LONDON FINAL & AFTER PARTIES

On Saturday 26th May, the 'Reborn in the Usa' final was held at Lwt studios.

Tony Hadley & Michelle Gayle sang three songs and Davina reflected on the 7 weeks spent cruising the Usa.

Tony Hadley was deservedly crowned 'Reborn King' and closed the show with the classic 'Barricades'.

After the live tv show, there was a press conference on the 18th floor of in the LWT building and a small party was tossed for the family and friends of the contestants.

Around midnight most of the contestants and the production team went to the posh 'Opium Club' where Leee had arranged a 'farewell' party.

A good, funky time was had by all, here's an impression of that last 'Reborn' day brought to you by our local reporters.

ENJOY THE PICTURE GALLERY!!

LWT Studios : Tony Hadley enjoying the attention and.... the beer!

Peter Cox , cornered but with a smile that says it all.

Michelle Gayle & papperazzo Steve 'the Greek'

'Starlurker' Steve & Reborn junior Haydon.

Steve 'looking for a way in', Gina 'looking for a way out'.

David Van Day reflecting on a hell of a ride and keeping his cool!

Leee kickin' off the party at the 'Opium Club' : 'those boots are killin' me'

Elkie at LWT Studios after the show : what can we say but talent & charm

Adam Pendse & Steve 'the Greek', buddies 'beer-drugged' at the Opium Club! Still standing........barely!

Cesca & Alex from UK Rumble, supporting Leee during the Reborn Show and shedding light in Dark Rooms!

Leee's friends : Leroy & Arlette The Security was 'tight' at LWT!

Final 26-04-03

Tony Hadley wins "Reborn" Final and is crowned REBORN KING.

CONGRATULATIONS TONE!!!!!

Coming up: review of final, Reborn picture gallery and dedications!!

NY 19-04-03

Tony Hadley wins NY voting and Michelle Gayle scores second, both contestant qualify for the London final. Peter Cox gave some of the most memorable performances during this Reborn Tour ended third and was eliminated. The frontman of 'Go West' can look back on a fantastic 7 weeks where he shone singing soul, pop and rock, his career will see a much deserved revival, we think!!!

VOTE TONY HADLEY REBORN KING :

CALL : 09011 155 401 or text Tony to 83200

Leee arriving in London 13-04-03

After spending six weeks touring the USA, from New Orleans to Cleveland, Leee John flew back to London. He arrived at Heatrow at 6.30am , on Sunday 13-04-03.

A tender, pleasant sun was preparing to shed light on the last day of an emotional, uplifting week.

Leee was welcomed by Mark Uttley (Big M), Steve 'the Greek' C. and his adorable wife Mary, Barry James who concocted the fabulous Reborn logos and frontpages during the USA adventure AND , last but not least a LOVELY lady who is a big fan of Tony Hadley, Leee's buddy, and who warmed up to our 'born again' artist.

It is LESLEY that was responsible for the great pix taken at Heatrow airport.

THANKS A BUNCH LESLEY (Lee for the friends) !!!!!!BIG UP

 
 

CLEVELAND

After six weeks on the Reborn bus, Leee lost the closest of votes against Michelle Gayle.

Leee waved the Cleveland audience and the English viewers goodbye with a great rendition of the 'Temptations' classic 'Just my imagination'.

Tony (The Don), Peter (PC), Haydon & Michelle will miss their buddy.

Here's the goodbye card they gave Leee when leaving Cleveland:

NASHVILLE

Leee gave a beatiful, soulful version of 'a little bit more' , the Dr. Hook classic;

but to everyone's surprise was nominated together with Michelle Gayle by the Nashville audience.

Press article 'Now magazine 02/04/03

After their undeserved elimination from the Reborn tour, 'Dollar' had this to say about the persons behind the artists :

Official Leee John "Reborn in The USA" Photos

Click on the photos to enlarge -copyright GRANADA PRODUCTIONS-

Interviews

TONY HADLEY

An empathic personality. 'The Chairman' , Leee calls him, '..and I'm his secretary'; a true artist with a golden voice

What artists have constantly influenced you?
First of all Frank Sinatra, he was and still is of great influence,..also Roxy Music and Queen.

