Bonnie Tyler, the Welsh singer celebrated for her powerful, rasping vocals and international hits, has died at the age of 75. Her distinctive voice, often likened to that of Rod Stewart, became the hallmark of her successful career.
Tyler's breakthrough came with the 1983 release of "Total Eclipse of the Heart," written and produced by Jim Steinman, who was also instrumental in Meat Loaf's career. The song, accompanied by an elaborate music video, became a global phenomenon, reaching number one in both the UK and the US. It sold over six million copies worldwide and earned Tyler two Grammy nominations. The album "Faster Than The Speed of Night," featuring the hit, also set a record, with Tyler becoming the first woman to debut at number one on the UK Albums Chart.
Another major hit, "Holding Out For A Hero," also penned by Steinman, further cemented her status as a rock anthem singer in the 1980s.
Born Gaynor Hopkins in a small Welsh village near Swansea in June 1951, Tyler was one of six children. She began her singing career in local clubs before being discovered and signing with RCA records. Her early single "More Than A Lover" was notably banned by ITV for being too provocative. Her first major hit single, "Lost In France," from her 1977 album "The World Starts Tonight," gained significant promotion and reached the Top Ten, aided by support from Radio 1 DJ Simon Bates.
A persistent sore throat led to nodules on her vocal cords, requiring surgery. While recovering, her voice naturally changed, becoming huskier. This newfound rasp was embraced and contributed to her unique sound, which she saw as a compliment when compared to Rod Stewart.
Throughout her career, Tyler maintained a grounded persona, eschewing the excesses of rock stardom. She was married to Robert Sullivan for over 50 years, whom she met at age 18. He was a constant presence in her life, traveling with her on tour as per a pact they made early in her career. She preferred modest pleasures, such as meals with friends, over wild parties and never took drugs, opting instead for an energy drink and a single shot of Jack Daniels before performances.
Despite her global success, Tyler remained deeply attached to her Welsh roots. She was honored with an MBE in 2023 and received honorary degrees from Cardiff University and Swansea University. She and Robert Sullivan did not have children but she was a devoted aunt and godmother.
Tyler passed away following emergency intestinal surgery in May at a hospital near Faro, Portugal, where she had a second home.