Peter Skellern: English singer-songwriter and pianist

Breakthrough and notable recordings

Skellern's best-known recording was the 1972 single "You're a Lady", which combined his piano-led songwriting with choral backing and a wistful lyric. The record featured the vocal group the Congregation, who themselves had earlier achieved popularity with a top ten hit, "Softly Whispering I Love You". "You're a Lady" became an international success and reached the United States Billboard Hot 100, bringing Skellern recognition beyond Britain. Although he had only a few major chart hits after that single, he continued to record numerous albums and was respected for the quality and consistency of his songwriting.

Musical style and themes

Skellern's work is frequently described as combining traditional popular songcraft with elements typically associated with British music hall, choral music and brass bands. His songs often evoke a gentle, reflective mood and make use of rich arrangements that highlight piano and vocal harmony. This mixture of popular and more classical textures gave his recordings an unmistakable sound that set him apart from many contemporaries.

Work for television, film and collaboration

Beyond singles and albums, Skellern wrote music for television and film, contributing memorable theme pieces and incidental music. Notable television themes and commissions include music for series such as Billy Liar (1973), Me and My Girl (1984) and Flying Lady (1987). He also formed a long-running performance partnership with fellow pianist and singer Richard Stilgoe; the two toured the UK, recorded three albums together and presented concerts that mixed music with humorous and theatrical elements.

• Television themes and scores (selected): Billy Liar, Me and My Girl, Flying Lady.
• Collaboration: double act with Richard Stilgoe—tours and three joint albums.

Later life, ordination and legacy

In later years Skellern reduced his public performances and concentrated on composition and occasional recordings. When his health declined due to a brain tumour, a long-held personal wish was fulfilled: in October 2016 he was ordained as a priest of the Church of England with special permission from the Archbishop of Canterbury. The ordination, carried out when he knew his life was nearing its end, reflected his private faith and commitment; it was reported with sensitivity by national media. He died on 17 February 2017.

Peter Skellern is remembered for a small body of widely loved songs, his craftsmanship as a pianist and songwriter, and for bringing a distinctive English warmth to popular music. Collectors and fans continue to appreciate his recordings, and his work for radio and television remains part of his public legacy.

Ordination report | Church of England | Archbishop of Canterbury