This flamboyant lead vocalist, known for a four-octave range and theatrical stage presence, was born in Zanzibar and later studied art and design in London before finding fame.

At the time of its release, this record was the most expensive album ever produced, and its title nods to a classic Marx Brothers comedy film.

To earn this distinction, a song has to reach the very top of the UK's official singles chart and hold that position for multiple consecutive weeks -- a feat only a handful of releases have managed for nine weeks or more.