He made us smile

Pop singer was a true original whose heart 'exuded kindness'

- TOM BRYANT

STEVE Harley's most famous song, Make Me Smile (Come Up and See Me), is one of pop's most joyous records. The melody is so uplifting many people are oblivious to the darkness at the heart of the track.

The Nol hit about abandonment and looking forward to poetic justice - is typical of the way he often surprised music fans.

Steve, who has died aged 73, was a highly individual singer-songwriter who fronted glam rock band Cockney Rebel and whose other hits include Judy Teen, Mr Soft and the title track from the musical Phantom of the Opera.

He was still touring last year but was forced to cancel dates in November and December as he had treatment for cancer.

A statement from wife Dorothy and children Kerr and Greta said: "We are devastated to announce our wonderful husband and father has passed away peacefully at home, with his family by his side.