What kind of music you'd take with you on a deserted island?
Any of the above, none of myself.

The music bizz today has come down big time. How would you compare the situation today to what it once was?
Music has always been too much based on accountancy and even more so today. Creativity is a dying factor. The balance between the two should be restablished. Music and artistry may never become inferior to money and commerce BUT they are.

How would you value the 'Reborn' competition?
Every singer is good in his own way. I agree, this is prime time television airing Saturday evening with an audience in the millions; BUT I have a 42-day tour coming up, a new single 'After all this time' and an album 'Lobsters and Limousines' coming out this year.

How would you like to be remembered, when your time has come to bid farewell?
As someone who didn't bitch and had a good time.

Did you ever take 'singing' classes to widen your vocal range, strengthen your voice?
Yep, for two years, I had a vocal coach, Pamela Dodds, I would recommend her to anyone , any time.

What would your advice be to any young aspiring artist of today?
You must have total belief and commitment. He/she should seek seek completely independent legal and financial advice. Be very careful in monitoring your career and make sure you are involved in every aspect, don't lose control : be aware , the biz can be cutthroat.

MICHELLE GAYLE

A multi-talented lady with style, charm and a peacemaker on the Reborn tour. Happy just to hear ya sing , sista.

What artists have constantly influenced you?
Anita Baker, Mary J. Blige and Stevie Wonder.

What kind of music would you take with you on a deserted island?
Stevie Wonder and 2 inner vision albums

What strikes you most if you compare the music bizz today to what it once was?
Too much marketing these days, there is not much time left for the artist to grow.

How would you value the 'Reborn' competition?
Reborn is a great experience, interesting opportunity, NO contest.

How would you like to be remembered, when your time has come to bid farewell?
As honest and REAL.

What would you prefer after 'Reborn' : a new album, a film or a musical?
Either an album OR a film.

How did the birth of your son influence you careerwise?
Anything I do is with his welfare on my mind.

PETER COX

A great singer, an empathic personality, Leee thinks highly of Peter

What artists have constantly influenced you?
I spent most of my time listening to Motown artists, music still evocative today. Stax label, Otis Redding, Al Green, recently Prince, J. Mitchell. Not forgetting B. Holiday and E. Fitzgerald.

What kind of music you'd take with you on a deserted island?
Firstly, the music I mentioned before; I seldom listen to my music, you know the process of writing, recording is so intense that it becomes difficult to go back to those songs, at least for a while.

The music bizz today has come down big time. How would you compare the situation today to what it once was?
Today young artists apparently do not come from a real musical background; most of the time they come from auditions organised by companies whose agenda is mainly concerned making money. Art versus commerce is an old debate!

How would you value the 'Reborn' competition?
Each of the artist is strong in his own way, but then you would expect me to say that. However, I would like to say that I have been telling Leee how much I enjoy his performances but he seems unwilling to take that on board. I truly think the competition is anyone's race. I'm concerned on singing as best as I can for as long as I last.

How would you like to be remembered, when your time has come to bid farewell?
What a question! I doubt very much that I will be remembered for any contribution I've made to the reality aspect of the show. I would be thrilled to be remembered as a talented singer and if I managed to touch any listeners along the way that would be wonderful.

Peter, you have your own website how important is this website for you?
My website is crucial during a time when, without major label support it provides my only means by which fans can keep in touch with what I'm doing and where I'm playing. Those friendly faces at shows can be a life-saver. I'm always very affected by the feedback I get from the message board, it has kept me going when I felt I was banging my head against the wall.
www.petercox.zen.co.uk

Frontman of a band or performing as a solo, what would you prefer?
The band is Go West! Richard is my closest friend and has been for 28 years now. With all the ups and downs, I always had the good fortune to play with fabulous musicians, players, with or without Richard. Everything happened so fast with the band, I feel now I didn't fully appreciate the experience back then. After a break , I have been back on the road recently and enjoying it more than ever. I know Richard has ambitions outside Go West but as long as he's willing to perform , I'll be there to sing the songs we've written together. Of course, if there was to be a solo career, I'll have the best of both worlds.

