Colin was born in Scotland and came to Australia in 1967, when he was 14 years old. He first venture into music was with Ron Strykert with whom he eventually formed Men At Work. The group's name was selected on the way to their regular gig at the Cricketers Arms Hotel in Richmond (in Melbourne), based on a road sign they passed on the way.

In 1981, Men At Work released their first studio album, Business As Usual. The first single "Who Can It Be Now" reached number one in August 1981, with the album reaching the top of the charts for the first time in December 1981. During the next three months, the album spent nine weeks at number 1.

Who Can It Be Now reached number 1 on the US charts in October 1982, followed by the album reaching the top of the US album charts in November. By January 1983, Men At Work had the number one album and single (Down Under) simultaneously in both the USA and the UK - the first time this had been achieved by an Australian act. Down Under had a resurgence in popularity as the unofficial anthem of the successful America's Cup challenge.

After releasing three studio albums, the group disbanded and Colin started a solo career. His first solo album - Looking for Jack - was recorded under the name Colin James Hay (his real full name). Since then, he has reverted to recording as Colin Hay.

Colin is married to Peruvian singer, Cecilia Noel with whom he has performed and recorded on many occasions. He is renowned for his brilliant sense of humour and an ability to not take himself seriously.

Colin is now based in the US but is still a worthy recipient of Dead Set Legend status.