Mac and Katie Kissoon are a brother-and-sister pop duo originally from Trinidad, later based in the UK. They rose to fame in the 1970s with their catchy, upbeat songs like “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep”, “Sugar Candy Kisses”, and “Don’t Do It Baby.”
Though their chart success eventually slowed, both continued thriving careers as session vocalists. They worked with music legends including Van Morrison, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and Roger Waters. Katie, in particular, became one of the UK’s most sought-after backing singers.
| Artist Name | Mac and Katie Kissoon |
|---|---|
| Origin | Port of Spain, Trinidad (raised in the UK) |
| Years Active | 1970–1980s (duo); 1997 (reunion album); ongoing solo careers |
| Genres | Pop, Bubblegum Pop, Soul, Vocal Pop |
| Famous Hits | “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep”, “Sugar Candy Kisses”, “Don’t Do It Baby” |
| Labels | Young Blood, CBS, Epic |
| Associated Acts | George Harrison, Van Morrison, James Last, Eric Clapton, Elton John |
| Notable Performances | Concert for George (Katie), European tours, James Last Orchestra (Mac) |
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Mac Kissoon (born Gerald Farthing, November 11, 1943) and Katie Kissoon (born Katherine Farthing, March 11, 1951) were both born in Port of Spain, Trinidad, and raised in the United Kingdom after their family immigrated in the early 1960s.
Early Music Ventures
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In 1965, the siblings joined a vocal group called The Marionettes, consisting of two male and two female members.
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Katie also recorded solo under the name Peanut, releasing a few singles.
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Mac fronted his own band that toured Europe and released a solo single—a cover of “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” by the Rolling Stones.
They later became part of another act called The Rag Dolls before launching their own musical partnership.
First Hit: “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep”
In 1971, Mac and Katie recorded a cover of “Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep,” originally written and performed by Lally Stott. That same year, a version by Middle of the Road also hit the market.
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Middle of the Road’s version topped the UK charts.
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Mac and Katie’s version peaked at #41 in the UK.
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However, they found greater success in the United States, where the single climbed to #20 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #10 on the Adult Contemporary chart.
Though not as dominant as Middle of the Road’s version in Britain, Mac and Katie’s rendition carved out a strong international presence.
Continued Success Across Europe
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While their US chart presence faded after their debut, Mac and Katie built a strong fan base in continental Europe, especially in Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.
They released numerous singles that resonated well with European audiences. Their sound—clean, bright pop with a soulful edge—fit perfectly with the tastes of the era.
Breakthrough in the UK: “Sugar Candy Kisses” and “Don’t Do It Baby”
Mac and Katie finally broke through in the UK charts in 1975.
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“Sugar Candy Kisses” reached #3 on the UK Singles Chart.
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The follow-up, “Don’t Do It Baby,” peaked at #9.
Both tracks were written by hitmakers Tony Waddington and Wayne Bickerton, who also wrote for The Rubettes.
These songs cemented the duo’s place in British pop and remain their most memorable UK hits.
Musical Style and Appeal
Mac and Katie Kissoon were known for their:
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Bubblegum pop sensibility, especially in their 1975 hits.
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Soulful vocal harmonies, with Mac’s deeper tones complementing Katie’s brighter voice.
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Upbeat, radio-friendly tunes, perfect for mainstream 1970s airplay.
Their music appealed to both young audiences and adult listeners, striking a balance between catchy hooks and smooth production.
Careers After the Hits
As the popularity of bubblegum pop waned in the late 1970s, Mac and Katie gradually transitioned away from performing as a duo.
Katie’s Vocal Career
Katie Kissoon found her niche as a backing and session singer, building an impressive resume over the decades. She worked with:
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George Harrison
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Eric Clapton
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Elton John
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Van Morrison
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Roger Waters
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Robbie Williams
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Pet Shop Boys
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Elkie Brooks
She also performed at the Concert for George in 2002, a tribute held at the Royal Albert Hall marking the first anniversary of George Harrison’s passing.
Katie remains active in the music industry, both in studio work and live touring. She is also the mother of Seb Stone, a singer-songwriter and producer.
Mac’s Musical Journey
Mac continued to perform and record as well. He became a longtime member of James Last’s backing vocal ensemble, performing with the famed German bandleader well into the 2000s.
In 1997, Mac and Katie reunited to release the album From Now On, their last known collaboration featuring all-new material.
Legacy and Influence
While Mac and Katie Kissoon may not be household names today, they made a lasting impact in several ways:
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Chart Success: Multiple hits across the UK, US, and Europe during the 1970s.
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Backing Vocal Pioneers: Especially Katie, who has lent her voice to major albums and tours over five decades.
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Representation: As siblings of Caribbean descent finding success in the UK and international pop scenes, they helped diversify the music industry landscape.
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Enduring Performers: Both maintained musical careers long after their peak as a duo.
Their music remains a nostalgic favorite for many fans of 1970s pop and continues to find airplay on classic hits stations.
Discography Highlights
Top Singles:
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“Chirpy Chirpy Cheep Cheep” (1971) – US #20
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“Sugar Candy Kisses” (1975) – UK #3
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“Don’t Do It Baby” (1975) – UK #9
Albums:
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Mac and Katie Kissoon (1971)
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The Two of Us (1973)
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Sugar Candy Kisses (1975)
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From Now On (1997)
Where Are They Now?
As of the 2020s:
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Katie Kissoon continues to tour and record. She remains an in-demand backing vocalist and vocal coach.
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Mac Kissoon continues to perform, particularly in European markets. He has remained involved in live music for decades.
Their work as individuals and as a duo showcases their versatility and talent beyond their early hits.
Final Thoughts
Mac and Katie Kissoon brought energy, harmony, and infectious pop melodies to the 1970s music scene. While they found success as a duo, their lasting contributions as backing vocalists have made them respected figures in the music industry.
They serve as a reminder of how musical talent can evolve, adapt, and endure well beyond the spotlight.