Annie Lennox is a Scottish singer-songwriter who first found success as part of the new wave band the Tourists. She went on to achieve international fame in the 1980s with her band Eurythmics, known for hits such as "Sweet Dreams", "There Must Be an Angel", and "Here Comes the Rain Again". Lennox's powerful voice and androgynous style made her a standout musical figure.
Annie Lennox's mother, Dorothy Farquharson, was born in 1930.
Annie Lennox was born in December 1954 in Aberdeen, Scotland.
Annie Lennox was born in 1954 to Thomas Allison Lennox and Dorothy Farquharson.
In 1971, Annie Lennox embarked on her musical journey by enrolling in a three-year Music Performance degree course at the prestigious Royal Academy of Music in London.
In 1976, Annie Lennox played the flute in a band called Dragon's Playground, leaving before their appearance on the television talent show "New Faces."
Annie Lennox became the lead singer of the British pop band, the Tourists, in 1977. This marked her first collaboration with Dave Stewart.
The Tourists disbanded in 1980.
Annie Lennox's androgynous look in the 1983 music video for "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)" challenged gender norms and captivated audiences. Her close-cropped, orange-colored hair, paired with a man's suit and cane, became iconic, solidifying her image as a groundbreaking artist.
In 1983, Eurythmics released the music video for "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)", which featured Annie Lennox in an androgynous look that challenged traditional gender norms.
The impact of Annie Lennox's androgynous style extended beyond music. She appeared with Boy George on the cover of Newsweek magazine's January 23, 1984, issue. The headline, "Britain Rocks America – Again," marked the Second British Invasion and highlighted their significant influence on music and culture.
Annie Lennox married German Hare Krishna devotee Radha Raman in 1984.
Eurythmics, the musical duo of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, won the MTV Video Music Award for Best New Artist in 1984.
Annie Lennox's marriage to Radha Raman ended in divorce in 1985.
In 1985, Annie Lennox was scheduled to perform at the Live Aid concert at Wembley Stadium but had to withdraw due to a severe throat infection.
Annie Lennox's father, Thomas Allison Lennox, passed away in 1986.
Annie Lennox, both solo and with the Eurythmics, has a long history of creating music videos. In 1987, the Eurythmics released the album "Savage," which was accompanied by a video album directed by Sophie Muller. One standout music video from this album was "Missionary Man," which utilized stop-motion animation and was nominated for five MTV Video Music Awards.
Eurythmics won a Grammy Award for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1987, showcasing their impact on the rock music scene.
Annie Lennox participated in the Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Concert in 1988, marking the start of her activist work.
Annie Lennox recorded a duet with Al Green titled "Put a Little Love in Your Heart" in 1988 for the film "Scrooged." The song reached high positions on music charts in the United States, Australia, and the UK.
In 1988, Annie Lennox married Israeli film and record producer Uri Fruchtmann. They resided in The Grove, Highgate. Sadly, the couple experienced the stillbirth of their son, Daniel, that same year.
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart last recorded together in 1989 before taking a break from their musical partnership.
Annie Lennox recorded a rendition of Cole Porter's "Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye" for "Red Hot + Blue," a 1990 tribute album benefiting AIDS awareness.
Annie Lennox took a break from Eurythmics in 1990 to focus on her solo career.
In June 1992, Rolling Stone magazine published a positive review of Annie Lennox's "Diva," praising its "state-of-the-art soul pop" sound.
Annie Lennox joined David Bowie and the remaining members of Queen for a powerful performance of "Under Pressure" at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert at Wembley Stadium in London in 1992.
In 1992, Annie Lennox released her debut solo album, "Diva," which achieved both commercial and critical acclaim. The album reached the top of the charts in the UK and performed well globally, including reaching number 23 in the US.
In 1992, Annie Lennox released her solo album "Diva," also accompanied by a video album directed by Sophie Muller. The music video for "Little Bird" from this album is particularly notable as it pays homage to Lennox's career through various looks from her past music videos.
Annie Lennox launched her solo career in 1992 with her debut album, "Diva," which featured hit singles like "Why" and "Walking on Broken Glass." The same year, she showcased her versatility by performing "Love Song for a Vampire" for the film "Bram Stoker's Dracula."
Annie Lennox's album "Diva" won the award for Best British Album at the 1993 Brit Awards.
