By Michelle Norris
STUCK inside the whirlwind of our own busy lives, it can sometimes be difficult to remember those that are fighting to protect us.
But last year, reality hit home when The Soldiers entered the charts with an emotional song that touched our hearts.
Serving soldiers, Lance Corporal Ryan Idzi, Staff Sergeant Richie Maddocks and Sergeant Major Gary Chilton were thrust into the spotlight when they decided to release Coming Home to raise money for Help for Heroes and The Soldiers Charity.
Despite their angelic voices and emotional cause, the trio weren’t prepared for the huge support they received from the public and rejoiced when the single sold a staggering 600,000 copies, hitting number four in the UK Chart.
In short, they became an overnight success, and after digging deep into their own personal lives of service, the UK was immediately won over by their ability to sing straight from the heart.
Now The Soldiers are embarking on a UK tour, performing in Southend on 3 April, and it’s bound to be a moving performance for everyone.
“All of the songs are quite emotional for us,” explains Richie Maddocks, who joined the army when he was 16.
“Coming Home really means a lot to us because we’ve each seen someone or know someone that can relate to the lyrics.”
Seeking influences from their time fighting in the Golf War and the experiences of those around them, The Soldiers have certainly made an impact on their fans, and are a likeable trio.
But being used to a life in uniform, Richie admits that it was strange adjusting to a life in front of the cameras.
“It was a bit bizarre at first,” laughs the 37-year-old. “But every time we finish with The Soldiers, we’re back to serving in the army, so it kind of brings us back to normal.
“I joined the army as a Clarinet player so music has always been a part of my life,” continues Richie. “I have been trained to shoot and if a war broke out I would be fighting. But I love music.
“Within the army band I was also part of a smaller pop group,” confesses the Staff Sergeant. “Although the older gents enjoy the brass sound, some of us younger lads liked pop and soul music.
“Then about 18 months ago me and Gary got a letter from a production company asking if we fancied a crack in a band,” he explains.
“Honestly, I thought it was all a bit too good to be true, but here we are today!
“The reality is that we are still serving soldiers, so we can get called out on duty at any time,” continues Richie, who lives with his wife in Greater Manchester. “But the chances are very slim at the moment.”
Indeed, the boys are hoping that they won’t get called away from their debut UK tour, which will see them sing tracks from their five platinum selling album including Stand by Me, as well as some new material.
And as a special treat for the night in Southend, the lads will be joined by the critically acclaimed Rock Choir.
“It’s going to be fantastic,” enthuses Richie. “There’s so many voices and I think it will just be a good reflective night. We’re also throwing in some new stuff in the second half and showing off some of our own unique dance moves!”
The tour will be dedicated to raising funds for The Soldiers Charity, which helps soldiers and their families in times of need.
“The main charity for the tour is The Soldiers which we all feel is a very deserving cause,” says Richie. “And as soldiers ourselves, it makes sense and really means something to us.”
Gary Chilton, who fought in the Gulf War with Richie adds: “It is just us three regular guys singing about what is important and connecting with the general public musically. At the same time we are raising awareness of what a great job our boys and girls are doing on current operations.”
The Soldiers will be bringing their debut tour ‘Coming Home’ to the Cliffs Pavilion in Southend on Saturday 3 April.
For tickets, call the Box Office on 01702 351135 or visit the theatre’s website www.thecliffspavilion.co.uk to book online.
Alternatively, for more information on The Soldiers, visit www.the-soldiers.co.uk.