ELKIE BROOKS

What can we say about a living legend, but THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC

What artists have constantly influenced you?
Always was and still is Billie Holiday, Ella Fizgerald.

What kind of music would you take with you on a deserted island?
Well, first of all, I would need a wind-up grammophone, to play 78rpm records of Holiday and M. Reiny.

What strikes you most if you compare the music bizz today to what it once was?
I would say it was always a case of fashion rather than musical ability and even more today.

How would you value the 'Reborn' competition?
Well let me just say that this program is of great value to everyone taking part. It has been a great laugh already especially with Leee.

How would you like to be remembered, when your time has come to bid farewell?
A singer with a lot of heart.

After 'Reborn' what will be next on your agenda, any new material coming out?
I currently have 2 albums on jamrythm records : 'Sangri-la' and 'Trouble in Mind'.

Could you give us some spicy or interesting anecdotes of the period you were touring with the Beatles?
No I'm afraid I can't , I was very shy at the time. Most of the time I sat in the corner and kinda thought that people didn't notice me. Funny thing is , when I was touring last year and we had to perform at the Dominion Theatre , I was given the same room at the top of the theatre as I had in 63' when touring with The Beatles.

Memphis : Leee on probation

A short conversation with Leee on Saturday 30/03, this is what he had to say :

I had a great time this week in Memphis, we went to Graceland and did a grand tour of town that breathes Elvis. Well , Elvis was on our mind the whole week as we had to sing his songs. I wasn't pleased with the song I was to perform, It just didn't feel right, you know, it was one of these things that you are not totally merging with and unfortunately 'Return to Sender' was apparently not so well received by the audience. On Saturday I went to the 'Martin Luther King' museum with Michelle (Gayle) and had swell time. I'm now waiting for Tony to go out, just tell everyone that we're still on the bus and that I'm looking forward performing the song for 'Nashville', can't tell you what it is (as usual!) but it will be a nice surprise to many. Hope I do reach Cleveland where we will be singing 2 songs.

A special Hi to the fans in the UK and the rest of the world : especially Deirdre (Ireland) and Miss Sarah Willis and her daughter (thinking of her!!) and before I forget a big SCHMACKK to Jeannette and Mary from me and Tone!

Ciao, ciao

Leee

DETROIT

'What's goin' on : LEEE on the bus to Memphis

2 Voices on a bus : 'What's going on with G..., Ha! Ha! Ha!.. mustn't believe everything you hear through the grapevine,...!

SPINNING IN DETROIT

Leee gave the audience a great version, sung with a lot a body and soul, of the Marvin Gaye 'choon 'What's goin' on', the public got up and shook their hips for the first time on this tour.

Other stiff competition came from Peter Cox with yet another Marvin classic 'I heard it thru...'. Leee on Sunday : 'really glad to have that show canned, a lot of technical problems, sound balance, added to the tension. In the end I just went out there and sang it the way I felt it. We've had a great week in Detroit although from Wednesday on and after the first few rehearsals you felt the tension building'.
Eviction : Tony Hadley vs. Elkie Brooks

PHILADELPHIA : Review by Mark 'DL' HOLDAWAY

Hi

Well our man is thru, he sang "Betcha By Golly Wow" by The Stylisticts in that high falsetto of his. Must admit i was worried that the distinctive high tone might not go down well BUT it did work and he got a great reception from the audience! Before and after the performance.And Leees presentation was immaculate and faultless.Oh and a fine looking suit too!

