Peter Allen: The Life of a Pop Icon
If you’re a fan of upbeat hits, flamboyant performances, and colorful personalities, then you’re no stranger to Peter Allen. This Australian singer-songwriter isn’t just known for his impressive discography, but also for his glittering stage presence, showmanship, and captivating personality. Allen was one of Australia’s most successful exports to the United States, and his flamboyant personality and high-energy stage shows earned him a legion of fans all over the world. In this article, we’ll delve into some of the most interesting facts about Peter Allen.
The Early Life of Peter Allen
Peter Allen was born Peter Richard Woolnough on February 10, 1944, in Tenterfield, New South Wales, Australia. He was the second youngest of seven children and grew up in a tightly-knit family. His parents, Marion and Richard Woolnough, owned a small seasonal resort in nearby Lismore, where the entire family pitched in to help.
Peter showed an interest in music from an early age, and his mother taught him to play the piano. He left school at age 15 and began performing in local clubs and hotels, honing his skills as a musician and vocalist. By age 18, he had formed a band called The Allen Brothers, and they traveled around the country performing in clubs and hotels.
Peter Allen’s Relationships and Children
Peter Allen was married twice during his lifetime. His first marriage was to Liza Minnelli, the famous American singer, and actress, in 1967. The couple had a brief and tumultuous marriage, which ended in divorce just seven years later. However, the two remained close friends until Allen’s death in 1992.
After his divorce, Allen began a relationship with fashion designer, Gregory Connell. The couple was together for over a decade, and the relationship was a significant influence on Allen’s songwriting. Allen dedicated his hit song “I Still Call Australia Home” to Connell after they parted ways.
Peter Allen had no biological children, but he helped raise Liza Minnelli’s two children, Lorna and Joey, after the couple’s divorce.
Peter Allen’s Height and Physical Appearance
Peter Allen was not a tall man, standing at just 5’8″ (173cm). However, what he lacked in height, he made up for in energy, charisma, and stage presence. He was a flamboyant performer, known for his glittering outfits, high-energy dance moves, and engaging personality.
Peter Allen’s Career
Peter Allen’s career spanned over two decades, and he left a significant mark on the music industry. His early years were spent touring Australia with his band The Allen Brothers, but he soon caught the attention of major record labels. He signed with A&M Records in 1971 and released his debut album “Tenterfield Saddler” in 1972. The album received critical acclaim and set the stage for the rest of his career.
Allen’s music was known for its upbeat tempos, catchy hooks, and sing-along choruses. His stage performances were just as famous as his music, and he was known for his high-energy dance moves, glittering costumes, and engaging personality. Allen became a regular performer on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and he also made numerous appearances on other television shows, including Donny and Marie, American Bandstand, and Saturday Night Live.
Peter Allen’s Top Songs
Peter Allen was a prolific songwriter, and his music covered a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, and jazz. Some of his most popular songs include:
- Tenterfield Saddler
- I Go To Rio
- Everything Old is New Again
- Don’t Cry Out Loud
- Bi-Coastal
Peter Allen’s Net Worth
At the time of his death in 1992, Peter Allen’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million. This came from his successful music career, as well as his television appearances and various investments.
Frequently Asked Questions about Peter Allen
Who are some of Peter Allen’s influences?
Peter Allen’s musical influences were wide-ranging and included artists from different genres and eras. He was inspired by artists such as Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, and Bob Dylan.
What inspired Peter Allen’s hit song “I Go To Rio”?
“I Go To Rio” was inspired by Allen’s trip to Brazil, where he performed at the famous Maracanã Stadium. The song became one of his most popular hits, and its catchy lyrics and upbeat melody ensured its place in pop music history.
What was Peter Allen’s most successful album?
Peter Allen’s most successful album was “Bi-Coastal,” which was released in 1980. The album reached number 37 on the Billboard 200 chart and spawned two top-40 hits, “Fly Away” and “I Still Call Australia Home.”
What was Peter Allen’s favorite song to perform live?
Peter Allen had many favorite songs that he loved to perform live, but he always enjoyed performing “I Go To Rio.” The song was an upbeat anthem that got the crowd on their feet and had become one of his trademark songs.
What was Peter Allen’s relationship like with Liza Minnelli after their divorce?
