Simply Red is a British soul and pop band formed in Manchester in 1985. The group was founded and led by singer Mick Hucknall, who became known for his distinctive soulful voice and striking red hair, which inspired the band’s name. Simply Red emerged from the post-punk era, blending elements of soul, pop, and blue-eyed soul to create a sound that resonated with audiences around the world. The band’s debut album, *Picture Book*, was released in 1985 and featured the hit single "Holding Back the Years," which became a worldwide success and topped the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. This success established Simply Red as a leading act in the soul-pop genre. Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, Simply Red released a string of successful albums, including *Men and Women* (1987), *A New Flame* (1989), and the critically acclaimed *Stars* (1991). *Stars* became one of the best-selling albums in the UK during the 1990s, with standout tracks such as "Something Got Me Started" and "For Your Babies." Known for their polished production and emotionally resonant lyrics, Simply Red continued releasing albums and touring internationally, maintaining a loyal fan base. While the lineup changed over the years, Mick Hucknall remained the constant core of the band. In 2010, Hucknall announced that Simply Red would disband after a farewell tour. However, the band reunited in 2015 to mark its 30th anniversary and released new material, including the albums *Big Love* (2015) and *Blue Eyed Soul* (2019), which saw a return to their soulful roots. Simply Red remains one of the most successful British bands of their era, with over 50 million albums sold worldwide and a legacy marked by chart-topping hits and vibrant live performances.