Soul icon of the 1980s, Alexander O'Neal, is heading for Blackpool on February 3.

The star between top 10 smash hit, Saturday Love and R&B classics such as 'A Broken Heart Could Mend' and 'If You Were Here Tonight' takes to the stage at the Opera House.

The early 80s saw Alexander begin his solo career as a vocalist, making his first recordings in '84 with Jam and Lewis.

The self titled, debut solo album was released by a local label and a year later generated his first UK top 10 smash Saturday Love.

In 1986 Alexander O'Neal achieved a co-production with Jam & Lewis credit on the Janet Jackson debut hit single "Control".

1987 saw the release of a second album "Hearsay" and featured major club anthems "Fake" and "Criticise" - the album sold more than 700,000 copies in the UK alone.

This period saw Alexander embark on several sell out UK tours including 6 nights at Wembley Arena where his on stage antics on a bed with beautiful women from the audience pre-empted scenes similar to those from Madonna's Blonde Ambition tour a few years later.

Alexander O'Neal's popularity in the UK has been constantly reiterated with numerous sell out tours (including Princes Trust Concert) and a BBC TV special.

All his six albums have charted both in the UK and the US. These six albums have led to Alexander clocking up more than 162 weeks in the Guinness Book of Albums.

The years between 1989 and 1991 saw many of his best cuts re-mixed and achieve chart status within a three year period.

Alexander O'Neal's world wide success was celebrated with a greatest hits collection in 1992, creating his second Platinum album in the UK.

Alexander O'Neal plays the Opera House in Blackpool on Friday, February 3. Tickets for the gig are priced at £17.50 for the balcony and £19.50 for the circle and the balcony. Call the box office on 01253 292029 for more details.