Hucknall, this band knew how to craft a hit song. “Holding Back The Years”, “Stars”, and “Fairground” are just a few examples of the timeless music they created. Hucknall’s voice was silky smooth, and he had a unique style that set him apart from other singers of his time. Together, the band had a sound that was both sophisticated and accessible, making it easy for people all over the world to fall in love with their music.

Yet, not everyone was on board with Simply Red’s sound. Some critics argued that they were too derivative, that they borrowed heavily from other genres without adding anything truly original. Some even accused them of not being “soulful” enough for a band that was often categorized in that genre. Additionally, some critics were turned off by Hucknall’s tendency to flirt with controversy, often using his platform to make controversial statements about social issues.

But despite the criticism, Simply Red had a massive impact on popular music. Their albums and singles consistently topped the charts, ensuring that they were a household name for decades. Furthermore, they were known for their energetic live performances. They often went on massive world tours, showcasing their top hits and captivating audiences with their signature style. They even won multiple music awards, demonstrating the lasting impact they had on the music industry.

In conclusion, Simply Red was a band that had a huge impact on the music industry, providing listeners with a sophisticated yet accessible sound that transcended genres and inspired listeners all over the world. While some critics may have had negative things to say about the band, there’s no denying the lasting impact they’ve had on the world of music. Whether you were a fan of their soulful sound or not, there’s no denying that Simply Red was a band that had a unique and undeniable presence in the music world – and will continue to do so for years to come.