Step into a musical journey...The full story

Andrew grew up in Hinckley, Leicestershire and has always had a love of music which goes back to watching his father perform as a bass guitarist in a number of well known Midlands bands in the 1960s, 70s and 80s.

At the age of 16, Andrew  joined his first band, taking on the role of drummer alongside two of his school friends. Although the band's journey was short-lived, it ignited Andrew's passion for music. After completing college, he ventured into the world of entertainment as a resident DJ at renowned hotels like DeVere, Best Western, Britannia, and The Queens Moat House. His exceptional skills led him to entertain corporate clients, including prestigious names like Cooper and Lybrand and The News Corporations Sun Newspaper.

 

During the early 1990s, the UK experienced a karaoke craze that swept through the nation. Andrew became an integral part of the 'Karaoke Krew,' providing karaoke nights at numerous entertainment venues, including the popular Superbowls operated by 'Northern Leisure'.

In 1993 with fellow musician Mark Waldron of MDM Entertainment (Now Eclipse Entertainment) they formed a 'disco duo' called 'The Smartease', their name derived from the free and easy style. The duo were popular with audiences mainly due to their unique style of dressing up to impersonate the original artist of the songs they performed in a comedy style and singing the latest hits of the time. The duo soon began to perform at larger entertainment venues including 'Turners Musical Merry-Go-Round' in Northampton.  ​

 

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The Smartease

In 1994, Andrew and Mark took a bold step into the spotlight by performing at the prestigious Trevor George Entertainment Showcase held at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay, Devon. Their high-energy performance captured the attention of the Bourne Leisure Group, who were scouting fresh talent for a new entertainment concept at one of Europe’s largest holiday destinations — Haven Devon Cliffs in Exmouth.

What followed was a summer residency that became part of a pioneering show called ‘Chaos’, inspired by the hit TV series Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush hosted by Chris Evans. The show was a fast-paced fusion of live music, stand-up comedy, gameshow segments, and party dances, performed across three stages to keep audiences constantly engaged and guessing.

As a duo, Andrew and his musical partner had the honour of supporting and performing alongside an impressive lineup of legendary artists. Their journey saw them share the stage with Eurovision royalty including 1981 winners Bucks Fizz and 1976 champions Brotherhood of Man. Their live experience also included working alongside celebrated acts such as The Nolans, The Drifters, Sheila Ferguson of The Three Degrees, The Barron Knights, and Candlewick Green — each collaboration offering a new layer of inspiration and adding depth to their evolving musical artistry.

 

Music Promotional Work and Away From Music

In the summer of 1995, through a connection with Des Dyer of 70s band Jigsaw, Andrew became involved in promoting a fresh re-recording of their classic hit Sky High for Love This Records via Pitstop Promotions.

Des was performing Lon the same club circuit locally as part of the musical comedy duo Fingers n Fumbs alongside Steve Fearn, they introduced Andrew to the project just as Des joined forces with legendary producer Mike Stock at Love This Records (Stock, Aitken & Waterman fame).

The reimagined Sky High was released under the name Newton, and its infectious energy struck a chord with audiences. The track made several entries into the UK Official Singles Chart, reaching No. 78, No. 56, and No. 76 during its run — a testament to the enduring appeal of this pop classic.

Following several exciting years performing as part of the high-energy duo Smartease and promoting singles for respected labels, Andrew took his next creative leap into forming a male vocal trio. They recorded a collection of vibrant tracks, including a dance-driven reworking of Sky High and a soulful rendition of The Real Thing’s timeless hit You To Me Are Everything.

 

Although Andrew continued with occasional one-off live performances he also embarked on a professional career outside of music. However, as music streaming services gained popularity, Andrew embraced this new era and wholeheartedly immersed himself in becoming a Playlist Curator. With his profound knowledge spanning across diverse music genres, Andrew curated playlists that became a magnet for a vast and dedicated following. 

 

Odessa Mama Records /DWP Records Australia
​Andrew established a social media presents to promote his curator playlists and it was one social media post in particular that grabbed the attention of record producer David Wilks of DWP records on the opposite side of the globe in Australia. Andrew wanted to create pop music to promote through his blog and David knew he had just the right track.

In April 2021, the single 'When I'm With You' was released.  An original song written by David Wilks of DWP Records / Odessa Mama Records, Australia, the release was in a classic 'Stock, Aitken and Waterman' (PWL) 80's pop style.  'When I'm With You' was very popular with DJ's at the 2022 Sakgra Remix reaching the Top 11 in the Digital DJ Pool Download Chart. 

​The follow up single 'Everyone Wins' also an original track written by David Wilks in more of a classic 80s funk jam style was released in July 2021.

Crazy Dog Records

At the start of 2022, Andrew Nolan began an exciting new chapter in his musical journey through a creative collaboration with local musician, songwriter, and producer David ‘Buzz’ Buswell. Sharing a deep passion for music, the partnership evolved alongside the launch of David’s independent label, Crazy Dog Records. David’s impressive credentials — including co-writing the Heritage Chart-topping hit ‘Fallout’ for iconic 80s band Tight Fit.

 

Andrew’s first release under Crazy Dog Records was a cover of Bucks Fizz’s Every Dream Has Broken, written by Andy Hill. Although the original track was never released as a single by the band, Andrew gave it a fresh spotlight, with production by Dave Buswell and high-energy remixes by Sakis Gravvanis. The single dropped in September 2022, marking a bold and emotional reintroduction to the pop classic.

