Lucky Seven - Dr Feelgood, Lee Brilleaux

Lee Brilleaux (born John Lee Collinson, 10 May 1952 – 7 April 1994) was an English rhythm-and-blues singer and musician with the British band Dr Feelgood. He was born in Durban, South Africa, was brought up in Ealing, and moved to Canvey Island with his family when he was 13. He co-founded Dr Feelgood with Wilko Johnson in 1971 and was the band's lead singer, harmonica player and occasional guitarist. According to one obituary: "Brilleaux and Johnson developed a frantic act, often charismatically dressed in dark suits and loose ties, shabby rather than smart. The rough, and almost ruthless, edge which ran through his vocal and harmonica style reflected the character and philosophy of the band." In 1976, Brilleaux helped found Stiff Records, one of the driving forces of the “New Wave” of the mid- to late-1970s, with a loan from singer-songwriter John Hiatt. Johnson left Dr Feelgood in 1977. Brilleaux reformed the band with different musicians in the 80s and early 90s. By 1984 he was the only founder member remaining. In 1986, he recorded the album Brilleaux 86, featuring songs by Johnny Cash. His last performance was in January 1994, at the Dr Feelgood Music Bar in Canvey Island. He died on 7 April 1994 of lymphoma, at the age of 41, at his home in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.

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