ONE man who has secured his name in the R&B history books is American Alexander O’Neal.

He is one of the genres most iconic names with chart smash Criticize still lighting up dance floors across the world 30 years after its release.

Alexander O’Neal’s sound has transcended generations and now his Midlands fans will get the chance to see him in action on stage at Malvern’s Forum Theatre.

He will be in the county at the end of next month as part of a UK tour with his visit to Malvern planned for October 28.

Originally released in 1987 from his album Hearsay, the single of Criticize recently entered the UK charts once more.

Signed by Prince back in the early days as part of The Time, his journey in and out of various band formations propelled him to be the solo artist that we best know him for today.

The man from Minneapolis has created a cult appreciation across the globe. His back-catalogue transporting his singles in to the UK and Billboard top tens as well as a triple platinum selling album and ever expanding discography.

With his heart firmly in the music industry and a loyalty to the thousands that still buy his records, O'Neal's passion to keep his sound alive is ever present and this year has seen the release of his first studio album for 15 years as well as undertaking a 50 date UK tour..