Singer of 'Everlasting Love' dies at 76

Steve Ellis, the British singer who brought 'Everlasting Love' to the top of the UK singles chart in 1967, died on Friday, Oct. 30, at age 76. An announcement on his official Facebook page cited complications from a chronic illness as the cause of death.

The statement said Ellis died peacefully in the evening with family members present. He is survived by his wife, Val. Ellis was born Stephen John Ellis in Edgware, Middlesex, England, and began performing professionally as a teenager. He first sang with the Clifton Bystanders before joining the Soul Survivors, a group that changed its name to Love Affair in 1966.

Love Affair achieved four No. 1 hits on the UK charts during its brief run. The 1967 release of 'Everlasting Love' displaced the Beatles’ 'Hello, Goodbye' from the top spot. The band also reached No. 1 with 'Rainbow Valley,' 'A Day Without Love,' and 'Bringing on Back the Good Times.' Ellis left the group in 1969 to pursue a solo career.

His subsequent musical projects included a band named Ellis, formed with keyboardist Zoot Money, and the rock group Widowmaker. Widowmaker released its self-titled album in 1976 and toured with acts such as Nazareth and the Electric Light Orchestra. Ellis also provided vocals for the soundtrack of the 1970 film 'Loot.'

Ellis continued performing for decades, including stints with New Amen Corner and solo work. His final album, 'Baby Faced Assassin,' featured collaborations with Paul Weller. The Facebook post inviting fans to share memories concluded by referencing his signature song, 'Everlasting Love.'