34 – NEW WAVE

By the end of the 1970's, punk had matured and dance music had gotten energized, often blending with each other and incorporating several outside elements to create a vast assortment of unique styles - all labelled new wave. This basic dance-pop/punk fusion could feature elements of other music styles such as reggae, ska, rockabilly, jazz, art rock and techno-pop. Never had there existed at any one time such a diverse collection of sounds filed under one category.

New wave was a scene unto itself. Fashion was extremely important and was actually more unified and stylized than the accompanying music. The 1960's mod look was revived in certain quarters as well as the beatnik styles of the 1950's. Punk influence continued to varying degrees but now colour was essential, often displayed in fluorescent Day-glo paint-splattered shirts. Dark glasses were a must and skinny ties were popular. The seminal Canadian new wave band Rough Trade helped promote the popularity of shoulder pads. Males for the most part kept their hair short, often applying mousse and pastel dyed streaks. Sometimes skinny braids were grown at the nape of the neck and decorated with colourful beads and ribbons. The words "cool" and "mod" once again became part of the vocabulary.

As the 1980's progressed, the term new wave was abandoned and many other new music styles were incorporated under the umbrella of alternative music. A confusing, all encompassing label, it has remained well into the 1990's, basically designating all of the numerous radical and non mainstream music styles and specifically grunge (see The Nineties).

It would have been futile to attempt any categorization of the following artists. Each act had a truly unique musical identity, often evolving, crossing musical boundaries and ultimately defying classification.

THE TUBES

• Theatrical rock group originating in Phoenix, Arizona, later moving to San Francisco, California featuring lead singer Fee Waybill (John Waldo) (Sept. 17, 1950 – ) born in Omaha, Nebraska.
• Originally the merging of two groups - The Beans and Red, White And Blues.
• Consisting of Waybill (aka: Quay Lewd), bassist Rick Anderson, keyboardist Vince Welnick (Feb. 21, 1951 – ), guitarist Bill "Sputnick" Spooner (April 16, 1949 – ), drummer Prairie Prince (May 7, 1950 – ), synthesizer player Michael Cotton (Jan. 25, 1950 – ), percussionist Mingo Lewis, guitarist Roger Steen (Nov. 13, 1949 – ) and singer/guitarist Re Styles (March 30, 1950 – ).
• Their daring stage show included elaborate costuming and choreography - often x-rated.
• Aug., 1975 - Released their debut album, "The Tubes."
• Other albums include "Young And Rich"(1976), "Remote Control" (1979), "Outside Inside"(1983) and "Love Bomb"(1986).
• Hits include "Mondo Bondage"(1975), "Don't Touch Me There"(Aug., 1976)#61, "White Punks On Dope"(Nov., 1977)#28 UK, "Prime Time" (May, 1979)#34 UK, "Don't Want To Wait Anymore"(June, 1981)#35 and "She's A Beauty"(April, 1983)#10.
• Other notable tracks include "What Do You Want From Life?"
• Waybill enjoyed a minor solo hit with "You're Still Laughing" (Sept., 1984).

TIM CURRY

• (April 19, 1946 – )
• Singer/actor born in Cheshire, England.
• 1975 - Curry will forever be associated with his performance as Dr. Frank-N-Furter in the classic "Rocky Horror Picture Show."
• Film appearances include "Times Square"(1980), "Annie"(1982), "Legend"(1985), "Blue Money,"(1984) and Clue"(1986).
• In the 1990's, appeared regularly on TV's "Roseanne."
• Hits include "Sweet Transvestite"(1975), "Birds Of A Feather" (1978) and "I Do The Rock"(Nov., 1979)#91.

TALKING HEADS

• David Byrne (May 14, 1952 – )
• Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Dumbarton, Scotland.
• Tina Weymouth (Nov. 22, 1950 – )
• Bassist/singer born in Coronado, California.
• Chris Frantz (May 8, 1951 – )
• Drummer born in Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
• 1970 - Byrne and Frantz formed The Artistics (aka: The Autistics) at The Rhode Island School Of Design.
• 1974 - Byrne formed the avant-garde rock trio Talking Heads at The Rhode Island School Of Design. Other names considered were Vague Dots and Portable Crushers.
• Heavily influenced by Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground.
• Later, they became a quartet with the addition of ex-Modern Lover keyboardist Jerry Harrison (Feb. 21, 1949 – ).
• 1976 - Signed with Sire Records.
• 1977 - Weymouth and Frantz married.
• 1977 - Released their debut album, "Talking Heads."
• The key to the band's musical and visual style and direction was Byrne, a unique performance artist of the first magnitude whose distinctive vocals and psycho-nerd persona dominated the stage.
• Originally stressing an "economy of sound" platform, their style evolved radically over a period of time, finally coming to terms with Byrne's obsession with Latin rhythms. The group later incorporated a brass section, percussionists and several backup vocalists into a well crafted stage presentation.
• April 24, 1987 - The sheer energy of a Talking Heads performance was captured in the concert film, "Stop Making Sense."
• The group also dabbled in several other projects including Frantz and Weymouth's studio band The Tom Tom Club formed in 1981. A funky electropop unit, they struck commercial paydirt with "Genius Of Love"(Jan., 1982)#2 R&B, #31. They later released the album, "The Good The Bad And The Funky" in 2000.
• Harrison formed Casual Gods and Byrne went solo.
• Albums include "Fear Of Music"(1979), "Remain In Light"(1980), "The Name Of The Band Is Talking Heads"(1981), "Little Creatures" (1985) and "Naked"(1988).
• Hits include "Psycho Killer"(Feb., 1978)#92, "Take Me To The River"(Nov., 1978)#26, "Life During Wartime"(Nov., 1979)#80, "Burning Down The House"(July, 1983)#9, "Once In A Lifetime" (April, 1986)#91, "Wild Wild Life"(Sept., 1986)#25 and "Radio Head"(May, 1987)#16 UK.

