Take That is a world-known boy band from Manchester, United Kingdom. The group began as a five-piece group comprising of Gary Barlow, Robbie Williams, Howard Donald, Jason Orange and Mark Owen. In the early 90s the band grew to international fame with their break out hit, “It Only Takes a Minute.” The song hit number seven in the United Kingdom before the release of their first album, Take That & Party. The album went to number one and a UK and European tour shortly followed. In 1993 the group released their sophomore album with much praise. The album, mostly written by Barlow, featured such number one hits as “Relight My Fire” and “Babe.”
The group saw their greatest success in 1995 with the release of “Nobody Else.” The album hit number one and boasted the worldwide hit, “Back for Good.” This song was the only song to show such worldwide fame, hitting number one in 31 countries. The following year Williams left the band to pursue a highly successful solo career. Take That toured in support of the album for a year before announcing their devastating break up in 1996.
In 2005 the band released a collection of greatest hits that resulted in an international tour in 2006. Take That was back. In 2006 “Beautiful World” was released. The album was the first collection of new work from the foursome. The album sold over 2.6 million copies, reaching number one on the UK charts. The group was back and continued to release music. “The Circus” was released in 2008 marking the fifth number one album for the group.
The band is currently working on their sixth studio album “Progress.” Williams announced in July 2010 he is rejoining the band that launched him into international fame. His vocals will also appear on the new album. The band will tour in 2011 in support of the new project with Take That Tickets going on sale in October 2010
Take That Facts:
- “Back for Good” has been covered by 89 artists around the world.
- The original name of Take That was “Kick It,” but the band decided to change it.
- Howard Donald was the oldest to audition for Take That, he quit his job as a vehicle painter to join the group.
Career Highlights:
- In 2009 Take That was nominated for a Brit Award for Best British Group.
- “Shine” won a Brit Award for Best British single in 2008.
- Take That’s Circus tour DVD holds the record as the UK’s fastest-selling music DVD. The Beautiful World DVD is the second fastest-selling.