Shirlie Holliman Biography: Shirlie Kemp born 18 April 1962 is an English singer who rose to fame in the 1980s as a backing vocalist for Wham! and later as one half of the pop duo Pepsi & Shirlie, alongside Helen DeMacque. She was introduced to Martin by her close friend George Michael, whom she supported as a backing vocalist during his time with Wham!. Shirlie also remains close to George Michael’s memory. She is the sister-in-law of Gary Kemp.
Shirlie Holliman Biography
Shirlie Kemp was born on April 18, 1962, in Watford, Hertfordshire, England. She is an actress and singer, best known for her work in Karma Magnet (2008) and for appearing in the music videos Pepsi & Shirlie: Goodbye Stranger and Pepsi & Shirlie: Can’t Give Me Love (both released in 1987). She gained fame as one half of the British pop duo Pepsi & Shirlie. Shirlie married musician and actor Martin Kemp on November 14, 1988. The couple has two children: a daughter, Harley Moon Kemp, born on August 19, 1989, and a son, Roman Kemp, born on January 28, 1993.
Shirlie Holliman Biography 2025 Details
| Born | 18 April 1962 Bushey Heath, Hertfordshire, England |
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| Genres | Pop |
| Occupation | Singer |
| Years active |
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| Labels |
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| Formerly of | Pepsi & Shirlie |
| Spouse |
Martin Kemp
(m. 1988) |
| Category | Singers Bio |
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About Shirlie Holliman
Shirlie Kemp is an English singer who found fame in the 1980s with Wham! and as part of the duo Pepsi & Shirlie along with Helen DeMacque.
Shirlie Holliman Wiki
- Born: 18 April 1962 (age 63 years), Bushey, United Kingdom
- Spouse: Martin Kemp (m. 1988)
- Children: Harley Moon Kemp, Roman Kemp
- Music group: Pepsi & Shirlie
Early Life
Shirley Holliman was born as the fourth of five children to Arthur and Margaret Holliman and grew up on a council estate in Bushey, near Watford, Hertfordshire. Initially, she planned to become a horse riding instructor. However, after developing hay fever at the age of 18 and finding herself at a crossroads, her then-boyfriend Andrew Ridgeley encouraged her to join him and George Michael on stage as a dancer during a local performance.
Key Details
- Full Name: Shirlie Holliman
- Date of Birth: April 18, 1962
- Place of Birth: Watford, Hertfordshire, England
- Nationality: British
- Spouse: Martin Kemp (married in 1988)
- Children: Harley Moon Kemp, Roman Kemp
- Net Worth: Approximately $1.5 million
- Profession: Singer, Actress
Family Background
Shirlie Holliman was born and raised in a working-class family in Watford, Hertfordshire. Her father worked as a builder, and her mother was employed part-time. Shirlie grew up with a passion for music and dance, encouraged by her parents who instilled in her a strong work ethic and perseverance. She attended a local school in Hertfordshire, where she excelled in performing arts. It was during her teenage years that Shirlie’s love for music deepened, influenced by the evolving pop and soul scenes of the late 1970s.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Shirlie’s professional career took off in the early 1980s when she joined Wham! as a backing vocalist alongside her friend Dee C. Lee. The band, led by George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley, rose to worldwide fame. Shirlie’s energy and vocal harmonies were a key part of their iconic sound. After Wham! disbanded in 1986, Shirlie teamed up with Helen “Pepsi” DeMacque to form the duo Pepsi & Shirlie. They quickly gained success with hits like “Heartache” and “Goodbye Stranger,” releasing their debut album All Right Now, which showcased their chemistry and solidified their place in pop music.
Notable Works and Achievements
During her time with Wham!, Shirlie contributed to timeless hits such as “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” and “Last Christmas.” As part of Pepsi & Shirlie, she continued to enjoy success with energetic pop songs that resonated with audiences worldwide. Though often behind the scenes, Shirlie earned widespread respect for her vocal talent and professionalism, collaborating closely with iconic artists like George Michael.
Personal Life and Relationships
In 1988, Shirlie married Martin Kemp, bassist of Spandau Ballet and actor. Their enduring marriage has been a significant part of her life. Together, they have two children: Harley Moon Kemp, a photographer and songwriter, and Roman Kemp, a radio and TV personality. Known for their strong family bond, the Kemps frequently share moments from their lives on social media and in interviews. Their relationship is often highlighted as one of the most stable and inspiring in the entertainment world.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Shirlie shared a close friendship with George Michael throughout his life.
- She and Martin Kemp co-authored It’s a Love Story, a book detailing their life and relationship.
- Their daughter Harley Moon directed the music video for “In the Bleak Midwinter,” a song Shirlie and Martin recorded together in 2019.
- Despite her fame, Shirlie remains down-to-earth, often putting family before the spotlight.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Shirlie and Martin Kemp actively support causes such as cancer research and mental health awareness, demonstrating their dedication to giving back. Shirlie’s influence extends beyond her music, leaving a lasting mark on 1980s pop culture and inspiring newer generations through her family’s creative work.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Although Shirlie has stepped back from the public eye, she occasionally joins her family in music and media projects. Fans eagerly anticipate future collaborations. Shirlie played a key role in defining the sound of the 1980s, with her work in Wham! and Pepsi & Shirlie continuing to influence pop music and culture today. Her story remains an inspiration to aspiring artists worldwide.
Shirlie Kemp Net Worth 2025
Shirlie Kemp’s net worth is estimated to be around $1.5 million, accumulated through her music career and other ventures. She maintains a private life with financial stability reflected in her family’s comfortable lifestyle. The Kemp family lives in a stylish home in Hertfordshire, combining modern and classic design elements. Shirlie enjoys hobbies like gardening and traveling, prioritizing a balanced life centered around family.
FAQs
What is Shirlie Kemp best known for?
Shirlie Kemp is best known for being part of the 1980s pop duo Pepsi & Shirlie and for her earlier role as a backing singer for Wham!.
How did Shirlie Kemp meet Martin Kemp?
Shirlie Kemp was introduced to her future husband, Martin Kemp, by George Michael, with whom she worked as a backing singer.
What are some of Shirlie Kemp’s notable screen appearances?
Shirlie Kemp appeared in Karma Magnet (2008) and starred in the music videos for Goodbye Stranger and Can’t Give Me Love with Pepsi & Shirlie in 1987.
Who are Shirlie Kemp’s children?
Shirlie Kemp has two children with Martin Kemp: a daughter, Harley Moon Kemp, born in 1989, and a son, Roman Kemp, born in 1993.
Where was Shirlie Kemp born?
Shirlie Kemp was born in Watford, Hertfordshire, England.
Is Shirlie Kemp related to Gary Kemp?
Yes, Shirlie Kemp is the sister-in-law of Gary Kemp.