TELEVISION

• Tom Verlaine (Thomas Miller) (Dec. 13, 1949 – )
• Guitarist/singer/songwriter born in Delaware.
• 1968 - Formed The Neon Boys consisting of Verlaine, drummer Billy Ficca and bassist Richard Hell (Richard Myers) (Oct. 2, 1949 – ).
• March, 1974 - Became the influential group Television with the inclusion of guitarist Richard Lloyd.
• Hell started a trend for ripped clothing.
• Mid, 1975 - Bassist/singer Fred Smith (ex-Blondie) replaced Hell. Hell formed The Voidoids in 1976.
• Their debut recording was the "Little Johnny Jewel" single.
• 1977 - Their critically acclaimed "Marquee Moon" album was a commercial failure yet remains a collector's item.
• 1978 - Split after making the album, "Adventure."
• 1991 - Re-united briefly.
• Verlaine's solo recordings include "Dreamtime"(1981), "Words From The Front"(1982) and "Flash Light"(1987).
• Sept., 1992 - Television released their comeback album, "Television."
• Hits include "Prove It"(Aug., 1977)#25 UK, "Foxhole"(April, 1978) #36 UK, "Blank Generation" and "Love Comes In Spurts."

BLONDIE

• Debbie Harry (Deborah Harry) (July 1, 1945 – )
• Singer/songwriter/actress born in Miami, Florida, raised in Hawthorne, New Jersey.
• Chris Stein (Jan. 5, 1950 – )
• Guitarist/songwriter born in Brooklyn, New York.
• 1968 - Harry sang with a band called Wind In The Willows, later working as a beautician, a waitress at Max's Kansas City and Playboy Bunny.
• 1972 - With Stein, Harry formed the campy new wave group The Stilettoes.
• 1975 - Harry and Stein formed Blondie with guitarist Gary Valentine, keyboardist Jimmy Destri (April 13, 1954 – ), bassist Nigel Harrison and drummer Clem Burke (Clement Burke) (Nov. 24, 1955 – ).
• 1976 - They were discovered at CBGB's by songwriter Richie Gottehrer.
• Managed by Peter Leeds, they were signed to Private Stock.
• 1977 - Toured with David Bowie and Iggy Pop.
• July, 1977 - Valentine was replaced by Frank Infante.
• 1977 - Signed with Chrysalis Records.
• 1978 - The band had initially emerged with a distinct punk identity but with the release of their blockbuster "Parallel Lines" album and the hit single, "Heart Of Glass"(Feb., 1979)#1, they had become new wave innovators by infusing punk with dance elements.
• They became the darlings of the media and Harry the new wave sex symbol. She remains a considerable influence on numerous female rock artists.
• During their heyday, Blondie experimented heavily with reggae ("The Tide Is High"), techno-pop ("Call Me") and rap ("Rapture").
• 1981 - Harry embarked on a solo recording career. She also appeared in several films including "Roadie"(1980), "Videodrome" (1983) and "Hairspray"(1988).
• 1983 - Blondie disbanded.
• 1983-1986 - Harry retired to help boyfriend Stein recover from illness. When she returned to music in 1986, her career had lost its momentum and her position as rock goddess had been usurped by Madonna.
• 1998 - Blondie reformed, releasing the "No Exit" album featuring the hit, "Maria" in 1999.
• Sept., 2001 - All of the Blondie albums were remastered and released with bonus tracks.
• Blondie hits include "One Way Or Another"(June, 1979)#24, "Dreaming"(Sept., 1979)#27, "Call Me"(Feb., 1980)#1-6 wks., "Atomic"(May, 1980)#39, "The Tide Is High"(Nov., 1980)#1, "Rapture"(Jan., 1981)#1-2 wks. and "Island Of Lost Souls"(May, 1982)#37.
• Other classic tracks include "Rip Her To Shreds," "A Shark In Jet's Clothing," "Attack Of The Giant Ants," "Fade Away And Radiate," "Denis" and "Hanging On The Telephone."
• Harry solo hits include "Backfired"(Aug., 1981)#43, "Rush Rush" (Dec., 1983) (from the film, "Scarface"), "French Kissin'"(Nov., 1986)#57, "Liar Liar"(Aug., 1988) (from the film, "Married To The Mob") and "I Want That Man"(Nov., 1989).

DEVO

• 1975 - Robotic techno-pop group formed in Akron, Ohio.
• Put together by brothers Bob (guitar) and Mark Mothersbaugh (1950 – ) (vocals).
• Consisting of the Mothersbaugh brothers, guitarist/keyboardist Bob Casale (1953 – ), bassist Gerald Casale (1949 – ) and drummer Alan Meyers.
• The group's name was derived from "de-evolution."
• They described their sound as "regimented rhythmic music made by 97 pound weaklings."
• 1975 - Created a pioneer prize-winning video.
• Famous for their outrageous mechanical stage choreography and equally strange stage costuming. They often dressed as droid janitors or donned flower pot hats and plastic wigs.
• Hits include "Girl You Want"(1980), "Whip It"(Aug., 1980)#14 and "Working In The Coal Mine"(Sept., 1981)#43.
• Other classic tracks include "Jocko Homo"(1976) and "Satisfaction"(1977).

ADAM & THE ANTS

• Adam Ant (Stuart Leslie Goddard) (Nov. 3, 1954 – )
• Singer/actor born in London, England.
• Played in the London based groups, Bazooka and Joe & The B-Sides.
• 1976 - Formed the new wave/glitter band in London, England.
• Consisting of Ant, bassist Andy Warren, guitarist Lester Square, drummer Barbarossa and guitarist Matthew Ashman.
• The band's stage image was a colourful fusion of pirate and American Indian garb complete with warpaint and ruffled shirts.
• Their sound was strictly pop punk.
• 1980 - Barbarossa and Ashman left to join Malcolm McLaren's new creation Bow Wow Wow.
• 1980 - Guitarist Marco Pirroni joined.
• May 2, 1982 - Adam Ant went solo, later appearing in several films including "Slam Dance"(1987) and "World Gone Wild"(1988).
• Hits include "Antmusic"(Dec., 1980)#2 UK, "Kings Of The Wild Frontier"(Feb., 1981)#1 UK, "Stand And Deliver"(May, 1981)#1 UK and "Prince Charming"(Sept., 1981)#1 UK.
• Other classic tracks include "Whip In My Valise," "Young Parisians," "Xerox" and "Dog Eat Dog."
• Adam Ant solo hits include "Goody Two Shoes"(Nov., 1982)#12 and "Room At The Top"(March, 1990)#17.

