Steve Marriott: Height, Biography & More Facts You Need To Know
Ever heard the name Steve Marriott? He wasn't just a musician; he was a powerhouse, a vocal marvel who shaped the sound of British rock and soul, and whose influence continues to resonate decades after his tragically early departure.
From the streets of East Ham to the global stage, Steve Marriott's journey was a testament to raw talent and unwavering passion. He first graced the spotlight as a child actor, embodying both Oliver and the Artful Dodger in Lionel Bart's stage production of "Oliver!". But it was his voice, a gritty, soulful instrument that would catapult him to international fame as the lead singer and guitarist for the Small Faces, a band that came to epitomize the Mod movement. The name, a playful nod to their diminutive stature, belied the colossal impact they would have on music and popular culture. The Small Faces, formed in 1965 by Ronnie Lane with Steve Marriott, Jimmy Winston, and Kenney Jones, quickly achieved UK number one hit, demonstrating the power of their talent.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Steve Marriott |
| Born | January 30, 1947, East Ham Memorial Hospital, Plashet, East Ham, London, England |
| Died | April 20, 1991, Arkesden, Essex, England |
| Height | 5' 4" (1.63 m) - According to some sources, though some contemporary reports suggest the figures may have been slightly inflated. |
| Occupations | Singer, Songwriter, Musician, Actor |
| Instruments | Vocals, Guitar, Harmonica |
| Bands | Small Faces, Humble Pie |
| Influences | Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, Ray Charles, American R&B |
| Notable Albums | "Small Faces" (1967), "Ogdens' Nut Gone Flake" (1968), "Humble Pie" (1970) |
| Marriages | Toni Poulton, Jenny Rylance |
| Children | Various |
| Associated Acts | Ronnie Lane, Ian McLagan, Kenney Jones, Peter Frampton, Jerry Shirley |
| Legacy | Considered one of the most distinctive and influential voices in British rock music. Marriotts raw energy and soulful vocals continue to inspire musicians. |
| Reference Website | AllMusic - Steve Marriott Biography |
Born in East Ham, London, on January 30, 1947, Marriott's early life was marked by the challenges of a premature birth. Weighing in at a mere 4 lb 4 oz, he battled jaundice and spent four weeks in hospital before going home. This early vulnerability, however, seems to have fueled a resilience and determination that would characterize his entire career. His parents, Kay and Bill Marriott, provided the foundation for his journey, their home on Strone Road, Manor Park, a world away from the bright lights he would soon command.
The young Marriott's talents quickly became apparent. He wasn't just a singer; he was a performer. As a child actor, he found early success, showcasing a charisma that would later captivate audiences worldwide. This early training proved instrumental in shaping his stage presence, his ability to connect with a crowd, and his instinctive understanding of how to work a room. His time at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts further honed his skills, providing him with the tools he needed to excel.
The genesis of the Small Faces can be traced back to 1965, a year that would change Marriott's life forever. The band quickly became synonymous with the Mod scene, a subculture that prized style, music, and a specific attitude. The group, with their stylish attire and energetic performances, quickly became a defining act of this cultural movement, encapsulating the spirit of the era. The choice of the name, "Small Faces", was made because all band members were under 5'5" in height, a detail that adds a charming touch to their iconic status.
The band's music, a blend of soulful vocals, driving rhythms, and catchy melodies, resonated with a generation. The Small Faces achieved a UK number one hit, solidifying their place in music history. Their music remains relevant today, and is proof of their long-lasting appeal. Marriotts songwriting prowess, coupled with his vocal power, elevated the Small Faces beyond the realms of mere pop music. Their music was deeply rooted in the blues and R&B, influences that Marriott openly embraced, drawing inspiration from the likes of Otis Redding, Booker T. & the M.G.'s, and Ray Charles.
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The Small Faces success, however, was to be a relatively brief chapter in Marriott's career. The band, despite their popularity, faced internal conflicts and creative differences, ultimately leading to their dissolution. This was not the end, but rather a turning point. Marriott, ever restless and brimming with creative energy, moved on to form Humble Pie. Humble Pie allowed him to explore a harder-edged sound, fusing rock with blues and incorporating elements of gospel and soul. With Peter Frampton as a co-founder, they delivered performances marked by raw energy and musicianship.
Humble Pie quickly gained a devoted following, their live shows becoming legendary for their intensity and musical innovation. Marriott's voice, now deeper and more powerful, found a new vehicle for expression. The bands dynamic performances, characterized by long, improvisational jams, solidified their reputation. Albums like "Performance Rockin' the Fillmore" captured the energy and excitement of their live shows, becoming a touchstone of the era. The bands success wasnt limited to music. The Mod look that they epitomized was at the height of fashion at the time, and they defined an era.
The music world took notice. Marriotts vocal talent was coveted by some of the biggest names in music, including Bob Dylan, Robert Plant, Roger Daltrey, and David Bowie, who recognized his unique ability to convey emotion. These artists understood that he possessed a rare gift a voice that was both technically brilliant and deeply moving.
Even as the Small Faces and Humble Pie reached dizzying heights of success, Marriott's career faced its challenges. Personal issues, including marital problems and substance abuse, took their toll. The music business, with its inherent pressures, presented its own difficulties. Marriott's career trajectory was not always smooth, but his talent always shone through.
The story of Steve Marriott is not just about the music; it is a story about resilience. His early challenges and later struggles did not diminish his passion, and never did they obscure his remarkable talent. He remained true to his musical vision, constantly seeking new ways to express himself. He was, first and foremost, a musician. From his early child acting roles to his final musical endeavors, music was his life. The Steve Marriott memorial concert in London's Astoria in 2001, featuring Peter Frampton and others, served as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Marriott's life came to a tragic end on April 20, 1991, when he died in a house fire in Arkesden, Essex. His premature death cut short a career that still held the promise of new musical heights. Despite the tragedy, the fire did not extinguish his legacy. His music lives on, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans. Marriott is a reminder of the power of music, the importance of staying true to your vision, and the lasting impact of a truly unique talent.
His music continues to be celebrated, reminding us of a time when music was raw, genuine, and filled with soul. Steve Marriotts influence resonates in the work of countless musicians, ensuring that his music remains an important part of music history. Today, his voice can still be heard, a timeless testament to a life lived through music.
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Steve Marriott Biography IMDb
Steve Marriott on Small Faces hit that "typified" the 1960s
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