Mick Hucknall, the unmistakable voice behind Simply Red, was spotted in a rare low-key moment on Wednesday, blending into the quiet streets of North London with his dog, Pip. Known for a string of hits that defined the ’80s, the singer looked nearly unrecognizable with his famous ginger locks tucked under a hat, shades covering his eyes, and a relaxed outfit consisting of a forest green top and loose-fitting jeans.
But despite the casual attire, it’s clear that Hucknall, now 64, is still living life on his own terms as he gears up for Simply Red’s upcoming 40th anniversary tour.
While the singer’s laid-back dog walk might seem worlds apart from the glitzy rock star persona that once dominated headlines, it’s a reminder that even legends take time to enjoy the simple things. Tinted sunglasses and fingerless gloves rounded off his understated look, as he strolled alone with Pip by his side. For fans of Simply Red, it’s hard to forget the man who belted out iconic tracks like “Holding Back the Years” and “Money’s Too Tight (To Mention)”—songs that still resonate almost four decades later.
Mick’s life today, however, is a far cry from his wild days of global tours and rumored romances with A-list stars. Reflecting on his playboy lifestyle in the ’80s, Hucknall has acknowledged that the coronavirus pandemic forced him to reassess his priorities.
Once famous for his bachelor escapades and having reportedly dated stars like Catherine Zeta-Jones and Martine McCutcheon, Mick is now happily settled as a father and husband. He and his wife, Gabriella Wesberry, tied the knot in 2010, and they share a daughter, Romy.
In a candid interview with “The Sun”, Hucknall admitted that while he enjoyed his earlier days of globe-trotting and romantic entanglements, he doesn’t miss them, saying, “I’m in a much happier place now than I’ve ever been in my life.” And that happiness shows as he prepares for a massive 40th anniversary tour, a testament to Simply Red’s staying power.
From the SSE Arena in Belfast to London’s iconic 02 Arena, the band’s 13-date tour will not only mark four decades of music but also Hucknall’s evolution—from rock star heartthrob to content family man.
Still, Mick’s connection to his music remains as deep as ever. In a 2023 interview, he opened up about the personal pain that fueled one of his biggest hits, “Holding Back the Years.” Written about his mother leaving when he was just three years old, the song reflects the emotional struggles of his early life with his father.
Hucknall shared how this abandonment left a lasting impact, but also inspired resilience, as his father worked tirelessly to raise him.
As Mick Hucknall prepares to hit the road with Simply Red once more, fans are reminded not only of his enduring musical legacy but also of the man behind the music—one who has lived, loved, and come full circle in both his personal and professional life.
