In 2005 Smokie could celebrate their 30th Anniversary as a band.
Smokie have gained platinum records in four decades. And sold more than 30 million CD's, records and albums.
In 2003 Smokie released the ultimate greatest hits collection. Entitled "The Hit Box" the collection consists of 10 CD's spanning the decades from the 1970's through to 2003 and gained Gold and Platinum awards throughout Scandinavia.
Smokie performs about 150-200 times a year for up to three million people.
During the year 2003 Smokie took 178 flights.
Mick was guitar technician and then stage manager with Smokie before becoming lead guitarist.
Mick worked as a plumber before entering the music business.
Steve is two times winner of the Norman Wisdom Pro-Celebrity Golf Classic.
Steve and his family now live in Spain.
Mike's real name is "Michael Richard Craft".
Before coming a fulltime musician, Mike worked with Polygram Records for 12 years promoting and marketing music.
Terry once had a job as a paperboy.
Terry started his career with a four stringed guitar as substituting for a bass.
Martin has a working background which included psychiatric nurse, civil servant, International bank management trainee and keyboard salesman.
Martin won the first Smokie Golf Classic in Ireland in 1988.
ooOoo
Car status in the year 2000 was:
Steve drove a BMW
Terry drove a Bentley
Mike drove a Mitsubishi Pajero
Mick drove a Freelander
Martin drove a Mercedes
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As you know, they NEVER sleep and they do NOT drink ;-)
But did you know, that:
Jason comes from South Africa.
Alex's nickname is "Bomber", a name that goes back to his time in the army.
Vernon has a reputation of being an excellent go-cart driver.
"Our sound is like the recipe for Kentucky Fried Chicken. It's a secret." (Mike)
"I love this life! I can't imagine doing anything else." (Steve)
"Smokie has simply never been better than today." (Terry)
"Actually it is more and more fun to play, when you get older. For the simple reason that you get better over the years." (Martin)
"No party like a Smokie party." (Martin)
"You must be mad!" (Mick about the "hardcore" fans)
ooOoo
"I have a party going on in my pants - and you are both invited..." (Anonymous, heard in Smokie circles)