ELVIS COSTELLO

• Declan Patrick MacManus (Aug. 25, 1954 – )
• Singer/songwriter/guitarist/producer born in London, England.
• Son of singer/bandleader Ross MacManus.
• 1975 - Sang in the pub-rock band Flip City.
• 1976 - Changed his name to Elvis Costello.
• His early style was a kind of literate punk.
• He later ventured into new wave, folk and country.
• March 26, 1977 - Released his debut single, "Less Than Zero."
• 1977 - His "My Aim Is True" album featuring the pub band Clover and produced by Nick Lowe was released.
• Formed his backup band The Attractions consisting of drummer Pete Thomas, keyboardist Steve Nieve and bassist Bruce Thomas.
• 1978 - Released the "This Year's Model" album.
• 1980 - Costello and his manager Jake Riviera formed the F-Beat label.
• 1985 - Split with The Attractions after the "Blood And Chocolate" album.
• 1994-1996 - Reunited with The Attractions.
• Albums include "Get Happy"(1980), "Almost Blue"(1981), "Mighty Like Rose"(1991), "The Juliet Letters"(1993) and "All This Useless Beauty"(1996).
• Hits include "Alison"(1977), "Watching The Detectives" (Nov., 1977)#15 UK, "(I Don't Wanna Go To) Chelsea"(March, 1978)#16 UK, "Oliver's Army"(Feb., 1979)#2 UK, "I Can't Stand Up For Falling Down"(Feb., 1980)#4 UK, "A Good Year For The Roses"(Oct., 1981)#6 UK, "Everyday I Write The Book"(Aug., 1983)#36 US and "Veronica" (April, 1989)#19 US.

GRACE JONES

• (May 19, 1952 – )
• Singer/model/actress/performance artist born in Spanish Town, Jamaica.
• Daughter of a Pentecostal minister and niece of a bishop.
• 1964 - Moved to Syracuse, New York.
• During the 1970's, she became a top model and covergirl.
• Jones began her music career as a disco singer, later venturing into new wave and reggae.
• Became the first singer to perform live at Studio 54 in New York City.
• Famous for her striking androgynous appearance.
• Jones' crowning achievement was her impressive "One Man Show."
• Film appearances include "Conan The Destroyer"(1984), "A View To A Kill"(1985) and "Vamp"(1986).
• Hits include "I Need A Man"(May, 1977)#83, "Warm Leatherette" (1980), "Private Life"(1980), "Nipple To The Bottle"(Oct., 1982), "Slave To The Rhythm"(Oct., 1985) and "I'm Not Perfect"(Nov., 1986)#69.
• Other classic tracks include "Pull Up To The Bumper" and "Nightclubbing."

MINK DeVILLE

• New York R&B/punk band featuring Latin elements.
• Willy DeVille (William Boray) (Aug. 27, 1953 – )
• Singer from New York City.
• Formed Mink DeVille, a New York City R&B/punk band featuring Latin elements.
• The band was dependent on the earthy blues vocals of DeVille.
• 1980 - Appeared on the soundtrack of the Al Pacino film, "Cruising." Songs include "It's So Easy" and "In The Heat Of The Moment."
• Hits include "Cadillac Walk"(1977), "Spanish Stroll"(1981) and "Each Word's A Beat Of My Heart"(Feb., 1984)#89.

DALBELLO

• Lisa DalBello (May 22, 1959 – )
• Singer/songwriter from Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada.
• Worked as a regular on CBC TV's "Music Machine."
• 1977 - Her debut LP was released, produced by David Foster.
• 1978 - Won the Juno Award for Best New Female Vocalist and the Cashbox Award for Most Promising New Female Artist.
• A hypnotic stage performer, she is famous for her unique powerful vocals, striking good looks and her outrageous eyebrows.
• Writing credits include "Pretty Girls"(1979) (Melissa Manchester), "Gonna Get Close To You"(1986) (Queensryche) and "Black On Black"(1993) (Heart).
• 1984 - Shortened her stage name to Dalbello.
• Became more famous in Europe than in her own country.
• Hits include "Snow White"(1977), "Pretty Girls"(Oct., 1978), "She Wants To Know"(April, 1981), "Never Get To Heaven"(Aug., 1981), "Gonna Get Close To You"(May, 1984), "Animal"(Dec., 1984) (with Carole Pope), "Tango"(Dec.,1988) and "Talk To Me"(May, 1989).

KATE BUSH

• Catherine Bush (July 30, 1958 – )
• Singer/songwriter/pianist/dancer born in Welling, England.
• Studied violin and piano.
• 1969 - Age 11, began composing.
• Studied dance and mime with Lindsay Kemp.
• 1973 - Age 15, wrote her first hit, "Wuthering Heights."
• 1974 - Age 16, discovered by David Gilmour of Pink Floyd.
• 1977 - Released her debut album, "The Kick Inside" featuring the astounding "Wuthering Heights"(Feb., 1978)#1-4 wks. UK, inspired by Emily Bronte's classic novel. The single gave Bush the opportunity to showcase her 4 octave range.
• 1978 - The Melody Maker voted her Female Vocalist Of The Year.
• April 3, 1979 - Gave her first live concert at The Liverpool Empire.
• 1980 - Formed her own management company.
• 1985 - Released "The Hounds Of Love" album featuring a 25 minute suite concerning Celtic mythology. Her brother Paddy Bush played balalaika, fujare and dijeridu on the album.
• 1986 - Released her #1 UK album, "The Whole Story."
• Bush, the definitive performance artist possesses a voice of remarkable range and drama, a dancer's body, graceful choreography and striking good looks.
• Hits include "The Man With The Child In His Eyes"(June, 1978)#6 UK, (Feb., 1979)#85 US, "Wow"(March, 1979)#14 UK, "Babooshka" (July, 1980)#5 UK, "The Dreaming"(Aug., 1982)#48 UK, "Running Up That Hill"(Sept., 1985)#30 US, "Experiment IV"(Nov., 1986) and "Don't Give Up"(April, 1987)#72 US (with Peter Gabriel).