Oh and up for eviction next week is Gina G and Elkie Brooks.So will it be the BOD or the VOICE?My moneys on the voice...........and my minds on the BOD!!!!!!!!

DL

PHILADELPHIA & NEW ORLEANS : Review by Lynn WILLIAMSON

Leee - loved the outfits, liked the choice of songs, he added a bit of sparkle to his performance as well. I agree with a couple of people on the forum, he has sung both songs without using his full vocal range. I'm looking forward to a faster number as I believe we've got the best of him to come yet. He also seems to be one of the most confident in his performance

PHILADELPHIA

'Betcha by Golly WoW' LEEE JOHN PASSES ROUND 3

Well, Leee touched the sky in Phily, singing 'Betcha by golly wow' made famous by the Stylistics this old Greed classis suited Leee's high voice. He sang it spot on, technically and emotionally he touched the spines of the crowd in Phily and they loved it. Peter Cox singing the Billy Paul classic 'Me and Miss Jones' got most votes. Gina and Elkie will have to wait and see , next Friday in Detroit!

The show : review by D. Rowles our correspondent in Philadelphia

Hi everyone,

Tony sang "If You Don't Know Me By Now" and I thought he was nervous going into it, but got much stronger towards the end. Elkie - same way.

Leee did "Betcha By Golly Wow" and was smoothly stunning. The crowd loved him. I think that Peter and Sonia also gave very strong performances last night.

I did a spot with Davina after Elkie's performance. I meant to say I fancied Haydon more.... in terms of physical admiration anyway, but it's true that I felt Peter had a slightly stronger performance. Unfortunately when the production assistant asked us to move so that we could be on with Davina, I had informed her we no longer had voting devices. She said she'd sort that out for us, but didn't. So, I didn't get to vote but it was safe for Leee anyway. Nearly no one in the audience knew of Imagination when Davina talked to us off camera - but I had taken some records and handed up the 12" of "Changes" for her to show the crowd and show off some amazing Imagination outfits.

After the show I had some information for Leee he'd requested and he gave me some promo pictures as well as signing the 3 records I'd broght along (his solo single "Rock Me Slow", "Changes" which was the first Imagination record I ever bought - introducing me to the wonders of Leee in '95, and "Sunshine") and we talked about meeting up after the show. I was SOOOOOOOOOO tired though that I didn't make it over to the hotel.

The taping lasted about 2.5 hours... though we were there 3.5 hours including waiting time before we were admitted.

What a marvellous show, I enjoyed all the acts, and Davina was great at working the crowd between segments. Thank you so very much for tipping me off about this, for I'd not have heard of it except perhaps after the fact - which would have been especially disturbing. I was fearful that as a TV taping it would be very long and drawn out like others I'd attended, but this was well done and quite professional. There must have been 5 or 6 mobile units of TV equipment out on the surrounding streets, perhaps as many as 10. It was quite well set up save for the initial admission procedures.

From talking with Leee it was clear that the pace and activities of this jaunt are taxing. I think he might be enjoying a well deserved day of rest today before they board the bus again on Sunday Detroit-bound.

Kind wishes from David

This was David's last report, thx a lot David for al this insight information , very catchy and respectful, as always!!

FLASHBACK TO NEW ORLEANS

In the edition of 'NOW' magazine , Saturday 15th March, there was a 4 page spread on Reborn in the USA looking back at the first few weeks and the whole 'drama' between Dollar and Sonia and a nice interview (with picture) of Peter Cox. Also , they interviewed (and photographed) some of the Americans who had seen the show , here's what they had to say :

Message from Leee

Spending a great time in Philadelphia. I want you to know that I am not all pleased with the whole 'situation', apparently a lot of 'manipulation' has been going on. I made this clear to the persons involved. Anyway, we should rise above and do our thing. Visited the famous Gamble and Huff Studios, the sound of Philly (Three Degrees,TSOP,...) such 'soulful' history. In the studios with me , besides the legendary producers were Tony Hadley (Chairman of the Board), Michelle Gayle and Elkie Brooks. We all sang 'Love Train' and it was filmed by ITV and this should be aired on Saturday. I'm spending a lot of time with Tony who is great company.

