Roger Whittaker, the iconic British folk singer, bid farewell to the world on September 13, 2023, at the age of 87. In this tribute, we delve into the life of this musical legend, his enduring love story with his wife Natalie O’Brien, and the beautiful family they created together.
Roger Whittaker Wife
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Roger Whittaker’s life was forever entwined with that of Natalie O’Brien, his beloved wife of 59 years. Their remarkable journey began when they exchanged vows on August 15, 1964. Their love story, which began only two years after Whittaker’s debut in the music industry, was a testament to enduring love.
Who Is Natalie O’Brien?
Natalie O’Brien, who worked as a secretary to a music producer at the time, caught Roger’s heart in the spring of 1964. It was a crazy love story, as the couple decided to marry after knowing each other for just three months.
This union bore witness to the birth of five beautiful children – Emily, Lauren, Jessica, Guy, and Alexander. Their early years of marriage posed challenges when they struggled to conceive, leading them to adopt Emily and Lauren. However, their family soon grew with the arrival of their biological children, creating a tight-knit, loving household.
Natalie: The Woman Behind the Man
Natalie O’Brien wasn’t just Roger Whittaker’s wife; she was his partner and manager. From 1989 until they retired to the serene South of France in 2013, Natalie played a crucial role in shaping Roger’s career. Her dedication and support were instrumental in Roger’s success, making her an indispensable part of his journey.
A Remarkable Journey From Kenya to International Stardom
Roger Whittaker’s life began on March 22, 1936, in Nairobi, Kenya, where he spent his formative years. Born to Viola and Edward Whittaker, who hailed from Staffordshire, England, the family’s move to Africa was precipitated by a motorcycle accident involving Roger’s father.
Whittaker’s educational journey led him to the Prince of Wales High School in Kenya. Shortly after his graduation, he was drafted into national service. His first single, “The Charge Of The Light Brigade,” composed for the university’s Rag Week show, marked the beginning of a remarkable career.
A Chart-Topping Journey
Roger Whittaker’s musical journey was marked by chart-topping success. His second single, “Steel Men,” gained recognition and made its way onto the charts while he was still a university student. His proficiency in whistling garnered attention, and his song “Mexican Whistler” even charted at number one in three European countries.
Over four decades, he mesmerized audiences with songs in various languages, including German and French, further recognized as a global sensation. His hits, including “Durham Town,” “The Last Farewell,” and “New World in the Morning,” resonated with people around the world.
