Robbie Returns To Take That - A Mistake Or A Wise Move?

On Thursday night, the worst secret is music was revealed, as after fifteen years and constant speculation over whether it might happen, Robbie Williams will return to Take That.  They will work together on a new album for the band, due to be released around Christmas time, and go on tour together next year.

Williams quit the band fifteen years ago, after a row with the manager of Take That, and various disagreements with the other band members.  Now, he will be reunited with the Mark Owen, Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Jason Orange for the first time since they record the No.1 song ‘Nobody Else,’ back in 1995.

All five singers have written the songs for the new album, which is due for release in late November.  Their first appearance back on stage together came last September in New York, shortly after Take That’s ‘The Circus Live’ tour.  Since then, speculation has intensified about a proper reunion, which included Robbie and Gary working together on Simon Cowell’s charity single ‘Everybody Hurts,’ for the Haiti earthquake appeal.

Take That spilt back in March 1996, having been the heartthrobs for many girls during the 90’s.  Songs such ‘A Million Love Songs’ and ‘Relight My Fire,’ got the pulses racing of many girls, and won critical acclaim from music experts.  They reformed in 2005, and have gone on to even further success, with three No.1’s (Shine, Patience & Rule the World) and two sell-out tours.  Robbie Williams has also gone onto great success as a solo artist, releasing ‘Bodies’ last year, adding to his growing collection of unstoppable hits from the past, including ‘Millennium,’ ‘Angels,’ and ‘Rock DJ.’  This year, Williams won the Outstanding Music Contribution award at the BRITS.  Since leaving Take That, he has eight UK albums released.

Fellow band mate Mark Owen told the BBC of his delight at Robbie’s return.

“Getting the five of us to be in a room together, although always a dream, never actually seemed like becoming a reality.”  “Now the reality of the five of us making a record together feels like a dream.”  “It’s been an absolute delight spending time with Rob again.  But I’m still a better footballer!”

It is still unclear whether this is a temporary reunion, or a permanent move.  It could have a major impact on the fortunes of both Take That and Robbie Williams future careers.  Having been a big fan of Take That myself in the 1990’s, I generally hope this move works for both parties, but can’t help feel that this is a major gamble that has been taken.