'What a terrific honour...' Stock Aitken Waterman receive Blue Plaque recognising their contribution to British music

The legendary songwriting and record-producing trio Mike Stock, Matt Aitken and Pete Waterman reunited for the unveiling of their Southwark Heritage Association Blue Plaque outside their former studio - affectionally known as "The Hit Factory" - in Vine Yard, Borough, London, on Wednesday, January 22, 2025. 

Excitement pumped out of the normally quiet little street as dozens of fans from across the country came down to attend the joyous occasion. It became a reality after Paul Smith and Tony King launched a campaign over three years ago for the powerhouse team – who achieved 13 UK number-one singles and are recognised in the Guinness Book of World Records as one the most successful songwriters and producers of all time – to be honoured for their immense contribution to UK music. 

Stock Aitken Waterman – who launched the music careers of Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Rick Astley and many others – also took pictures with their loyal supporters and signed their records and other items. 

Those who attended the special and emotional event will remember it fondly, and BANG Showbiz was there to capture the moment that will go down in UK music history…