SQUEEZE

• 1973 - Pop/rock band formed in England.
• Originally called UK Squeeze.
• Led by singer/guitarist/lyricist Chris Difford (April 11, 1954 – ) and guitarist/singer/songwriter Glenn Tilbrook (Aug. 31, 1957 – ).
• Consisting of Difford, Tilbrook, keyboardist/singer Jools Holland (Julian Holland) (Jan. 24, 1958 – ), bassist Harry Kakoulli and session drummer Gilson Lavis (June 27, 1951 – ).
• 1981 - Paul Carrack (April, 1951 – ) (later of Ace and Mike & The Mechanics) joined as lead singer when Holland left to form The Millionaires.
• 1982 - Don Snow (Jan. 13, 1957 – ) replaced Carrack.
• Their forte was quirky, catchy pop songs.
• 1982 - Split with Difford And Tillbrook recording a solo album.
• 1983 - Re-formed with new bassist Bob Wilkinson.
• Later albums include "Cosi Fan Tutti Frutti"(1985), "Babylon And On"(1987), "Play"(1991), "Some Fantastic Place"(1993) and "Ridiculous"(1995).
• Hits include "Take Me I'm Yours"(April, 1978)#19 UK, "Another Nail In My Heart"(March, 1980)#17 UK, "Pulling Mussels (From The Shell)"(May, 1980)#44 UK, "Annie Get Your Gun"(Oct., 1982)#43 UK and "Hourglass"(Sept., 1987)#15 US.
• Other classic tracks include "Cool For Cats"(1979), "Up The Junction"(1979) and "Tough Love"(1987).

IAN DURY & THE BLOCKHEADS

• Ian Dury (May 12, 1942 - March 26, 2000)
• Singer/songwriter born in Billericay, Essex, England.
• 1949 - Age 7, stricken with polio.
• A former art teacher.
• 1971 - Formed Kilburn & The High Roads, releasing the "Handsome" album in 1974.
• 1975 - Began working with pianist/songwriter Chas Jankel, recording as Ian Dury & The Blockheads with members of Kilburn & The High Roads.
• The pub-rock outfit was famous for their funky British Music Hall styled material featuring x-rated lyrics.
• 1977 - Released the notorious "New Boots And Panties" album.
• 1981 - His single, "Spasticus Autisticus" was banned by the BBC.
• 1985 - Dury recorded "Profoundly In Love With Pandora," the theme from the British TV series, "The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4."
• Dury appeared in the films, "Pirates"(1986) and "Apples"(1989).
• March 26, 2000 - Died of cancer.
• Hits include "Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick"(Dec., 1978)#1 UK and "I Want To Be Straight"(Aug., 1980)#22 UK.
• Other notable tracks include "Wake Up And Make Love With Me" (1977), "Sex And Drugs And Rock And Roll"(1977) and "Reasons To Be Cheerful (Part 3)"(1979).

THE CARS

• 1976 - Pop/rock quintet formed in Boston, Massachusetts.
• Consisting of Ric Ocasek (Richard Otcasek) (March 23, 1949 – ) (lead vocals/guitar), Elliot Easton (Elliot Shapiro) (Dec. 18, 1953 – ) (guitar), David Robinson (drums), Greg Hawkes (keys) and Benjamin Orr (Benjamin Orzechowski) (Aug. 9, 1955 – ) (bass/vocals).
• 1972 - Orr and Ocasek had recorded for Paramount in the folk group Milkwood.
• 1976 - The Cars debuted at The Rat Club in Boston, Massachusetts.
• Most of the catchy, accessible material was composed by Ocasek.
• The group benefitted from the use of innovative videos.
• 1983 - Ocasek began recording solo.
• 1988 - The Cars disbanded.
• 1988 - Ocasek appeared in the cult film, "Hairspray."
• Hits include "My Best Friend's Girl"(Oct., 1978)#35, "Shake It Up"(Nov., 1981)#4, "You Might Think"(March, 1984)#7, "Drive" (Aug., 1984)#3 and "Tonight She Comes"(Nov., 1985)#7.
• Ocasek solo hits include "Something To Grab For"(Feb., 1983)#47 and "Emotion In Motion"(Sept., 1986)#15.
• Orr enjoyed one charted solo hit with "Stay The Night"(Nov., 1986)#24.

THE POLICE/STING

• Sting (Gordon Matthew Sumner) (Oct. 2, 1951 – )
• Singer/songwriter/bassist/actor born in Wallsend, Northumberland, England.
• Nicknamed Sting because of the yellow and black striped sweater he wore in the early days.
• Andy Summers (Dec. 31, 1942 – )
• Guitarist born in Blackpool, Lancashire, England.
• Stewart Copeland (July 16, 1952 – )
• Drummer born in Alexandria, Egypt.
• Copeland had recorded with Curved Air.
• 1977 - Sting and Copeland backed American punk artist Cherry Vanilla at The Roxy.
• 1977 - The Police was formed with original guitarist Henri Padovani, replaced that same year by Summers. As The Police, they made their debut at The Mont De Marsan Festival in France.
• Aug. 18, 1977 - Played their first gig with the definitive lineup.
• The basic sound of the group was a curious mixture of reggae, pop and punk dominated by Sting's emotional vocals.
• 1980 - Their "Zenyatta Mondatta" album sold over 500,000 copies in Britain and over 3 million in the U.S.
• 1985 - Sting went solo, also pursuing an acting career, appearing in several films including "Quadrophenia"(1979), "Dune"(1984) and "The Bride"(1985).
• Hits include "Roxanne"(Feb., 1979)#32, "Message In A Bottle" (Nov., 1979)#74, "De Do Do Do, De Da Da Da"(Oct., 1980)#10, "Don't Stand So Close To Me"(Feb., 1981)#10, "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic"(Sept., 1981)#3, "Every Breath You Take"(June, 1983)#1-8 wks., "King Of Pain"(Aug., 1983)#3 and "Wrapped Around Your Finger"(Jan., 1984)#8.
• Sting solo hits include "If You Love Somebody, Set Them Free" (June, 1985)#3, "Fortress Around Your Heart"(Aug., 1985)#8, "We'll Be Together"(Oct., 1987)#7, "Be Still My Beating Heart" (Jan., 1988)#15, "All This Time"(Feb., 1991), "If I Ever Lose My Faith In You"(1993), "Fields Of Gold"(1993), "All For Love"(1994) (with Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams) and "Desert Rose"(2000).

