Peter Noone: The Original Teen Heartthrob of the 60s

Peter Noone was one of the defining faces of the 1960s music scene as the lead vocalist of Herman’s Hermits. With his thick hair and boyish charm, he was a heartthrob of his generation, much like Justin Bieber or Harry Styles today.

But there was one notable difference that set Noone apart from today’s teen idols.

A Rising Teenage Star

With his charming looks and captivating voice, Peter Noone quickly became the face of Herman’s Hermits, turning into a teen idol almost overnight. The band found great success, touring both America and Britain and capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. Their first number-one hit in England came in 1964 with “I’m Into Something Good.”

As Noone recalled, “Herman’s Hermits sold millions of records before anyone even saw us, which just doesn’t happen now.” He often admitted that during those early years, he was still figuring things out, noting, “I didn’t know what I was doing: my stage persona was a shy little boy, which is basically what I was.”

Outselling the Beatles and Achieving Stardom

Herman’s Hermits released more than 20 hit songs, and in 1965, they even outsold The Beatles. Their biggest hits included songs like “No Milk Today,” “There’s A Kind of Hush,” and, of course, “I’m Into Something Good.” By the time Noone was just 17, the band had secured a million-dollar record deal. A memorable career highlight for Noone was when Elvis Presley covered “I’m Henry the Eighth, I Am” during a performance in 1965. Laughing about it, Noone said, “He was making fun of me, but who cares? It was Elvis!”

Living the Rocker Lifestyle

Despite his young age, Noone embraced the rocker lifestyle, though he steered clear of drugs. “That was never my thing,” he emphasized. As for other typical rock ‘n’ roll habits, Noone confessed, “Sure. We were 16, 17, staying up all night, going on rampages, and still doing interviews and gigs the next day. It was brilliant.”

Touring and Reflection

In later years, Noone returned to performing as part of Britain’s Solid Silver 60s Show, sharing the stage with artists like Brian Poole and Brian Hyland, though without his original bandmates. “You never get tired of the buzz of touring,” Noone said, adding, “and it’s good to know we can still pull an audience.”

California Life and Staying Healthy

Noone moved to California in the 70s and chose a healthier lifestyle. Reflecting on his life, he stated, “Not many people survived the debauchery of the sixties, so I feel very lucky.” He also mentioned attending Mickie Most’s funeral, realizing how few of his peers from that time were still around.

Sobriety and Family Life

At the age of 19, Noone attended his first Alcoholics Anonymous meeting with his father. Though he wouldn’t have classified himself as an alcoholic, he decided to cut back for his own well-being. Noone has been sober for over 16 years now.

Noone has been married for 43 years to his wife, Mireille, whom he met when he was 20. “I think it was probably lust at first sight,” Noone confessed, “but then I found out how nice she was, and it turned into love.” Together, they have a daughter named Nicole.

New Ventures and Continued Success

After leaving Herman’s Hermits in 1971, Noone’s solo career didn’t soar as expected. However, in the 1980s, he made a comeback on Broadway, starring in “Pirates of Penzance.” He also became a television personality, hosting the U.S. music show “My Generation” and later appearing as a mentor and voice coach on “American Idol.”

Still Going Strong at 76

Now 76, Peter Noone hasn’t lost his charisma. He remains active, looking fantastic and still captivating audiences with his incredible voice. Age, for Noone, is just a number, and he continues to thrive, proving that his charm and talent are timeless.