With total sales exceeding 21.5 million singles in the United Kingdom, Cliff Richard stands as the third-top-selling artist in British chart history. Born Harry Rodger Webb in 1940, he transitioned from a rebellious rock and roll figure in the late 1950s to a versatile performer, maintaining a dominant presence across music, film, and television for over six decades.
Early Life and Career Origins
Born in Lucknow, British India, Richard relocated to England with his family in 1948. He attended St. Thomas' Church School in Howrah before completing his education at Cheshunt School. Early professional experience included work as a filing clerk, but he soon pursued a musical path, forming the vocal group The Quintones and performing with skiffle ensembles. By 1958, he had adopted his stage name and lead the group Cliff Richard & The Shadows, marking his entry into the professional music industry.
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The release of the single 'Move It' established Richard as a significant force in British rock and roll. Throughout his career, he achieved 14 UK number-one singles and remains the only artist to score a number-one hit in each of five consecutive decades. His output includes more than 130 singles, albums, and EPs reaching the UK Top 20, a record-setting achievement in the national music charts.
Film and Television Work
Beyond his musical contributions, Richard developed a substantial acting career. He appeared in various motion pictures, including Expresso Bongo, The Young Ones, Summer Holiday, and Wonderful Life. He also hosted his own television program for the BBC, successfully balancing his recording career with screen appearances and television work throughout the mid-twentieth century.
Awards and Recognition
Richard has received numerous honours for his contributions to the arts. He was named an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1980, received the Silver Clef Award, and was appointed a Commander of the Order of Prince Henry in 2006. He is also a Knight Bachelor and has earned multiple Brit and Ivor Novello awards.
Fast facts
- Born: 1940, Lucknow
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
- Education: St. Thomas' Church School, Howrah; Cheshunt School
- Awards: Officer of the Order of the British Empire (1980); Knight Bachelor
- Notable Group Membership: Cliff Richard & The Shadows
- Primary Occupations: Singer, actor, songwriter, composer
Questions readers ask
What was Cliff Richard's original name?
He was born Harry Rodger Webb.
Is Cliff Richard still active in music?
Yes, his career has spanned more than 65 years.
Achievements
- Knight Bachelor
- Educated at St. Thomas' Church School, Howrah and Cheshunt School
- Worked as film actor, singer and actor
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