Who Is Philip Oakey? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Philip Oakey, born on October 2, 1955, in Sheffield, England, is a renowned British singer and the lead vocalist of the iconic synth-pop band Human League. With a career spanning over four decades, Oakey has made significant contributions to the music industry, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the new wave music scene of the late 70s and 80s. In 2025, he celebrates his 69th birthday while continuing to influence new generations of artists.
| Occupation | Songwriter |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 2, 1955 |
| Age | 69 Years |
| Birth Place | Hinckley, Leicestershire, England |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | England |
Popularity
Philip Oakey's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As of 2025, Philip Oakey stands at approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall and weighs around 160 pounds (73 kg). Known for his distinct style and presence, Oakey has always embraced a unique fashion sense that complements his music career. His body stats reflect a lean and fit physique, showcasing his dedication to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Oakey was among the most visually distinctive music artists of the early 1980s.
At the height of their success, the Human League released the triple platinum-certified studio album Dare (1981) and Oakey co-wrote and sang the multimillion-selling single "Don't You Want Me", a #1 single in both the US and UK, where it remains the 28th-highest-selling single of all time.
Oakey has been lead vocalist of the Human League for more than 40 years. With the band, he has sold more than 20 million records worldwide. He continues recording and performing internationally.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Philip Oakey has enjoyed a relatively private personal life compared to his public career. As of 2025, there is no official information regarding a boyfriend or girlfriend. Oakey was previously in relationships, but details about his current dating status remain undisclosed. He has been known to keep his family life away from the limelight, focusing instead on his music and professional engagements.
He is of English and Irish descent. Oakey's father worked for the General Post Office and moved jobs regularly: the family moved to Coventry when Oakey was an infant, to Leeds when he was five and to Birmingham when he was nine, attending Catherine-de-Barnes primary school near Solihull and gaining a scholarship to the independent Solihull School.
He settled in Sheffield when he was 14. He was educated at King Edward VII School in Sheffield. He left school at 18 without finishing his exams and worked in a number of casual jobs, including one in a university bookshop and as a hospital orderly at Thornbury Annex Hospital in Sheffield in 1977.
In 1978, Oakey married his girlfriend Anthea Helliwell, whom he had met at school, but the marriage ended in divorce in 1980.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Philip Oakey's net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful music career, including album sales, touring, and licensing his music for various media. Throughout the years, Oakey's earnings have been bolstered by various ventures, including appearances and collaborations with other artists.
In early 2009, Oakey collaborated with Pet Shop Boys on their tenth studio album Yes, supplying vocals for the intended bonus-disc song "This Used to Be the Future." Also in 2009, Oakey collaborated with British female synthpop artist Little Boots on her first album, Hands, recording the duet track "Symmetry."
Career, Business, and Investments
Philip Oakey co-founded the Human League in 1977, and the band gained worldwide fame with hits like "Don't You Want Me," "Human," and "Fascination." In addition to his success with Human League, Oakey has also released solo albums and collaborated with numerous artists, diversifying his portfolio in the music business. His investments include ventures in music publishing and participation in various creative projects that leverage his musical legacy.
Philip Oakey (born 2 October 1955) is an English singer-songwriter who is the frontman and co-founder of the synth-pop band the Human League. Aside from the Human League, he has enjoyed an extensive solo music career and has collaborated with numerous other artists and producers.
Social Network
In 2025, Philip Oakey maintains an active presence on social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. He uses these platforms to connect with fans, share updates about his music, and reminisce about his career. Oakey occasionally posts behind-the-scenes glimpses of his life and works, maintaining a loyal following and fostering a sense of community among his fans.
The media regularly commented and joked about Oakey's style. He pushed his style further and began wearing high-heeled shoes. He already had both his ears pierced and wore dangling women's diamante earrings. On a 1981 poster, Oakey posed shirtless with pierced nipples linked by a gold chain.
Oakey says of his early-1980s style: "I deliberately wore clothes that either men or women could wear. But I don't think I ever really looked like a woman. And I never wore very masculine clothes."
Education
Although specific details on Philip Oakey's education may not be widely documented, it is known that he attended schools in Sheffield and developed a passion for music and performance at a young age. His career sparked after joining local bands and eventually forming the Human League, where his innate talent found a broader audience.
