Simply Red Classic Albums: Stars

British band Simply Red found much success throughout the 1980s and '90s with their catchy, soul-infused pop. Formed in 1984, the band was led by vocalist Mick Hucknall, formerly of the more punk-based Frantic Elevators. Simply Red paved their way onto the charts with three well-received albums, but it was their fourth that really set the band apart from other soul-influenced acts. With 1991's STARS, the group explored new avenues, adding hip-hop inspired elements to their already established soul grooves. This approach proved to be popular with fans, and STARS sold more copies than any of their previous efforts, staying on the top of the UK charts for a total of 19 weeks. As part of the CLASSIC ALBUMS series, this documentary features song and video clips from STARS, accompanied by revealing interviews with band members Gota Yashiki (drums), Shaun Ward (bass), Fritz McIntyre (keyboards), Heitor T.P. (guitar), Ian Kirkman (sax) and Mick Hucknall himself. The band discuss at length how they approached writing music for this groundbreaking album, with various managers and producers of the band offering insight into its recording and production process.