Matt Monro, born Terence Edward Parsons on December 1, 1930, in Shoreditch, London, England, showed early musical talent as a child. His father was a skilled pianist, and Matt often sang along to his father's playing. At the age of 17, Matt joined the British Army, where he served as a tank driver. It was during this time that he discovered his love for singing and began performing at military events and local pubs.
After leaving the army, Matt worked various odd jobs, including driving a bus, which earned him the nickname "The singing bus driver". However, his big break came in 1956 when he appeared on the BBC Show Band and caught the attention of music industry professionals.
At the suggestion of producer George Martin, Matt changed his name to Matt Monro and signed a record deal with EMI. His smooth baritone voice quickly gained him a reputation as one of the best crooners of his time. In 1959, he recorded his first hit single, "Portrait of My Love", which catapulted him to international fame.
Matt's partnership with composer John Barry also proved to be fruitful, as they collaborated on several songs for popular films, including "From Russia With Love" and "Born Free". These songs showcased Matt's vocal range and versatility, further solidifying his status as a top-tier performer.
Throughout his career, Matt Monro was supported by his wife Mickie, whom he married in 1951. The couple had three children together: Mitchell, Michele, and Matthew. Despite his busy schedule, Matt always made time for his family and often brought them along on his international tours.
As the 1960s and 1970s ushered in a new era of music, Matt Monro continued to remain relevant in the music industry. His live performances at prestigious nightclubs in London and Las Vegas earned him the nickname "The Man With the Golden Voice". Matt's smooth, romantic style endeared him to fans around the world, and his song "My Kind of Girl" became a signature tune.
In his later years, Matt battled health issues but continued to perform until his untimely death in 1985 at the age of 54. Despite his passing, his music continued to resonate with audiences, and he was posthumously inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2008.
Matt Monro's influence on the music industry cannot be overstated. His timeless classics and distinctive voice have left an indelible mark on generations of musicians. His songs continue to be covered by artists worldwide, and his legacy lives on through his children and fans who still cherish his music.
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