Brian Connolly, the charismatic frontman of the popular glam rock band The Sweet, was a rising star with a flourishing career.
The band achieved remarkable success in the 1970s, entertaining large crowds worldwide and indulging in the perks of fame and fortune.
Andy Scott, the group’s guitarist, disclosed that The Sweet reached millionaire status at their peak in the 1970s, propelled by their 39 global hits and 13 top 20 singles in the UK, including the hit song “Blockbuster.”
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“A significant amount of money flowed through our accounts during that era. We reached millionaire status,” Scott affirmed.
However, at the time of his passing in February 1997 at 51 due to kidney and liver failure following multiple heart attacks, Brian was living in a council flat with his partner and son, relying on regular performances at Butlins to make a living, as reported by the Express.
In 1979, he departed from the band to pursue a solo career. Despite his striking presence and devoted fan base, his solo endeavors faced challenges when his singles did not chart. Additionally, a substantial tax bill from the Inland Revenue related to their hit records hit him and his former bandmates hard.
Forced to sell his home to settle the tax debt, Brian soon encountered health problems. In 1981, he was hospitalized with bloating and suffered multiple heart attacks, leading to lasting health issues including partial paralysis on his left side, which later developed into a neurological condition.
Despite his health challenges, he embarked on tours in the UK and Europe with his band, the New Sweet, starting in early 1984. Nevertheless, this endeavor was short-lived.
In July 1990, plans were in place for the band to tour Australia. However, during the lengthy flight, Brian faced health complications and was hospitalized in Adelaide for dehydration. The band proceeded with a show in Adelaide without him, indicating his declining health and resulting in the cancellation of the tour extension.
He later became a fixture on the European “oldies