Crazy Dog Records followed up with a retro-inspired ballad release — a double AA-side single featuring I Need Your Love and If You're Right.

Love Fire and Vital Signs

'Love Fire' is a high-energy pop anthem originally released by Jigsaw in 1976. Written by Des Dyer and Clive Scott as the follow-up to their massive hit Sky High. Scott and Dyer’s songwriting legacy includes hits recorded by Boyzone, Nicki French, Bad Boys Inc., and Saint Etienne. Des Dyer has also worked alongside legendary hitmakers Mike Stock and Matt Aitken of Stock, Aitken & Waterman, known for chart-toppers with Robson & Jerome and many others. Notably, Des has also taken a turn on the Eurovision stage, competing to represent the UK.

 

The second track, Vital Signs, is a standout co-write with internationally acclaimed songwriter Gordon Pogoda — the creative force behind some of the most memorable songs featured in hit films and TV series such as Hannah Montana, CSI: Miami, Will & Grace, Sex and the City, ER, Bridesmaids, and Little Miss Sunshine. Gordon has also penned hits for beloved UK pop artists including Steps, Sonia, Tight Fit, and Nicki French.

The track's music was written and produced by Sakis Gravvanis (Sakgra), who previously brought his signature style to Andrew’s singles When I’m With You and Every Dream Has Broken through his dynamic remixes. Together, this international team delivers a polished pop gem packed with emotion, melody, and irresistible hooks.

 

Collaboration with Jazzi P

In July 2023, Crazy Dog Records proudly announced Andrew Nolan’s next single, Heartache and Lonely, would feature a special collaboration with legendary rapper Jazzi P. Known for her iconic appearance on the 1991 UK Top 10 Stock, Aitken & Waterman hit Shocked alongside Kylie Minogue, Jazzi P brings her unmistakable energy and lyrical flair to this dynamic pop-rap track. The collaboration marked a powerful fusion of nostalgic pop and contemporary flair, making it a standout moment in Andrew’s growing discography.

 

The singles 'Everything You Need' and 'Give Your Heart This Christmas'

After a brief break, Andrew sought the expertise of David Wilks, the writer behind his first singles "When I'm With You" and "Everyone Wins." Andrew was eager for David contribute to his debut album being instrumental to his first singles. 'Everything You Need' was confirmed for release in September 2024 under the banner DWP Records Europe.  A festive track 'Give Your Heart This Christmas' was also released in December 2024. Andrew was honoured to have the song featured on BBC Introducing East Midlands, a proud moment that capped off an exciting year of music

 

What's been happening in 2025...

Andrew kicked off the year with Gotta Pull Myself Together, a bold and vibrant cover of the Nolans’ classic hit produced by David Wilks at DWP Records. Interestingly, Andrew and David had long discussed covering a track by the Nolans, but had held off, unsure whether it would feel too on-the-nose given Andrew’s own surname. However, they eventually embraced the idea, choosing to celebrate the legacy of classic pop with a fresh take on a lesser-covered gem from the Nolans' catalogue and captured the essence of the original video as part of the release.

 

Singles with Crazy Dog Records

Andrew’s long-standing connection with Des Dyer of the legendary British band Jigsaw and Steve Fearn of Fearns Brass Foundry led to an exciting collaboration with Crazy Dog Records. Honoured to be entrusted with brand-new material from such respected musicians, Andrew released two powerful singles that highlight both his vocal range and emotional delivery.

The first release, 'I Don’t Wanna Be In Love Again' waswritten by Des Dyer and Steve Fearn and It was quickly followed by 'My Promise', a timeless wedding anthem penned by Steve Fearn, celebrating love, devotion, and new beginnings.

Together, these singles mark an important chapter in Andrew’s career, combining his artistry with the songwriting legacy of two iconic figures in British music.

 

The Album & Key Decisions

With several singles already released, Andrew had more than enough material to put together an album. However, he was determined that his debut album should feel fresh, not simply a collection of previously released tracks. After careful consideration, the decision was made to keep the DWP Records releases separate from his work with Crazy Dog Records.

Andrew will continue to release singles through DWP Records, but the focus is now firmly set on his debut album with Crazy Dog Records. This marks an exciting new chapter in his musical journey,  one driven by originality, creativity, and a clear vision for the future.

The album with a working title 'Broken Dreams' will feature the singles;  Love Fire, Vital Signs, Every Dream Has Broken, Heartache and Lonely, I Need Your Love, I Don't Wanna Be In Love Again and My Promise as well as a number of new unheard tracks.

Musical Influences

Andrew describes his musical taste as truly eclectic, drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres and eras. His sound is shaped by the classic pop brilliance of Stock, Aitken & Waterman, the timeless soul of Motown, and iconic hits from the 60s and 70s, including artists like The Fortunes, The Searchers, The Real Thing, The Drifters, and Jigsaw. He’s also heavily influenced by the vibrant energy of 80s and 90s pop, citing favourites such as Erasure, Bucks Fizz, and St Etienne.

 

We invite you to join us on this remarkable musical journey with Andrew Nolan, and stay tuned for more exciting updates, singles, and the highly anticipated debut album.