Peak UK Chart Position: #14 in January 1988.

Garry Christian, Liverpool-born founding member and frontman of soul group The Christians, celebrates his 62nd birthday today. Together with brothers Russell and Roger, he appeared on the BBC’s Opportunity Knocks in 1974, with them billed as Natural High. Fast-forward ten years, and the three formed The Christians with Henry Priestman (middle name Christian, conveniently). They scored two top ten hits, one being part of the charity ensemble formed to raise money for the Hillsborough disaster in 1989; alongside Paul McCartney, Gerry Marsden, Holly Johnson, and Stock Aitken Waterman on the chart-topping remake of “Ferry ‘Cross The Mersey”.

Quick facts:

• “Ideal World” was their fourth top forty hit in the UK, peaking at number 14 on its seventh week in the chart.
• It was followed by what was their biggest hit in their own right: a number eight peak for their version of the Isley Brothers’ “Harvest For The World”.
• Their 2015 album “We” was crowdfunded by their loyal fanbase, with the band presiding over production duties.
• Garry Christian is the only original member still performing with the group, who are currently on the road as part of their 30th Anniversary Tour.

Back to another vintage Top of the Pops performance here, this one from 21st January 1988, with The Christians amongst a line-up that included Bros, Joyce Sims, and Dollar. It seems to be a version of the track that was re-recorded just for the show.