We moved to another hotel as we went 'on strike' because the first hotel booked was simply told, 'terrible' and we made it clear that this was not to be.

Well, that's about it, greetings from Philly where I had a great time meeting David Rowles, an american fan , we talked , sang and had a lot of fun. David will come and see the show tomorrow, 4.30pm. By the way, Hayden is gettin' a lot of whistles from the american youngsters.

That's it for now,

Ciao

Leee

News from Philadelphia by David Rowles:

Hi Pat... it's late... and I'm just back from Center City Philadelphia were the Reborn in the USA performers are staying now at a different hotel. Apparently their complaints got them in nicer quarters. I was told that the crew is staying elsewhere, at a much more flashy hotel - but that part of the premise of the show is to have the performers "roughing it".

I do believe most of them were there, but I only really talked to Gina G (I know what she's singing on Friday!) and the guy from Ultimate Kaos. Leee took us over to chat with them. When they were wrapping up their dinner, we went back over to see Leee..... and had some nice conversation and he sang, sang, sang, sang! Many of my Imagination favorites were belted out - In the Heat of the Night (I asked for that amazing bridge), Found My Girl, Blue Day Gone, Don't Look Back..... my gosh so many! And Chains! I did try to start him off on Sunshine but it didn't work so well.... and I was treated to a few bars of my ever standing favourite Trilogy. Leee didn't want to touch too much on the depressing songs.

It was just a joy to meet this amazing artist and person I so admired. I felt so privileged to be there at the hotel's pub chatting with and singing along with and being audience to the incredible Leee John. I'm very very anxious to go to the show on Friday. Leee has insisted I be in the first two rows to be assured a vote.

Good night!

David

Hello from Philadelphia by David Rowles

They all arrived today in Philadelphia after a few days on the road. Leee's a bit tired of the travel, I believe - but I hope that my city will treat him well.

He wanted you to know he's arrived safe and sound.

Hotel: Society Hill Hotel. He wanted to know what's fun to do here and I'll be passing along this information.

He described himself as doing something for press when we spoke.... then a dress rehearsal, the show on Friday, and I think Saturday night they're on their way again.

When Leee asked what time I was off from work, I told him 4pm, but that my job was very flexible with me... and when I showed my boss my Trilogy CD, she encouraged me to leave early Friday for the show. Leee said to bring my boss along!

That's it for now -

David

Message from Philladelphia from David Rowles

Hello all,

I had two calls at work this morning - one from the marketing director for the Philadelphia Convention & Visitor Bureau (she was the one who wrote that press release I sent you the link for) and another from the marketing director for the theater where Leee will be performing on Friday.

My tickets are taken care of!

Leee and I were to talk this morning - I did call, but he was likely out having breakfast or having fun with his travelling bunch.

So, I don't know too much more just now... only that I'm leaving work early on Friday to be at that show!!! Leee thought showing up at 4 would be the right thing to do, and lo and behold they're opening the doors for the audience at 4:30 so that works perfectly. I may even book a hotel downtown. I think the gang is staying at the Westin hotel....

Thanks once more for communicating the tip....

David

Rumor has it

According to the 'Sun' , 10th March edition, Sonia is fed up and wants to return to England...

Denied by Sonia's managment : although disappointed , she is carrying on! Good for her!

NEW ORLEANS

LEEE PASSES 1st ROUND

LEEE through to the second round, a beautiful rendition of 'Unforgettable' was well received by an enthusiastic New Orleans crowd.

Sonia and Dollar are up for elimination, UK viewers will decide who will be voted off next Friday in Philadelphia before the second show will take place.

Mark Shaw replaced

On Thursday Mark Shaw was replaced by 'Go West' frontman Peter Cox. 'Go West' enjoyed a string of hits in the eighties and Peter is still performing live and writing music.