ROUGH TRADE/CAROLE POPE

• Carole Pope (Aug. 6, 1949 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Manchester, England.
• 1953 - Age 4, moved to Scarborough, Ontario, Canada.
• 1969 - Formed a band called "O" with keyboardist/guitarist/ songwriter Kevan Staples.
• 1971 - Together they performed as The Bullwhip Brothers.
• 1974 - Pope and Staples formed the influential rock group Rough Trade.
• 1976 - Released a direct to disc album, "Umbrella - Rough Trade Live" including the classic Pope/Staples composition "Birds Of A Feather."
• Pope became known as "The Godmother Of New Wave."
• 1978 - Tim Curry recorded their "Birds Of A Feather."
• 1979 - Pope and Staples composed 3 songs for the Al Pacino film, "Cruising" including "Shakedown."
• 1980 - Released their classic "Avoid Freud" album in Canada.
• March, 1981 - Their titillating "High School Confidential" became a huge Canadian hit and a worldwide cult classic.
• Pope, a definitive influence on many vocalists, possessed the earthiest voice since Mae West, served up with a witty tongue-in- cheek delivery. She won Canada's Juno Award for Female Vocalist Of The Year in both 1983 and 1984 and collected 4 Casby Awards.
• 1989 - Pope moved to Los Angeles to pursue a solo career.
• Dec., 1994 - Rough Trade reunion concert at The Phoenix in Toronto proved that the music was still miles ahead of its time.
• 1995 - Back in Canada, Pope released a solo EP titled "Radiate" featuring "You Can't Go Back."
• Oct., 2000 - Pope's autobiography, "Anti-Diva" was released.
• 2001 - A new dance version of "High School Confidential" was featured on the "Queer As Folk" soundtrack.
• Note: One of Pope's best efforts was a heavy duty rock opus titled "Driven By Compulsion."
• Hits include "Fashion Victim"(1980), "All Touch"(Dec., 1982)#58 US, "Bodies In Collision"(1982), "Crimes Of Passion"(1982), "Weapons"(Sept., 1983), "Territorial" (April, 1984), "Sexual Outlaw"(Oct., 1984) and "On The Line"(Jan., 1985).

MARTHA & THE MUFFINS/M+M

• 1977 - Rock outfit formed in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
• Sparse, art rock group featuring Martha Johnson (Dec. 18, 1950 – ) and Mark Gane (Dec. 17, 1953 – ).
• Signed with Virgin Records after being heard by Andy Warhol.
• 1983 - They became the more dance oriented M+M.
• Hits include "Insect Love"(1979), "Echo Beach"(March, 1980)#10 UK, "Paint By Number Heart"(1980), "Women Around The World At Work"(1981), "Danseparc"(Feb., 1983), "Black Stations/White Stations"(June, 1984)#63 US and "Cooling The Medium"(Sept., 1984).

LENE LOVICH

• Marlene Premilovich (March 30, 1954 – )
• Singer/songwriter/saxophonist/performance artist born in Detroit, Michigan.
• Raised in Hull, England.
• 1975-1977 - With guitarist Les Chappell, worked in a soul dance band called The Diversions.
• 1977 - Supported herself by playing sax with The Carnival Orchestra and dubbing screams for horror films.
• 1978 - Appeared in the film, "Cha Cha" with singer/songwriter/producer Herman Brood and German punk singer Nina Hagen.
• 1978 - Signed to Stiff Records.
• Oct., 1978 - Her debut album, "Stateless" was released.
• Lovich's stage performances consisted of techno-pop music combined with outrageous vocal acrobatics and screwball stage antics, altogether delightful and innovative.
• Hits include "Lucky Number"(Feb., 1979)#3 UK, "Say When"(May, 1979)#19 UK, "Bird Song"(Oct., 1979)#39 UK, "What Will I Do Without You"(March, 1980)#58 UK and "New Toy"(March, 1981)#53 UK.

XTC

• 1977 - British new wave rock unit formed in Swindon in West England.
• Consisting of Andy Partridge (Nov. 11, 1953 – ) (guitar/ synthesizer), Colin Moulding (Aug. 17, 1955 – ) (bass), Dave Gregory (guitar/keys), Terry Chambers (July 18, 1955 – ) (drums) and Barry Andrews (Sept. 12, 1956 – ) (keys) (ex-King Crimson).
• Quirky thoughtful material set to sparse accompaniment.
• Dec. 30, 1981 - Played their first U.S. concert in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
• Hits include "Making Plans For Nigel"(Sept., 1979)#17 UK, "Senses Working Overtime"(Jan., 1982)#10 UK, "Ball And Chain"(March, 1982)#58 UK and "The Mayor Of Simpleton"(April, 1989)#72 US.

THE BOOMTOWN RATS

• Bob Geldof (Robert Frederick Zenon Geldof) (Oct. 5, 1954 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Dun Leoghaire, Ireland.
• Worked as a journalist in Canada.
• 1976 - Joined The Nitelife Things in Dublin.
• 1976 - Became The Boomtown Rats, the name taken from Woody Guthrie's "Bound For Glory."
• Consisting of Geldof, guitarist Gerry Roberts, guitarist Gerry Cott, keyboardist Johnny Fingers, bassist Pete Briquette (Patrick Cusack) (July 2, 1954 – ) and drummer Simon Crowe.
• 1977 - Released their debut single, "Looking After No. 1."
• July, 1979 - Their recording of "I Don't Like Mondays" went to #1 UK, (Feb., 1980)#73 US.
• 1981 - Cott exited.
• The group continued unsuccessfully for several more years. However, Geldof's solo career took precedence.
• Geldof was the driving force behind Band Aid (1984) and Live Aid (1985) (benefit recordings and concerts for African famine relief - see Eighties Revue). He later became a Nobel Peace Prize Nominee.
• July 24, 1986 - Geldof received honorary knighthood.
• 1987 - Geldof released his autobiography, "Is This It?"
• Hits include "Like Clockwork"(June, 1978)#6 UK, "Rat Trap"(Oct., 1978)#1 UK, "Someone's Looking At You"(Jan., 1980)#4 UK and "Banana Republic"(Nov., 1980)#3 UK.
• Geldof's only charted solo hit was "This Is The World Calling" (Dec., 1986)#82 US from his "Deep In The Heart Of Nowhere" LP.

THE KNACK

• 1978 - Power pop quartet formed in Los Angeles, California.
• Consisting of Doug Fieger (Aug. 20, 1952 – ) (vocals/ guitar), Berton Averre (lead guitar), Prescott Niles (May 2, 1954 – ) (bass) and Bruce Gary (April 7, 1952 – ) (drums).
• Heavily influenced by The Beatles, their debut album, "Get The Knack"(1979) sported a cover reminiscent of the "With The Beatles" jacket.
• It had been speculated that The Knack was a fabricated group similar to The Monkees. Regardless, their first album was a definite winner, chock full of strong, well written, well performed pop/rock songs.
• July, 1979 - Their recording of "My Sharona" went to #1-6 wks.
• Unfortunately, their second album did not live up to the hype.
• 1982 - Disbanded, reuniting briefly in 1986.
• Hits include "Good Girls Don't"(Sept., 1979)#11 and "Baby Talks Dirty"(Feb., 1980)#38.

