When thinking about the fresh faces and sounds of the British Invasion that swept across the world in the 1960s, Herman’s Hermits and their charismatic frontman, Peter Noone, often spring to mind. With their catchy tunes and clean-cut image, they captured the hearts of teenage fans globally. For those discovering or rediscovering this era of music, a common question arises: how old is Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits today? Let’s delve into the story of this enduring musical icon and uncover the answer.
Peter Noone was born on November 5, 1947, making him currently in his mid-70s. His youthful energy and appearance were a significant part of Herman’s Hermits’ appeal, especially when they burst onto the scene. It’s fascinating to remember that this iconic figure, who seemed to embody the youthful spirit of the 60s, began his journey in music at a remarkably young age.
From Manchester Schoolboy to Teenage Idol
Herman’s Hermits emerged from Manchester, England, and the lineup featured Peter Noone alongside Derek Leckenby, Keith Hopwood, Karl Green, and Barry Whitwam. Their musical style was initially inspired by American surf rock, a genre they admired. Interestingly, Peter Noone adopted the stage name “Herman” from the character Sherman in the Rocky & Bullwinkle cartoons. This playful moniker added to the band’s approachable and youthful image.
In 1964, Herman’s Hermits achieved their first major breakthrough in the UK with “I’m Into Something Good.” This success propelled them to the forefront of the British Invasion, alongside other iconic bands. Peter Noone, as the lead vocalist, was just 15 years old when the group formed, embodying the teenage appeal that resonated so strongly with their growing fanbase.
Conquering America and The Ed Sullivan Show
Herman’s Hermits’ impact wasn’t limited to the UK. Their song “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter” soared to the number one spot on the U.S. Billboard charts in the summer of 1965, solidifying their international stardom. This success led to multiple appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show, a pivotal platform for British bands seeking to conquer the American market.
Peter Noone fondly recalls their Ed Sullivan Show experiences, noting, “They played us because we were British. But Ed Sullivan liked Herman’s Hermits which was very good for us. And he gave us great introductions, but he always got everybody’s name in the band wrong.” Their first performance on June 6, 1965, marked the arrival of “Hermania,” a phenomenon rivaling Beatlemania, with screaming fans filling the studio audience.
Opening with “Mrs. Brown, You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter,” the set was designed to resemble an English street, enhancing their British charm. Peter Noone’s stage presence was captivating. His youthful, innocent look, combined with playful facial expressions and glances at the audience, fueled the teenage frenzy. As Noone himself admitted, “On stage I make myself look as young as possible and then all the girls in the audience go ‘aahh, isn’t he nice’.” The screams throughout their performance confirmed his understanding of his audience.
They followed up with the British music hall tune “I’m Henry the Eighth, I Am” and Sam Cooke’s “Wonderful World,” showcasing their versatility. During “I’m Henry the Eighth, I Am,” Peter Noone playfully exaggerated his Manchester accent, adding to the entertainment for the American viewers. This performance significantly boosted the song’s popularity, and by August, it reached number one in the US.
Return Engagements and Enduring Appeal
Herman’s Hermits returned to The Ed Sullivan Show on June 19, 1966, and September 18, 1966, demonstrating their sustained popularity. The teenage screams persisted, and Ed Sullivan even jokingly remarked, “Oh to be young,” capturing the youthful energy Herman’s Hermits generated. They performed hits like “Isn’t That Just a Little Bit Better,” “Jezebel,” “Dandy,” “L’Autre Jour,” and “My Reservation’s Been Confirmed,” each appearance reinforcing their status as British Invasion favorites.
The Legacy of Herman’s Hermits and Peter Noone Today
By the late 1960s, the musical landscape evolved, and with the emergence of similar acts like Davy Jones and The Monkees, Herman’s Hermits’ initial wave of popularity began to recede. The band eventually decided to part ways. While their active period might not have matched the extended careers of The Beatles or The Rolling Stones, Herman’s Hermits left an indelible mark. Their impressive tally of eleven top ten hits underscores their significant contribution to the British Invasion and 1960s pop music.
And Peter Noone? He remains active in the music industry, continuing to perform and connect with audiences who cherish the timeless hits of Herman’s Hermits. Knowing that Peter Noone, now in his 70s, continues to bring the energy and music of Herman’s Hermits to fans is a testament to his enduring appeal and the lasting legacy of this iconic British Invasion band. From a 15-year-old sensation to a seasoned performer, Peter Noone’s journey is a remarkable chapter in music history.