He has an important following in the UK and is also known in the States where he is working regurlarly, a strong 'live' performer joined the group.

Leee thinks highly of Peter, 'a strong vocalist added to the group'

Peter has the disadvantage to sing the tracks that Mark Shaw selected for New Orleans AND Philadelphia.

Tonight is the night, Leee and the distinguished company will be singing live in front of a New Orleans audience , the two who will receive the least votes will be up for elimination next week before the show in Philadelphia, depending on the ITV1 (UK) public who will be voting one out or rather off!

Reborn exit

MARK SHAW , frontman of Then Jerico, leaves the show. 'Reborn in the USA' gets huge press coverage and a lot of Tv plugs. Check out our 'Press review' end of the week

On departure of Mark Shaw, Leee :

'it's a pity that he has left, he was a swell guy'

Mardi Grass party

Message from Leee :

'arrived safely, visiting New Orleans, celebrating Mardi Grass, good fun , good company a lot of rehearsals , costumes look fab!'  

USA Arrival

The participants flew to the USA : first stop : NEW ORLEANS.

The Show in New Orleans will be aired on Saturday 08th March , ITV1

Nicolas Steinberg, Series Producer says :

‘For the first time ever we have a reality entertainment show where the famous participants are using the very skill which made them famous in the first place. 10 performers have been chosen for their unique voices which range from the pure falsetto of Leee John to the rich gravelly tones of Elkie Brooks. Combine this with the added attraction of seeing 10 performers and their egos travelling around a foreign country, the series promises to be a bumpy ride.’

Reborn In The USA is a Granada Production for ITV1. The series producers are Nicholas Steinberg and Jeremy Phillips. The series director is Jonathan Bullen. The Executive Producer is Nigel Hall.

PRESS RELEASE - GRANADA Prod. -

1. Introduction

Ten talented singers, one American road trip of a lifetime.

Their only aim is to re-kindle the musical fame that has eluded them since their last chart topper, giving them the chance to hit the big time all over again.

Travelling around the USA in their tour bus, they will stop off at a different city each week performing in front of a local crowd. Proving popular with the American crowd will ensure a spot on the bus to the next city , however the two performers with the least number of votes will be subjected to a head to head battle. The outcome will be decided by the British public who will get the opportunity to vote for their favourite performer over the next week.

2. Participants

- Imagination's flamboyant front man, it's no illusion it's LEEE JOHN
- She' the true pearl of Britain's singing elite ELKIE BROOKS
- Oh, ah just a little bit it's former British Eurovision entry GINA G
- The baby of the group, Ultimate Kaos' one time child star HAYDON ESHUN
- Back together again sensational 80's disco duo Dollar (- DAVID VAN DAY, - THEREZE BAZAR)
- The wild man of rock, former 'Then Jerico ' frontman MARK SHAW
- Former Eastenders starlet, her sweetness is our weakness, MICHELLE GAYLE
- We'll never stop loving her .... Liverpool singing sensation SONIA
- 'New romantic' pioneer with a voice that's pure gold it's TONY HADLEY

3. Procedure

They will all live together on thier tour bus as they move from city to city. Not only will they have to put up with each other but they'll have to put on a show winning performance, at every venue to ensure their place on the bus is safe.

An auditorium in each of the cities will be filled with a local audience and it will be up to them to vote for their favourite, keeping them safely on the bus for another week. Davina will also reveal the two acts who have failed to entice the US audience. These two will battle it out for the affections and vote of the British viewer.

4. Cities - TV Show

NEW ORLEANS
PHILADELPHIA
DETROIT
MEMPHIS
NASHVILLE
CLEVELAND
NEW YORK

To add a local flavour to each show, each artist will be covering a tune relating to the sounds of the city, bringing their own style to the performance.

On ITV1 Davina McCall will be reporting back with the latest developments from the city of the week. Who will be the first to spin out of controll, who's just along for the ride and most importantly who's screeched to a halt.