Roger Whittaker was a British singer-songwriter and musician who rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s.
He was born on March 22, 1936, in Nairobi, Kenya, and spent his childhood in Africa before moving to the UK to pursue a career in music.
Whittaker’s music is known for its folk and pop influences, and he has released numerous albums throughout his career, many of which have been successful both in the UK and internationally.
Some of his most popular songs include The Last Farewell, Durham Town and New World in the Morning.
In addition to his music career, Whittaker has also worked as a television presenter and hosted his own show, The Roger Whittaker Show, in the 1980s.
He has also been involved in various charitable causes, including supporting the fight against apartheid in South Africa.
Kenyan-born British folk singer Roger Whittaker dies at 87 pic.twitter.com/h7wIPVREWO
— NTV Kenya (@ntvkenya) September 18, 2023
Roger Whittaker wife
Whittaker’s wife is Natalie O’Brien.
The couple met in 1964 when Whittaker was performing in a club in Durban, South Africa, and got married in August of the same year.
Natalie has been Whittaker’s manager since 1989.
They have five children together, two sons, and three daughters named Emily, Lauren, Jessica, Guy and Alexander.
The couple now has 11 grandchildren.
Roger Whittaker career
Whittaker’s career has spanned over six decades, making him one of the most successful and enduring performers in the music industry.
His musical journey began in the 1960s when he signed with Fontana Records and released his debut album, Whistle Stop! in 1967.
The album featured his first hit single, Mexican Whistler, which reached the top 20 in the UK charts.
This success was followed by a string of hits, including Durham Town (The Leavin’) and New World in the Morning, both of which became signature songs for Whittaker.
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Whittaker continued to release chart-topping albums and singles, achieving international success.
He became particularly popular in Germany, where he recorded numerous songs in German and hosted his own television show, Roger Whittaker in Kenya.
Some of his notable hits during this period include I Don’t Believe in ‘If’ Anymore, The Last Farewell and River Lady.
In addition to his solo career, Whittaker has collaborated with various artists, including Des O’Connor, Helen Reddy, and Barbara Dickson.
He has also ventured into acting, appearing in the 1986 film The Wind in the Willows and the 1997 TV series The Darling Buds of May.
Whittaker’s success has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including a Golden Lion at the Midem Music Festival in Cannes and a Silver Clef Award from the British Music Industry.
He has sold over 55 million records worldwide and continues to perform and record music, although he has announced his retirement from touring in recent years.