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Singing Milkman Tops Charts, Then Vanishes
6 Sep
Summary
- Craig Douglas, the 'singing milkman', had a UK No. 1 hit.
- His chart success came with a cover of 'Only Sixteen' in 1959.
- He continued performing despite health issues until his death.
Craig Douglas, who rose to fame as a 'singing milkman' with significant chart success in the UK, has passed away at the age of 85. His most notable achievement was a four-week run at No. 1 in the British charts in July 1959 with his cover version of Sam Cooke's 'Only Sixteen'. This song became the defining track of his career.
Douglas, born Terry Perkins on the Isle of Wight, began his musical journey after winning a talent contest. He was soon discovered by agent Bunny Lewis, who helped him secure singing lessons and a new name. He appeared on the BBC's 'Six-Five Special' and released singles for Decca before joining the Top Rank label.
While 'Only Sixteen' was his sole No. 1, Douglas had several other Top 20 hits, including 'Pretty Blue Eyes' and 'A Hundred Pounds of Clay'. His career also included film appearances in 'The Painted Smile' and 'It's Trad, Dad!' in 1962, the same year The Beatles had their first minor hit. Despite health challenges that led him to use a wheelchair from 2009, Douglas continued to perform in stage shows and pantomimes and released a new album in 2013, continuing his passion until his passing.
