Biography
Who is Tony Martin?
Early life and background
Tony Martin was born Anthony Philip Harford on April 19, 1957, in Birmingham, United Kingdom. He grew up to become a British heavy metal singer, composer, author, and musician. Although he is primarily known for his powerful vocal performances, he is also a skilled multi-instrumentalist.
In interviews, Tony Martin has stated that he plays several instruments including the guitar, bass, drums, violin, keyboards, harmonica, bagpipes, and pan pipes. On his 2005 solo album titled Scream, he performed vocals, bass, drums, violin, and additional guitar parts himself.
Joining Black Sabbath
Tony Martin was contacted by Black Sabbath to replace Glenn Hughes after a previous year of talks. He secured his place in the band after a successful audition singing the track titled The Shining. His debut album with the group was titled The Eternal Idol, which was released on December 8, 1987, after facing various recording and production delays.
The album reached number 66 on the UK charts and number 168 in the US. During this promotional period, the band faced controversy and criticism from activists regarding shows played in South Africa. Despite mixed contemporary reviews, later internet era reviews praised Tony Martin for adding new fire to the band.
Headless Cross and Tyr albums
Tony Martin returned to the studio with Black Sabbath to record the album Headless Cross, which was released in April 1989. The album reached number 31 on the UK charts, anchored by the charting single of the same name. Reviewers later described this release as one of the finest non-Ozzy or Dio albums from the group.
Following that release, Tony Martin worked on the follow-up album titled Tyr, which was released on August 6, 1990. The album reached number 24 on the UK albums chart and featured lyrical themes loosely based on Norse mythology. The band toured in support of these records across Europe and other international locations.
Solo career and other projects
Tony Martin recorded his first solo album titled Back Where I Belong while Black Sabbath briefly reunited with Ronnie James Dio. This solo project featured contributions from former band members such as Neil Murray and Cozy Powell. He later returned to Black Sabbath briefly before departing again due to management and record company changes.
Aside from his work with Black Sabbath and his solo releases, Tony Martin has been involved in several other musical projects and collaborations. These additional ventures include groups and projects such as M3, Misha Calvin, The Cage, Giuntini Project, and Phenomena.
Birthday and age
Tony Martin was born on April 19, 1957, which makes Tony 69 years old today. That birthday falls under the Aries sign. Tony shares the date with 56 other famous people.
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