Annie Lennox released her second solo album, "Medusa," in March 1995. The album, entirely composed of covers of songs originally recorded by male artists, was a commercial success, reaching number one in the UK and number eleven in the US.
In 1995, Annie Lennox released her second solo album, "Medusa," which included her renditions of popular songs like "No More 'I Love You's'" and "A Whiter Shade of Pale."
In 1996, Annie Lennox won a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her rendition of "No More 'I Love You's'."
Annie Lennox re-recorded the Eurythmics song "Angel" for the tribute album dedicated to Princess Diana in 1997.
Annie Lennox reunited with Dave Stewart in 1998, after an eight-year hiatus, to work on new music together.
In May 1999, Rolling Stone magazine included Annie Lennox's album "Diva" in their list of "Essential Recordings of the 90's."
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart donated all profits from Eurythmics' 1999 Peacetour to Amnesty International and Greenpeace, demonstrating their ongoing support for these organizations.
Eurythmics received the Brit Award for Outstanding Contribution to Music in 1999, solidifying their lasting impact on British music.
Eurythmics reunited in the late 1990s, releasing their album "Peace" in 1999. This marked their first album of new material in a decade. The duo also embarked on a concert tour, donating profits to Greenpeace and Amnesty International.
In 2000, Annie Lennox and Uri Fruchtmann divorced after 12 years of marriage.
The Eurythmics released "17 Again" in 2000, a single that charted in the UK and topped the US dance chart.
Annie Lennox received the prestigious Billboard Century Award in 2002, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions to the music industry, Annie Lennox received the Billboard Century Award in 2002, Billboard's highest honor.
Annie Lennox received the Billboard Century Award in 2002, recognizing her significant contributions to the music industry.
Annie Lennox publicly opposed the Iraq War in 2003, expressing her stance through her album "Songs of Mass Destruction" and the song "Dark Road."
Annie Lennox released her third solo album, "Bare," in 2003, which peaked at number three in the UK and number four in the US. She also embarked on her first solo tour to support the album.
Annie Lennox's mother, Dorothy Farquharson, passed away in 2003.
Annie Lennox won both an Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Original Song for "Into the West" in 2004. The song was featured in the soundtrack of the movie "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King."
Annie Lennox won an Academy Award for Best Song for "Into the West" from the film "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" in 2004.
Annie Lennox won both a Golden Globe and an Academy Award in 2004 for Best Original Song for "Into the West," which she wrote for the film "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King."
In July 2005, Annie Lennox performed at the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park, London, alongside other notable musicians.
Annie Lennox collaborated with Herbie Hancock on the song "Hush, Hush, Hush" for his album "Possibilities" in August 2005.
The Eurythmics released a new single, "I've Got a Life," in October 2005, promoting their compilation album "Ultimate Collection."
Sony BMG reissued and repackaged the Eurythmics' back catalog in November 2005, making their music available as "Deluxe Edition Reissues."
In recognition of their significant influence on the British and global music industry, Eurythmics was inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005.
Annie Lennox performed at the Live 8 concert in Hyde Park, London, in 2005.
In October 2006, Annie Lennox spoke at the British House of Commons, advocating for children in the UK to support their counterparts in Africa.
In a 2006 conversation with Melvyn Bragg, Annie Lennox voiced her criticism of how information about Iraq's alleged weapons of mass destruction was presented leading up to the war.
On April 25, 2007, Annie Lennox performed "Bridge over Troubled Water" at the "Idol Gives Back" fundraising event for the popular show American Idol.
In September 2007, Annie Lennox released "Dark Road," the first single from her album "Songs of Mass Destruction."
Annie Lennox released "Songs of Mass Destruction," her fourth solo album, in October 2007. The album was produced by Glen Ballard and marked the end of her contract with BMG.
In November 2007, Annie Lennox concluded her North American tour, "Annie Lennox Sings," which was in support of her album "Songs of Mass Destruction."
While in South Africa for the 46664 campaign in Johannesburg in December 2007, Lennox faced a lack of support from Sony BMG's regional office, who failed to promote the "Sing" project.
On December 11, 2007, Annie Lennox graced the stage at the Nobel Peace Prize Concert in Oslo, Norway. This concert, broadcast globally to over 100 countries, featured Lennox performing alongside a diverse lineup of artists.
