Introduction
Steve Priest (23 Feb 1948 – 4 Jun 2020) was the firebrand bassist and co‑lead vocalist of ’70s glam‑rock legends The Sweet. From his first thunderous riff on “Little Willy” to his vibrant stage persona, Priest helped define an era. Even after the original band split, he carried the torch—touring, recording memoirs, and championing the music he loved. His passing at 72 left fans and bandmates alike mourning one of rock’s most exuberant personalities.
Born Stephen Norman Priest in Hayes, Middlesex, he taught himself bass as a teen—fashioning makeshift instruments and soaking up Jet Harris, The Who, and the Rolling Stones. In 1968 he co‑founded The Sweet with Brian Connolly, Mick Tucker and Frank Torpey (soon replaced by Andy Scott). Their fusion of catchy melodies, driving rhythms and flamboyant costumes exploded with hits like “Little Willy” and “Fox on the Run,” placing Priest’s muscular bass lines at the heart of glam rock.
Priest wasn’t just a musician—he was a showman. Decked in makeup, platform boots and outrageous outfits, he embraced glam’s theatricality. The Guardian noted he “enthusiastically explored the presentational possibilities of glam rock,” crafting a persona as memorable as his playing. Onstage, his bass growl and backing vocals locked in perfect counterpoint to Knopfler‑like leads and Connolly’s soaring voice, creating an irresistible live energy.
After The Sweet dissolved in 1982, Priest moved to New York, formed The Allies, and later settled in Los Angeles. In 1994 he published his memoir, Are You Ready, Steve?, offering candid tales from the road and studio. Well into the 2000s he toured under “Steve Priest’s Sweet,” keeping the music alive for new generations.
On June 4, 2020, Andy Scott announced Priest’s passing at age 72, calling him “the best bass player I ever played with”. Tributes poured in from fans and fellow musicians, celebrating not just his riffs but his unbridled joy and generosity.