Dean Ford

Dean Ford (5 September 1945 – 31 December 2018), born Thomas McAleese, was a Scottish singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the pop group Marmalade.

Ford joined Marmalade in 1966, replacing founding member Pat Fairley as the band's singer. He became the frontman during their most commercially successful period, leading them to their only number one hit in the UK with a cover of The Beatles' "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da" in 1969. He also contributed original material to the band, co-writing several of their hits including "Reflections of My Life," a major international success.

Following changes in the band's lineup and musical direction in the early 1970s, Ford left Marmalade in 1974 to pursue a solo career. He released several singles and an album, but failed to achieve the same level of success he had experienced with Marmalade. He later moved to Los Angeles, California, where he continued to perform and record music.

Throughout his career, Ford toured extensively and maintained a loyal following. He is remembered for his distinctive vocals and his contributions to the pop music scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s. He died in Los Angeles on December 31, 2018, at the age of 73.