Barry's In Dreams as Roy
From the RAF to Roy Orbison – a change in career has done no harm for Halesowen performer Barry Steele who is about to embark on a European tour. From the RAF to Roy Orbison – a change in career has done no harm for Halesowen performer Barry Steele who is about to embark on a European tour. The 51-year-old has left behind his former work as a driver in the RAF and as a truck driver to take the stage as his alter ego. And his singing efforts have paid off – as he has just bagged a part in a touring show which stops off in Birmingham this week. It all started when he took part in a talent competition while he was enjoying a holiday in Cornwall. He sang a Robbie Williams song but when one of the other competitors said he sounded just like Roy Orbison he thought he would have a go as The Big O, whose hits include Only The Lonely and In Dreams. Read the full story in the Express & Star.
The 51-year-old has left behind his former work as a driver in the RAF and as a truck driver to take the stage as his alter ego.
And his singing efforts have paid off – as he has just bagged a part in a touring show which stops off in Birmingham this week. It all started when he took part in a talent competition while he was enjoying a holiday in Cornwall.
He sang a Robbie Williams song but when one of the other competitors said he sounded just like Roy Orbison he thought he would have a go as The Big O, whose hits include Only The Lonely and In Dreams.
That was six years ago and in 2004 he gave up his career as a truck driver to go professional. He hasn't looked back and already toured New Zealand.
"I have always loved his music since I was a child," he said. "I started to perform in some of the local clubs including places such as The Gig- mill in Stourbridge, and it all just went from there. I can't believe how far I have come.
"I always been quite a shy person but when I put on the wig and the glasses you can hide behind his character which makes it easier for me."
To help get into character Barry watches DVDs of the singer. "They help me practice how to talk like him and learn the lyrics," he says.
He credits his success to his wife who he says has worked effortlessly to promote him.
"I wouldn't have got here if it wasn't for her. Touring New Zealand as part of a Beatles and Roy Orbison tour was just fantastic."
His latest show, Rockin on Heaven's Door features tribute acts including Buddy Holly, and Elvis among others. It stops off at the Alexander Theatre on April 22 and there are even suggestions it may be taken to Japan.
Barry was signed up after the producers went to see his show and asked them to take part.
He added: "It was a massive buzz to be asked to take part in the show, I did the first one last week and it's so exciting. I know it sounds really spiritual but I just get this feeling like he is taking over me when I go on stage. I never had the nerve to get on stage until I started performing as Roy Orbison."