In December 2007, Annie Lennox took a significant step in her activism by establishing The SING Campaign. This organization focuses on raising funds and increasing awareness for women and children impacted by HIV and AIDS.
Annie Lennox founded the SING campaign in 2007 to fight against the HIV/AIDS epidemic, particularly its impact on women and children in Africa.
By June 2008, Annie Lennox had sold over 80 million records globally, including her work with the Eurythmics, solidifying her status as a music icon.
Annie Lennox made an appearance at the Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday Tribute in June 2008.
By June 2008, Annie Lennox had achieved a remarkable milestone by selling over 80 million records globally, including her work with Eurythmics.
The release of Annie Lennox's compilation album, "The Annie Lennox Collection," was initially scheduled for September 2008. It was pushed back due to Lennox's back injury.
Following the release of "Songs of Mass Destruction" and "The Collection," Annie Lennox's contract with Sony BMG concluded in 2008 amidst reported tensions.
In 2008, Annie Lennox established The Circle of Women, a private charitable organization dedicated to networking and fundraising for women's projects globally.
In 2008, Annie Lennox established The Circle, a charitable organization dedicated to empowering women worldwide.
In January 2009, Annie Lennox demonstrated her commitment to peace by leading a rally in London protesting against the Gaza War.
"The Annie Lennox Collection," a compilation album by Annie Lennox, was released in the US in February 2009.
Following its US release, Annie Lennox's compilation album, "The Annie Lennox Collection," was released in the UK and Europe in March 2009.
On October 30, 2009, Annie Lennox, while wearing a "HIV positive" T-shirt, performed at the 25th Anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame concert at Madison Square Garden.
In recognition of her dedication to combating the HIV pandemic in South Africa, Annie Lennox was honored with the Peace Summit Award 2009 by the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates.
Continuing to raise awareness, Annie Lennox appeared on "The Graham Norton Show" on November 30, 2009, donning the same "HIV positive" T-shirt. During the show, she performed her new song "Full Steam", a duet with singer David Gray.
Annie Lennox met Mitch Besser, an American gynecologist who founded an AIDS charity in Africa, while fundraising in 2009.
Annie Lennox released a compilation album titled "The Annie Lennox Collection" in 2009, encompassing her successful solo career.
Annie Lennox's commitment to advocacy continued with a recorded performance for American Idol's "Idol Gives Back" fundraiser on April 21, 2010, where she again wore the "HIV positive" T-shirt.
In April 2010, Annie Lennox performed her song "Universal Child" on the TV show "American Idol Gives Back."
Annie Lennox's commitment to fighting AIDS led to her appointment as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for AIDS in June 2010, a role she continued to hold as of August 2013.
In August 2010, Annie Lennox signed a new recording contract with Island Records in the UK and Decca Records in the US, both part of the Universal Music Group.
Annie Lennox released "Universal Child," a new composition from her Christmas album "A Christmas Cornucopia," as a download-only single in October 2010.
Annie Lennox released her Christmas album, "A Christmas Cornucopia," in November 2010. It features traditional festive songs and a new composition, "Universal Child."
Annie Lennox promoted her Christmas album, "A Christmas Cornucopia," in December 2010, with performances of "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" on the UK chat show "Loose Women."
In December 2010, it was announced that Annie Lennox would be appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the New Year Honours List, recognizing her humanitarian efforts.
In 2010, The Sunday Times Rich List estimated Annie Lennox's fortune at £30 million, placing her among the wealthiest British musicians.
In March 2011, Annie Lennox brought her message of awareness to the live Comic Relief show, performing while wearing the impactful "HIV positive" T-shirt.
Annie Lennox received the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, honoring her humanitarian contributions.
The Victoria and Albert Museum in London hosted "The House of Annie Lennox," an exhibition showcasing her career milestones. It ran from September 15, 2011, to February 26, 2012.
Annie Lennox was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2011 by Queen Elizabeth II. This honor acknowledged her tireless efforts in charitable campaigns and advocacy for humanitarian causes.
The "House of Annie Lennox" exhibition at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London concluded on February 26, 2012, after a successful run.
An expanded version of "The House of Annie Lennox" exhibition opened at The Lowry in Salford, England on March 17, 2012, offering fans a more comprehensive look at her life and career.
