SERVING soldiers who gripped the nation with songs of hope, will be bringing their tour to Rhyl.
Emotional ballads with tear-jerking messages pulled on the heartstrings of people across the country.
The Soldiers, which is made up of Welsh soldier Lance Corporal Ryan Idzi, Sergeant Major Gary Chilton and Sergeant Richie Maddocks, released their debut album Coming Home on October 26 2009. They reached number four in the charts and sold a staggering 600, 000 copies.
Youngest member 24-year-old Ryan Idzi from Caerphilly said despite their success the soldiers were still just “genuine lads.”
He said: “We are just singing for a cause we believe in. All the songs have a meaning I think people can relate to. For everyone in the army coming home is what keeps you going. We have had so many messages of support on Facebook. It has been unbelievable, but it hasn’t changed us.”
Part of the proceeds from the sale of every album are donated to charities including Help For Heroes, the British Legion and the Army Benevolent Fund. Ryan, who has served in Iraq and Afghanistan as part of the 20th Armoured Brigade, said: “It is great to be in a position, where you can help and raise money.”
The trio started their tour last month in Leicester and will travel the length and breadth of the country including a special appearance at London’s Royal Albert Hall.
The Rhyl audience will be given the chance to see The Soldiers perform hits such as Hero and Tears in Heaven. An unmissable Motown medley will show a whole new side to their performance. They will sing alongside a full live band, whose members have previously played with world famous acts such as Queen. Ryan said: “I can’t wait to come to Rhyl, for me coming to any Welsh venue is like coming home.”
In 2007 Ryan appeared on X Factor and made it through to the Boot Camp stage of the show after singing Lean On Me. He was described as “gorgeous” by judge Dannii Minogue. The group were formed after they were approached individually by producers.
Ryan, who now spends most of his time signing up new recruits, said: “I think everyone is really proud. The other soldiers do take the mick and laugh. They won’t say it, but I know they are proud.”
The tour exclusively supports The Soldiers’ Charity, the army’s national cause, which helps soldiers, former soldiers and their families in times of need.
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To book tickets call the Rhyl Pavilion box office on 01745 330000 or access the website at www.rhylpavilion.co.uk