Terry from East 17 Talks 90s Nostalgia, Stage Energy, and the Future of Music Ahead of the Kubix Tour
East 17 weren’t just a band—they were a cultural phenomenon. With their edgy, rebellious image and a string of hits in the ‘90s, they became the soundtrack to a generation. Known for their high-energy stage shows, bold fashion choices, and catchy anthems, East 17 had a unique way of connecting with fans. But what really set them apart was their authenticity. In an era of manufactured pop stars, they were one of the few groups who felt real to their audience—something that resonates with Terry, the band’s frontman, to this day.
Now, as East 17 gears up for their upcoming shows on the Kubix tour, I caught up with Terry to reflect on the band’s journey, share some behind-the-scenes stories, and talk about what it’s like to be back on stage alongside other iconic ‘90s acts. It’s clear that Terry is as passionate as ever about the music and the fans who’ve stuck with them through thick and thin. From memorable gigs in Red Square to the unexpected joy of connecting with new fans on TikTok, Terry opens up about what it means to still be doing this at 50, how music has changed, and why East 17’s energy is stronger than ever.
Here’s what Terry had to say about nostalgia, the future of music, and the thrill of still rocking the stage.
V: East 17 became such a defining part of ‘90s pop culture. What do you think made your music resonate so well with fans back then?
Terry: Yeah, I think it was the whole image and the fact that we were just ourselves, to be honest with you. A lot of boy bands back then were put together, but we were different. We went to school together, hung out after school together—it was all real. I think the fans saw that. They saw us as approachable, like we were just normal guys, you know? We didn’t have any fake personas. We dressed ourselves, and yeah, there were a few fashion disasters along the way! But the fans could sense that authenticity. They knew we weren’t trying to be something we weren’t. And that really helped build that connection. We’d say whatever we thought in interviews, and sometimes that got us into trouble—but it kept things real.
V: Speaking of connecting with fans, how does it feel to be sharing the stage again with other iconic ‘90s acts on the Kubix tour? Any friendships reignited or old rivalries?
Terry: Yeah, it’s been amazing. We’ve been back on the circuit for about 11 years now, and it’s just so much better than it was back in the day. Back then, it was a bit cliquey, you know? Everyone was trying to act cool. But now? We’re all older, we’ve all got wrinkles, and no one really cares anymore! The competition is gone. It’s much more about having a laugh, catching up, and just enjoying it. We’ve rekindled great friendships. I honestly didn’t think I’d be 50 years old and still on stage, still doing gigs, still making a living out of it. It’s amazing to be out here doing what we love.
V: That’s awesome to hear. And I know East 17 was famous for its high-energy stage shows. How has the performance changed, if at all, over the years?
Terry: Actually, I’d say the energy is even higher now than it was back in the ’90s! The thing is, no one sees the backstage part—like, it takes me about two hours to get ready because I’m sweating so much before I even hit the stage. I still do all the dance routines and give it everything I’ve got. The audience is just as mad as they were when they were younger, and it really pushes you on. We even had an epic moment in Blackpool a few weeks ago. I asked the crowd if anyone wanted to come on stage and sing with us, and we ended up with about 30 people up there, just dancing and having a party. It was brilliant—those moments with the fans are what make it all worth it.
V: That’s incredible! What would you say is the most memorable performance of your career?
Terry: There are a couple that stand out. One was in 1996 when we played in Red Square in Russia. Pepsi sponsored the gig, and we set up the stage right there in the square. There were over a million people there, despite the heavy rain. Tony had food poisoning, so he wasn’t feeling too great, but the whole experience was just surreal. Then there was another one about five years ago, at the gates of the Berlin Wall on New Year’s Eve. It was to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the wall coming down, and again, we had over a million people. That was all televised. Just looking out at that sea of people—back to back, lights everywhere—it’s something you’ll never forget. And what’s crazy is when you realise that those songs, like “Stay Another Day,” are still being played at people’s weddings and funerals. You don’t think about that when you’re making music, but it’s amazing to see how deeply it affects people.
V: It must feel amazing to know your music has that kind of impact. If you could collaborate with any current artist, who would it be?
Terry: It would have to be Ed Sheeran. He’s just so versatile. One minute he’s doing a country-style song, and the next he’s rapping or doing something urban. He can literally do anything. He’s so talented, and the fact that he can sell out Wembley Stadium just with him and his guitar is insane. I’d love to work with him. I also have to mention Elton John. He wasn’t really my cup of tea when I was younger, but as I’ve gotten older, I can really appreciate his talent. He’s a megastar!
V: I love that! Now, you mentioned earlier that touring today is a lot more fun than it used to be. Why is that?
Terry: Back in the day, the media would try to spark fake rivalries between bands to sell magazines. You don’t see that so much now because if something like that happens, it gets called out instantly on social media. And that’s made touring more enjoyable. We’ve got the chance to connect with other acts, collaborate, and just enjoy each other’s company. It’s not about competing anymore—it’s about having a good time and making great music together.
V: That’s definitely a much healthier approach. Do you have any pre-show rituals to get in the zone?
Terry: Not really, to be honest. We usually do a little fist bump together before going on stage, just to get the energy flowing. And sometimes, we’ll have a shot of vodka. It helps calm the nerves!
V: Sounds like a fun ritual! Are you working on any new music, or is there a particular direction you’d like to explore?
Terry: Yeah, we’re working on new music. We’ve been writing songs and working with a friend who runs a boutique label. The great thing about today’s music scene is that you get instant feedback through platforms like Spotify and TikTok. We released a track called “Tell Me You’re the One” about a year ago, and it’s already got over 2.5 million plays on TikTok, with half a million streams—without any promo! It’s crazy. The whole world of music has changed, but it’s exciting to see how much easier it is to reach people now. The analytics are so detailed—it’s wild to see who’s listening, from which countries, and even which genders are tuning in. It’s mental!
V: That’s amazing! I can’t wait to hear more. Thanks so much for chatting, Terry. It’s been awesome hearing about your journey and how East 17 is still going strong!
Terry: No problem, it’s been great. And yeah, we’re still doing it, and still loving it!