Les McKeown – the unforgettable voice of Bay City Rollers – lived a life many dreamed of but few truly understood. Behind his charismatic smile and global fame was a man burdened by secrets, trauma, and a relentless search for peace.
Born in 1955 in Edinburgh, Les joined the Bay City Rollers at the age of 18 and skyrocketed to fame as the band’s lead singer. His image was plastered across magazine covers, and fans screamed his name around the world. But his private world was far more complicated.
In his 2003 memoir “Shang-a-Lang: My Life with the Bay City Rollers,” Les made shocking revelations. He admitted to being sexually abused as a child, a trauma that haunted him for years. He also opened up about his struggles with bisexuality, having had relationships with men despite being in a heterosexual marriage.
One of the most painful confessions came when Les spoke about a fatal car accident in 1975, which left one man dead. “I never forgave myself,” he said. The guilt, paired with his fame, led him down a dark path of alcohol and drug addiction, pushing him further from the band and deeper into personal turmoil.
Despite it all, Les never gave up on music. In later years, he toured as a solo act and became more open about his past, using his platform to speak honestly about healing and redemption.
In April 2021, Les passed away suddenly at the age of 65 due to a heart attack. His death was mourned by fans worldwide — not only for his music but for his courage in facing his demons and speaking his truth.