Brian Howe

Brian Howe (22 July 1953 – 6 May 2020) was an English rock vocalist best known for fronting the classic British hard‑rock band Bad Company during its commercial resurgence in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Born in Portsmouth, Hampshire, Howe began his musical career in the early 1970s, performing with local groups such as Mandalay and later joining the progressive‑rock outfit White Spirit before moving to London to pursue broader opportunities. After a brief stint as a backing vocalist for the band Ted Nugent during a 1979 U.S. tour, he caught the attention of Bad Company’s founder Paul Mick Ridge who invited him to replace original singer Paul Ramon Stanley in 1986, a decision that would shape the next decade of his professional life. With Howe at the helm, Bad Company released three multi‑platinum albums—Blind Eye (1989), Holy Water (1991) and Here We Go (1993)—yielding hit singles such as "Ready For Love," "The Show Must Go On," and "Shake It," all of which showcased his powerful, soulful tenor and brought the band back onto international charts. Critics praised his ability to blend classic rock grit with a contemporary pop‑metal sheen, while longtime fans noted his charismatic stage presence and vocal agility. Beyond Bad Company, Howe pursued solo projects, releasing Tangled in Love (1996) and later partnering with former Bad Company guitarist Mick Ridge on the 2011 album The Road; he also contributed guest vocals for artists like Jethro Tull and The Cars. Despite battling health issues in his later years, Howe remained active in recording and touring until his sudden death from cardiac arrest in 2020, leaving a legacy of revitalized classic‑rock sound that influenced a generation of singers. His discography, distinctive voice, and resilience continue to be celebrated by both new listeners and veteran rock enthusiasts.