PAYOLAS/PAUL HYDE

• Canadian rock outfit featuring singer/songwriter Paul Hyde and guitarist/keyboardist/songwriter Bob Rock.
• Produced by Mick Ronson, the band won many awards in Canada.
• 1986 - Rock and Hyde formed a duo.
• Hits include "China Boys"(April, 1980), "Eyes Of A Stranger"(May, 1982), "Where Is This Love"(Dec., 1983) and "Never Said I Love You"(Aug., 1983) (with Carole Pope).
• Rock And Hyde hits include "Dirty Water"(Feb., 1987), "I Will" (1987) and "Talk To Me"(Nov., 1987).

VISAGE

• British techno-pop project headed by Midge Ure (James Ure) (Oct. 10, 1954 – ) and new-romantic fashion plate frontman Steve Strange (Steve Harrington) (May 28, 1959 – ).
• Ure was the frontman for Ultravox.
• Combination of artsy glitter rock and new wave.
• By the year 2000, Strange was unemployed, living with his mother and fighting several charges of petty theft.
• Hits include "Fade To Grey"(Dec., 1980)#8 UK, "Mind Of A Toy" (March, 1981)#13 UK, "Night Train"(1982) and "Damned Don't Cry" (March, 1982)#11 UK.

ULTRAVOX/MIDGE URE

• Midge Ure (James Ure) (Oct. 10, 1953 – )
• Singer/songwriter/guitarist born in Cambuslang, Scotland.
• 1976 - Electro-rock quintet Ultravox formed in Britain.
• Consisting of bassist Chris Cross (Christopher St. John) (July 14, 1952 – ), keyboardist/violinist/synthesizer player Billy Currie (May 20, 1952 – ), singer John Foxx (Dennis Leigh), guitarist Steve Shears and drummer Warren Cann (May 20, 1952 – ).
• 1976 - Released their debut album.
• 1978 - Shears was replaced by Robin Simon.
• 1979 - Foxx went solo replaced by Ure (ex-Slik).
• 1980 - Released the "Vienna" album.
• The group developed a smooth airy pop/rock sound dominated by droning synthesizers.
• During the early 1980's, Ure also worked in the new-romantic studio band Visage.
• 1988 - Lead singer Ure went solo.
• 1993 - Ultravox reunited unsuccessfully and released the album, "Revelation."
• Ultravox hits include "Sleepwalk"(July, 1980)#29 UK, "Vienna" (Jan., 1981)#2 UK, "Reap The Wild Wind"(April, 1983)#71 US and "Dancing With Tears In My Eyes"(May, 1984)#3 UK.
• 1984 - Ure was co-writer of Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas."
• Ure's only charted American hit was "Dear God"(March, 1989)#95.
• Foxx solo albums include "Metamatic"(1980) and "The Garden" (1981).

JOY DIVISION

• Jan., 1977 - Influential rock quartet formed in Manchester, England.
• Originally called Stiff Kittens then Warsaw.
• Late, 1977 - Became Joy Division, taking their name from the Nazi concentration camp prostitutes in the novel, "House Of Dolls."
• Consisting of black clad beatnik singer Ian Curtis (July 15, 1956 - May 18, 1980), guitarist Bernard Albrecht (Bernard Dicken) (aka: Bernard Sumner) (Jan. 4, 1956 – ), drummer Steven Morris (Oct. 28, 1957 – ) and bassist Peter Hook (Feb. 13, 1956 – ).
• Their forte was songs of gloom and doom. Much of the material resembled funeral dirges yet the effect was incredibly hypnotic.
• 1978 - Released the "An Ideal For Living" EP.
• 1979 - Released their extremely tense "Unknown Pleasures" album.
• Their classic "Love Will Tear Us Apart" hit the British charts twice - (June, 1980)#13 and (Oct., 1983)#19.
• 1980 - Released the "Closer" album.
• May 18, 1980 - Curtis, who suffered from epilepsy, hanged himself in his Manchester home on the eve of the band's first U.S. tour.
• After Curtis' suicide, the band recruited keyboardist Gillian Gilbert and renamed themselves New Order.
• Albums include "Unknown Pleasures"(1979) and "Still"(1981).

NEW ORDER

• 1980 - Techno-dance quartet formed in Manchester, England.
• Evolved from Joy Division after the death of singer Ian Curtis.
• Consisting of keyboardist Gillian Gilbert (Jan. 27, 1961 – ), guitarist Bernard Albrecht (Bernard Dicken) (aka: Bernard Sumner) (Jan. 4, 1956 – ), drummer Steven Morris (Oct. 28, 1957 – ) and bassist Peter Hook (Feb. 13, 1956 – ).
• 1985 - Released what is considered to be their best batch of songs, the "Low-Life" album.
• 1990 - Sumner was in the group Electronic.
• Hits include "Temptation"(1982), "Blue Monday"(1983), "True Faith"(Oct., 1987)#32, "Blue Monday 1988"(April, 1988)#68 and "Round & Round"(April, 1989)#64.

GARY NUMAN

• Gary Anthony James Webb (March 8, 1958 – )
• Singer/songwriter/synthesizer player/guitarist/performance artist born in Hammersmith, London, England.
• 1977 - Began in several groups such as Meanstreet.
• 1979 - Served as the guitarist for the punk group The Lasers. The band later evolved into Tubeway Army, cutting 2 singles for Beggar's Banquet.
• 1979 - Numan released the "Tubeway Army" album.
• 1979 - Numan provided songs for the Robert Palmer album, "The Clue."
• His forte was stark synthesizer dominated dance pop.
• Famous for his futuristic space cadet image.
• 1984 - Formed his Numa label.
• 2003 - Released the "Hybrid" album featuring 3 new songs and re- worked versions of classic tracks such as "Cars" and "Down In The Park."
• Hits include "Are Friends Electric"(May, 1979)#1 UK, "Cars" (Sept., 1979)#1 UK, (Feb., 1980)#9, "I Die : You Die"(1980), "We Are Glass"(May, 1980)#5 UK, "This Wreckage"(Jan., 1981)#20 UK, "She's Got Claws"(Sept., 1981)#6 UK, "Warriors"(Sept., 1983)#20 UK and "I Can't Stop"(June, 1986)#27 UK.

