Chesney Hawkes, best known for his 1991 hit 'The One and Only', has opened up about his career and personal life in a recent interview. The singer, now 53, reflects on the whirlwind of fame that followed the song's release, which topped the UK charts for five weeks. Despite being dismissed as a one-hit wonder, Hawkes has come to appreciate the record's lasting impact.
Hawkes describes the hysteria surrounding his early fame as 'unnatural', recalling how he had to be smuggled out of his house in the boot of his mother's car to avoid paparazzi. He struggled with the loss of privacy and freedom, unable to enjoy typical rites of passage like his friends. The singer also faced physical confrontations from strangers, leading him to hire a bodyguard named Geronimo.
Growing up in a musical family, Hawkes was exposed to the industry from a young age. His father, Len Hawkes, was a member of the Tremeloes, and his mother, Carol Dilworth, was an actor. Their home was often filled with musicians, including Gerry Marsden and members of the Searchers and Herman's Hermits. Hawkes describes his upbringing as 'pretty wild', with his mother proudly displaying a topless photoshoot on the wall.
After the success of 'The One and Only', Hawkes was dropped by his record label at age 23 when his follow-up singles failed to match its success. He recalls the sudden loss of support from industry contacts, which deeply affected his self-belief. However, he has since found a new audience performing at nostalgia gigs and tours.
Hawkes is set to release his first album in a decade, 'Living Arrows', on 28 March. He now lives in Los Angeles with his wife, Kristina, and their three children. Reflecting on his career, Hawkes says he can now appreciate that 'The One and Only' is a great record, and he has embraced his status as a one-hit wonder.
