Tony Mortimer, former member of 1990s boy band East 17, has returned to the stage with two DJ sets supporting D:Ream, the group behind the hit 'Things Can Only Get Better'. The 55-year-old Ivor Novello Award-winner performed in London and Leeds as a warm-up act for the band fronted by Peter Cunnah.
Mortimer, who co-wrote East 17's Christmas classic 'Stay Another Day', shared his excitement on Instagram, urging fans to join him for a 'good old rave up'. He posted a picture of himself selecting music, describing the process as 'like a Time Machine'. The song famously kept Mariah Carey's 'All I Want For Christmas Is You' off the number one spot in 1994, selling around 410,000 copies.
East 17, formed in Walthamstow, London, in 1991, sold 18 million albums worldwide. The original lineup included Mortimer, Brian Harvey, John Hendy, and Terry Coldwell. Harvey has occasionally made headlines for controversial antics, while Coldwell remains the sole original member performing at East 17 revival shows.
Mortimer, married to Tracey with two daughters, has been focusing on his health, sharing cycling and walking updates on Instagram. In April, he noted weight loss and the benefits of outdoor exercise. He has previously spoken about the emotional significance of 'Stay Another Day', which he wrote following his brother's suicide.