DEPECHE MODE

• 1980 - Techno-pop group formed in Basildon, Essex, England.
• Originally called Composition Of Sound.
• Consisting of keyboardist Vince Clarke (July 6, 1961 – ), drummer/songwriter Martin Gore (July 23, 1961 – ) and guitarist Andy Fletcher (July 8, 1961 – ).
• The group's name is French for "Fast Fashion."
• All material was written by Gore.
• Dec. 1, 1981 - Clarke left to form Yazoo (Yaz) with Alison Moyet, replaced by Alan Wilder (June 1, 1963 – ). David Gahan (May 9, 1962 – ) joined as singer.
• April, 1981 - Their debut single, "Dreaming Of Me" went to #57 UK.
• 1993 - Their "Songs Of Faith And Devotion" went to #1 UK an #1 US.
• Aug. 17, 1995 - Gahan made a suicide attempt.
• June, 2001 - Released the long awaited "Exciter" album.
• Hits include "Just Can't Get Enough"(Sept., 1981)#8 UK, "People Are People"(March, 1984)#4 UK, (May, 1985)#13 US, "Master And Servant"(Sept., 1984)#9 UK, (Sept., 1985)#87 US, "Route 66/Behind The Wheel"(May, 1988)#61 US, "Enjoy The Silence"(April, 1990)#8 US, "Policy Of Truth"(Aug., 1990)#15 US and "In Your Room"(Jan., 1994)#8 UK.

THE B-52'S

• 1976 - New wave dance/pop act formed in Athens, Georgia.
• Consisting of guitarist Keith Strickland (Oct. 26, 1953 – ), drummer Ricky Wilson (March 19, 1953 - Oct. 12, 1985), singer/ keyboardist Fred Schneider II (July 1, 1951 – ) and vocalists Kate Pierson (April 27, 1948 – ) and Cindy Wilson (Feb. 28, 1957 – ).
• Ricky and Cindy Wilson are brother and sister.
• B-52 is a slang term for the beehive hairstyles worn by the two females.
• Feb., 1977 - Performed for the first time live.
• Their style was quirky futuristic punk bordering on high camp. Later, their material became much more commercially accessible.
• Two early recordings, "Planet Claire"(1980) and "Rock Lobster" (Aug., 1979)#37 UK, (April, 1980)#56 became immediate cult classics.
• Oct. 12, 1985 - Ricky Wilson died of AIDS.
• In the 1990's, Cindy Wilson retired.
• Hits include "Private Idaho"(Oct., 1980)#74, "Love Shack"(Sept., 1989)#3, "Roam"(Dec., 1989)#3 and "Deadbeat Club"(April, 1990) #30.

SPLIT ENZ

• Pop/rock sextet formed in New Zealand.
• Featuring Neil Finn (vocals/guitar/piano) and his brother Tim Finn (Te Awamutu) (June 25, 1952 – ) (vocals/keys).
• Famous for their elaborate stage makeup and hairstyles.
• 1980 - Their "True Colours" album featured laser etched vinyl.
• Drummer Paul Hester and both Finn brothers later became members of Crowded House.
• Aug., 1980 - Their only charted hit, "I Got You" went to #53.

GO-GO'S

• 1978 - All female pop/rock quintet formed in Los Angeles, California.
• Consisting of Belinda Carlisle (Aug. 17, 1958 – ) (vocals), Jane Wiedlin (May 20, 1958 – ) (guitar), Charlotte Caffey (Oct. 21, 1953 – ) (guitar), Kathy Valentine (bass) and Gina Schock (drums).
• Their style was the perfect blend of pop, surf and girl group sounds. The group was not technically brilliant but its effect was refreshing and exciting.
• 1985 - Carlisle went solo.
• 1985 - Wiedlin went solo. Her first recording, "Cool Places" (with Sparks) went to #49 in April, 1983.
• 1990 - Reformed for a reunion tour, reuniting again in 2000.
• June, 2001 - Released the "God Bless The Go-Go's" album featuring the hit, "Unforgiven."
• Hits include "Our Lips Are Sealed"(Aug., 1981)#20, "We Got The Beat"(Jan., 1982)#2, "Vacation"(July, 1982)#8 and "Head Over Heels"(March, 1984)#11.
• Carlisle solo hits include "Mad About You"(May, 1986)#3, "Heaven Is A Place On Earth"(Sept., 1987)#1, "I Get Weak"(Jan., 1988)#2 and "Circle In The Sand"(April, 1988)#7.

PETE SHELLEY

• Peter McNeice (April 17, 1955 – )
• British techno-pop singer/guitarist.
• Former member of the London punk group, The Buzzcocks.
• 1981 - Famous for his cult hit, "Homosapien."

SOFT CELL

• Marc Almond (Peter Marc Almond) (July 9, 1959 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Southport, Lancashire, England.
• Campy new-romantic torch singer.
• 1980 - Formed the electro-pop duo Soft Cell with synthesizer player David Ball (May 3, 1959 – ) in Leeds, England.
• Jan., 1982 - Their recording of Ed Cobb's "Tainted Love" (originally recorded in the 1960's by Gloria Jones) went to #8 US, (1981)#1 UK.
• British hits include "Bedsitter"(1981), "Torch"(1982) and "Soul Inside"(1983).
• 1984 - Almond went solo, having a hit with "Tears Run Rings" (Jan., 1989)#67 from his "The Stars We Are" album. Also included was an impressive duet of "Something's Gotten Hold Of My Heart" with Gene Pitney.