Divorce proceedings were brought against Mitch Besser in April 2012.
Annie Lennox performed at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert in June 2012, held in front of Buckingham Palace in London.
Annie Lennox performed at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Concert in June 2012, held in front of Buckingham Palace, showcasing her musical talents for a grand celebration.
Annie Lennox and Mitch Besser married in a private ceremony in London in September 2012.
In September 2012, Annie Lennox appeared on the BBC genealogy documentary series "Who Do You Think You Are?" During the episode, she uncovered details about her family history, including her great-great-grandmother's work at the Broadford Flax Mill in Aberdeen and her maternal grandparents' connections to the Balmoral Royal Estate.
Annie Lennox graced the stage with a memorable performance of "Little Bird" during the closing ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
Annie Lennox performed her song "Little Bird" as part of a symphony of British music during the closing ceremony of the 2012 Summer Olympics in London.
The Official Charts Company declared Annie Lennox "the most successful female British artist in UK music history" in June 2013.
In June 2013, the Official Charts Company bestowed upon Annie Lennox the title of "the most successful female British artist in UK music history."
Annie Lennox continued to serve as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for AIDS.
Annie Lennox received the Music Industry Trusts Award, recognizing her significant achievements in music and her steadfast dedication to charitable causes.
In a testament to her impact, Annie Lennox received a heartfelt tribute from Archbishop Desmond Tutu in November 2013.
Annie Lennox was chosen as one of the influential British women featured in Marks & Spencer's revamped 'Leading Ladies' marketing campaign launched in March 2014.
"I Put a Spell on You," the lead single from Annie Lennox's album "Nostalgia," premiered on Ken Bruce's BBC Radio 2 show in September 2014.
Annie Lennox released her sixth solo album, "Nostalgia," in October 2014. The album features her renditions of classic soul, jazz, and blues songs.
Annie Lennox performed a live concert titled "An Evening of Nostalgia with Annie Lennox" at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles in January 2015.
"An Evening of Nostalgia with Annie Lennox," a recording of Lennox's concert at the Orpheum Theatre, aired on PBS in the US in April 2015.
The recording of Annie Lennox's "An Evening of Nostalgia with Annie Lennox" concert was released internationally on DVD and Blu-ray in May 2015.
Annie Lennox dedicated her time and talent to numerous charitable endeavors throughout 2015. She attended and performed at the 50th Amnesty International Annual Conference as a guest speaker, lent her voice to Elton John and David Furnish's at-home Gala supporting the Elton John Aids Foundation, held a screening of "He Named Me Malala," and hosted the Mothers2mothers 15th Anniversary gala.
Annie Lennox received the highest honor from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors (The Ivors Academy) in 2015 when she was made a fellow, becoming the first woman to receive this honor.
Annie Lennox was honored with the prestigious fellowship of the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors (The Ivors Academy) in 2015, becoming the first woman to receive this recognition.
In 2016, Annie Lennox's unwavering dedication was recognized with two significant awards: the Elle Style Awards 'Outstanding Achievement' award and the Royal Scottish Geographical Society's Livingstone Medal, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to combating AIDS and advocating for women's rights.
In 2017, Annie Lennox achieved another milestone by becoming the first female chancellor of Glasgow Caledonian University, a testament to her accomplishments and leadership.
In 2017, Annie Lennox received an honorary Doctorate from the Royal Academy of Music, recognizing her significant contributions to music.
In May 2019, Annie Lennox independently released "Lepidoptera," an EP featuring four improvised piano songs, alongside her art installation "Now I Let You Go..." at MASS MoCA.
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, as the duo Eurythmics, were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, as the duo Eurythmics, were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
Annie Lennox and her Eurythmics partner, Dave Stewart, received a well-deserved induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2020.
Eurythmics, the iconic duo of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, was further honored with their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Eurythmics, the iconic duo of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
Eurythmics, the iconic duo of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022.
In October 2023, Annie Lennox added her name to the Artists4Ceasefire open letter, a collective plea for a ceasefire during the Israeli bombardment of Gaza.
During the 66th Annual Grammy Awards, Annie Lennox performed Sinéad O'Connor's "Nothing Compares 2 U" as part of an in memoriam segment. In a powerful moment, she used her platform to reiterate the call for a ceasefire and "peace in the world."