Marti Pellow, originally named Mark McLachlan, was born on March 23, 1965, in Scotland. He gained fame as the frontman of the beloved pop band Wet Wet Wet, which he co-founded in 1982. Pellow's tenure with the group lasted until their initial breakup in 1997, followed by a reunion from 2004 until his departure in 2017. Wet Wet Wet achieved significant commercial success, particularly in the late 1980s and 1990s, known for hits like "Love is All Around" and "Sweet Little Mystery."
Pellow's musical journey began at the tender age of seven, inspired by the sounds of Burt Bacharach and Hal David, and deeply influenced by soul legends like Marvin Gaye and Sam Cooke. Despite initial disapproval from his father, who envisioned a more traditional career path, Pellow pursued his passion for music. In high school, he formed a band initially called Vortex Motion, which later evolved into Wet Wet Wet, a name inspired by a Scritti Politti track.
The band's success faced challenges, including Pellow's battle with heroin addiction, which he overcame. After a brief hiatus, Wet Wet Wet reassembled in 2004, but Pellow ultimately chose to focus on his solo career, collaborating with lyricist Chris Difford of Squeeze. Throughout his diverse career, Pellow has also showcased his talents in musical theatre, performing in prestigious venues like the West End and Broadway. His contributions to music and theatre continue to resonate with fans worldwide.
