April 1984
The first version of ‘West End girls’ is released. It is a club hit in Los Angeles and San Francisco and a small hit in France and Belgium.
History
October 1984
They make their first ever stage appearance at the Fridge Nightclub in Brixton, singing and playing over tapes.
On this day
1959
Christopher Sean Lowe is born in Blackpool, Lancashire, U.K.
1990
The Boys perform ‘So Hard’ on Top of the Pops.
1994
It’s the second day of rehearsals for their upcoming DiscoVery Tour. After an interview with journalist Chris Heath for the tour program, Neil and Chris head off to celebrate the latter’s birthday with an evening performance by Shirley Bassey.
2001
They finish their recording work on their next album, Release.
2004
The Pet Shop Boys receive Q Magazine’s annual Inspiration Award, given to ‘acts that have inspired new generations of musicians, songs, and music lovers in general.’
2007
Chris, in Moscow for a DJ’ing gig at a club opening, celebrates his birthday with a dinner at a restaurant with several friends and acquaintances, including Dainton Connell. It will be the last time Chris sees him before the automobile accident several hours later that claims Dainton’s life.
2009
The Boys are in Santiago, Chile, having arrived a day or two beforehand so that they can enjoy several days off before their concert there on the 7th. Neil notes on their official website that this afternoon he is ‘recovering from Chris’s birthday party.’
2012
Chris spends his birthday working with Neil on their upcoming musical tribute to Alan Turing, after which he enjoys dinner with friends. On the Boys’ official website he describes it as ‘a wonderful day.’
2013
The Pet Shop Boys perform in Portland, Oregon.
- Facts collated by geowayne.com