Peter Allen and Liza Minnelli remained close friends after their divorce. In fact, they continued to collaborate on music and even performed together throughout their careers. Allen dedicated many of his songs to Minnelli, including “I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love” and “Quiet Please, There’s a Lady On Stage.”
Did Peter Allen ever perform in Australia?
Yes, Peter Allen returned to Australia in the late 1970s and early 1980s and performed to sell-out audiences. He was always proud of his Australian roots and often sang about his love for his home country in his music.
Did Peter Allen ever act in movies or TV shows?
Yes, Peter Allen appeared in several movies and television shows throughout his career. He had small roles in films such as “All That Jazz” and “The Boy from Oz,” and he also made numerous television appearances on shows such as The Muppet Show, The Love Boat, and Magnum, P.I.
Did Peter Allen ever win any awards for his music?
Yes, Peter Allen won numerous awards throughout his career, including a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance for his song “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do).” He was also inducted into the Australian Recording Industry Association’s Hall of Fame in 1992.
What was Peter Allen’s most famous stage performance?
Peter Allen’s most famous stage performance was his 1980 concert at New York’s Radio City Music Hall, which was recorded and released as a live album. The concert featured some of his most popular songs and was a testament to his skills as a performer.
What was Peter Allen’s contribution to the music industry?
Peter Allen was a prolific songwriter, performer, and musician who left an indelible mark on the music industry. His upbeat melodies, catchy hooks, and engaging performances earned him a legion of fans all over the world and paved the way for many other artists.
Did Peter Allen play any instruments?
Yes, Peter Allen was an accomplished pianist and often played the instrument during his live performances. He also played guitar and harmonica on some of his albums.
What was Peter Allen’s favorite album?
Peter Allen had many albums that he loved, but he often cited “Bi-Coastal” as his favorite. The album marked a significant turning point in his career and included some of his most popular songs.
Did Peter Allen ever collaborate with other artists?
Yes, Peter Allen collaborated with many other artists throughout his career, including Olivia Newton-John, Melissa Manchester, and Carole Bayer Sager. He also wrote a number of songs for other artists, including “Don’t Cry Out Loud” for Melissa Manchester.
What was Peter Allen’s last performance?
Peter Allen’s last known performance was at the Time-Life Building in New York City on October 22, 1992. He performed a short set of his songs and appeared to be in good spirits.
What was Peter Allen’s cause of death?
Peter Allen died on June 18, 1992, at the age of 48, from complications due to AIDS. His death was a significant loss to the music industry, and he was remembered by his fans as a talented musician and performer.
What was Peter Allen’s legacy?
Peter Allen’s legacy includes his impressive discography, his high-energy performances, and his enduring impact on the music industry. He was known as a flamboyant performer with a heart of gold and a talent that won over audiences all over the world. His music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans old and new alike, and his legacy lives on.
Remembering Peter Allen
Peter Allen’s contributions to the music industry and his larger-than-life personality continue to be celebrated by fans and artists alike. His music remains timeless, with songs like “I Go To Rio” and “Everything Old is New Again” still capturing the hearts of listeners around the world.
Allen’s influence on pop culture is immeasurable. His unique blend of pop, rock, and jazz, coupled with his unforgettable stage presence, set him apart as a true icon. His performances were not just concerts, but experiences that left audiences in awe of his talent and charisma.
Through the ups and downs of his personal life, including his relationships with Liza Minnelli and Gregory Connell, Allen’s music remained a constant source of inspiration and expression. His ability to channel his emotions into his songs allowed listeners to connect with him on a profound level.
As we reflect on the life and career of Peter Allen, we are reminded of the power of music to touch our souls and transcend generations. His legacy lives on through his songs, which continue to bring joy and inspiration to people from all walks of life.
Final Words
Peter Allen’s journey from a small town in Australia to the global stage is a testament to his talent, determination, and the universal appeal of his music. He will forever be remembered as a pop icon who left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
Whether you’re dancing to the infectious rhythm of “I Go To Rio” or finding comfort in the heartfelt lyrics of “I’d Rather Leave While I’m In Love,” Peter Allen’s music lives on, reminding us to embrace life with passion, courage, and a touch of theatrical flair.
In the end, it’s not just the melodies and lyrics that Peter Allen left behind, but a legacy of joy, authenticity, and the belief that music has the power to unite us all.
