Michael Alø-Nielsen · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0Rick Astley
The 1980s pop icon who became, despite himself, the global face of the "Rickroll".
Biography.
The journey and inspirations that shape Rick Astley's world.
A worldwide number one in 1987, Rick Astley became, decades later, the reluctant face of the global "Rickroll".
Born in 1966 in Newton-le-Willows, Lancashire, Rick Astley was spotted by the producer trio Stock Aitken Waterman, who were then shaping 1980s British pop.
His first single, "Never Gonna Give You Up" (1987), reached number one in more than 25 countries and became one of the most emblematic hits of the decade.
Decades later, the track had an unexpected second life thanks to the internet phenomenon of "Rickrolling", which introduced it to a whole new generation and earned it a place in the Spotify Billions Club.
Far from running away from this status, Rick Astley has fully embraced it with humour, while pursuing an energetic live career, carried by a voice that has remained intact since the 1980s.
Page last updated on 6 October 2026
Upcoming
dates.
Rick Astley's upcoming dates at the festivals we track. Click a festival to see its full page.
Top tracks on
Spotify.
The artist's most streamed tracks, straight from Spotify.
Photos &
videos.
Credits: Michael Alø-Nielsen · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0, Andrew Hurley · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0.
Follow
Rick Astley
Add Rick Astley to your favorites to find their upcoming dates, festivals and key announcements.