Peet Coombes, born on 16 July 1953 in Bradford, Yorkshire, England, was an English guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter whose talent and creativity played a pivotal role in the early careers of Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox. As the lead singer and primary songwriter for The Tourists, Coombes was instrumental in shaping the band’s sound and success, laying the groundwork for what would later become the globally renowned Eurythmics.
Coombes spent much of his early life in Sunderland, where he developed a passion for music and befriended Dave Stewart. The two shared a deep musical connection and formed a post-disco band called The Catch in 1976. Alongside Annie Lennox, whom Stewart had met while she was working in a London restaurant, The Catch released the single “Borderline/Black Blood.” Although the single failed to chart, it marked the beginning of a fruitful collaboration between Coombes, Stewart, and Lennox.
The Catch soon evolved into The Tourists, with the addition of bassist Eddie Chin and drummer Jim Toomey. Coombes took on the role of guitarist, lead vocalist, and chief songwriter, penning most of the band’s original material. The Tourists achieved commercial success with hits such as “I Only Want to Be with You,” a cover of the Dusty Springfield classic, and “So Good to Be Back Home Again.” Their blend of new wave and pop sensibilities resonated with audiences, earning them a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Between 1977 and 1980, The Tourists released three albums: The Tourists (1979), Reality Effect (1979), and Luminous Basement (1980). Despite their success, tensions within the band began to surface, particularly between Coombes and Stewart. Artistic differences and personal struggles led to the band’s dissolution in 1980. While Stewart and Lennox went on to form Eurythmics, Coombes and Eddie Chin started a new group called Acid Drops. Unfortunately, this project did not result in any recorded material.
Following the breakup of The Tourists, Coombes moved to London and largely stepped away from the music scene during the 1980s. However, in 1992, he relocated to Cornwall and formed the band Diminished Responsibility with amateur producer and bassist Andy Brown, Brown’s wife Cathy, and drummer Dave Farghally. Although the band did not release any recordings, it marked a brief return to music for Coombes.
Tragically, Coombes’ health began to deteriorate in the 1990s due to long-term heavy alcohol consumption. By late 1996, he was no longer able to perform, and he passed away on 30 March 1997 in Truro, Cornwall, at the age of 43. Despite his untimely death, Coombes’ legacy lives on through his contributions to The Tourists and his role in the early careers of Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox.
Peet Coombes’ songwriting and musical talent remain an integral part of the story of Eurythmics. His ability to craft memorable melodies and poignant lyrics continues to inspire fans and musicians alike, ensuring his place in the history of British music.