THE HUMAN LEAGUE

• 1977 - Electro-pop unit formed in Sheffield, England.
• Originally called Dead Daughters.
• Consisting of Martyn Ware (May 19, 1956 – ) (synthesizer), Ian Craig Marsh (Nov. 11, 1956 – ) (synthesizer) and Philip Oakey (Oct. 2, 1955 – ) (vocals/lyrics/synthesizer).
• The band took its name from a science fiction computer game called "Starforce."
• 1978 - Released their debut single, "Being Boiled."
• Nov. 8, 1980 - Ware and Marsh left to form the group Heaven 17 with vocalist Glenn Gregory. They were replaced by vocalists Joanne Catherall (Sept. 18, 1962 – ) and Suzanne Sulley (March 26, 1963 – ). Philip Adrian Wright (June 30, 1955 – ) joined along with 2 synthesizer players Ian Burden (Dec. 24, 1955 – ) and Jo Callis (May 2, 1951 – ).
• The group's forte was catchy dance pop with repetitive riffs.
• 1984 - Oakey teamed with Giorgio Moroder for "Together In Electric Dreams," for the film, "Electric Dreams."
• Hits include "Love Action (I Believe In Love)"(Aug., 1981)#3 UK, "Don't You Want Me"(Dec., 1981)#1 UK, (March, 1982)#1-3 wks., "Mirror Man"(Nov., 1982)#2 UK, (Oct., 1983)#30, "(Keep Feeling) Fascination"(April, 1983)#2 UK, (May, 1983)#8, "The Lebanon"(May, 1984)#11 UK, (June, 1984)#64, "Human"(Sept., 1986)#1 and "Tell Me When"(1995).

YAZ/ALISON MOYET

• Alison Moyet (aka: Alf) (Genevieve Alison-Jane Moyet) (June 18, 1961 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Basildon, Essex, England.
• Vince Clarke (July 6, 1961 – )
• Synthesizer player/keyboardist born in Basildon, England. Formerly with Depeche Mode.
• Dec. 1, 1981 - Electro-pop duo Yaz formed in Basildon, England.
• Originally called Yazoo.
• Their sound was dance pop with jazzy soulful vocals.
• Mid 1983 - Alison Moyet went solo and Clarke later formed Erasure.
• Hits include "Only You"(April, 1982)#2 UK, (Feb., 1983)#67 US, "Situation"(Sept. ,1982)#73 US and "Nobody's Diary"(May, 1983)#3 UK.
• Moyet is a consummate vocalist who deserves international acclaim and success.
• Moyet solo hits include "Invisible"(March, 1985)#31 US, "Love Resurrection"(July, 1985)#82 US, "That Ol' Devil Called Love" (1985), "Love Letters"(1987), "Wishing You Were Here"(1991) and "Rise"(1991).

MARSHALL CRENSHAW

• Singer/songwriter/guitarist from Detroit, Michigan.
• 1976 - Portrayed John Lennon in the road company of "Beatlemania."
• His recordings display strong rockabilly influences.
• 1987 - Portrayed Buddy Holly in the film, "La Bamba."
• Hits include "Someday Someway"(July, 1982)#36 (written by Crenshaw but originally recorded by Robert Gordon, hitting #76 in June, 1981) and "There She Goes Again"(1982).

MEN AT WORK

• 1979 - Pop/rock quintet formed in Melbourne, Australia.
• Consisting of singer/songwriter Colin James Hay (June 29, 1953 – ), lead guitarist Ron Strykert (Aug. 18, 1957 – ), bassist John Rees, saxophonist/keyboardist Greg Ham (Sept. 27, 1953 – ) and drummer Jerry Speiser.
• Began as the house band at the pub in The Cricketers Arms Hotel in Melbourne.
• 1981 - Signed to Columbia Records.
• 1982 - Received The Best New Artist Grammy Award.
• 1984 - Speiser and Rees left.
• 1987 - Hay went solo, releasing the "Looking For Jack" album.
• Hits include "Who Can It Be Now"(July, 1982)#1, "Down Under" (Nov., 1982)#1-4 wks., "Overkill"(April, 1983)#3, "It's A Mistake"(July, 1983)#6 and "Dr. Heckyl & Mr. Jive"(Sept., 1983) #28.

THE STRAY CATS

• Rockabilly trio formed in Long Island, New York.
• Consisting of Brian Setzer (April 10, 1960 – ) (vocals/guitar), Lee Rocker (Leon Drucher) (1961 – ) (string bass) and Slim Jim Phantom (Jim McDonnell) (March 20, 1961 – ) (drums).
• Their look and sound was a campy version of the 1950's rockabilly artists.
• March 20, 1984 - Phantom married Swedish actress Britt Ekland.
• 1987 - Setzer portrayed his hero Eddie Cochran in the film, "La Bamba."
• 1994 - Setzer formed the 17 piece Brian Setzer Orchestra, releasing the "Guitar Slinger" album in May, 1996.
• Hits include "Rock This Town"(Sept., 1982)#9, "Stray Cat Strut" (Dec., 1982)#3 and "(She's) Sexy + 17"(Aug., 1983)#5.

EURYTHMICS

• Annie Lennox (Griselda Anne Lennox) (Dec. 25, 1954 – )
• Singer/songwriter/keyboardist/flautist/actress born in Aberdeen, Scotland.
• David Stewart (Sept. 9, 1952 – )
• Singer/songwriter/guitarist/keyboardist/producer born in Sunderland, Tyne And Wear, England.
• 1973 - Stewart was guitarist for Longdancer in London, England.
• Stewart and Lennox were originally in a group called Catch.
• 1977 - Lennox and Stewart formed The Tourists with Peet Coombes, recording 2 albums and having one hit, "I Only Want To Be With You"(Nov., 1979)#4 UK, (May, 1980)#83 US. The song had already been charted by Dusty Springfield in the 1960's and by The Bay City Rollers in the 1970's.
• 1981 - Lennox and Stewart formed a duo, calling themselves Eurythmics. With this arrangement, any combination of session musicians could be utilized.
• May, 1983 - Their catchy recording of "Sweet Dreams" went to #1.
• The combination of Lennox's incredibly soulful voice and Stewart's innovative musicianship was a union made in heaven.
• Nov., 1984 - They collaborated on a partial soundtrack for the film, "1984."
• 1985 - Chameleon Lennox, famous for her androgynous appearance shocked America by appearing on The Grammy Awards Show dressed as Elvis Presley.
• Aug. 1, 1987 - Stewart married Siobhan Fahey of Bananarama.
• 1987 - Lennox married Israeli filmmaker Uri Fruchtmann.
• 1990 - Parted bitterly with each going solo.
• 1990 - Stewart released his solo debut album, "Spiritual Cowboys."
• Lennox solo albums include "Diva"(1992) featuring "Walking On Broken Glass" and "Medusa"(1995) featuring an interesting cover of Procol Harum's "A Whiter Shade Of Pale."
• Feb., 1996 - Lennox won the Best Pop Female Vocal Performance Grammy for "No More I Love You's."
• 1999 - Eurythmics reunited, releasing the "Peace" album featuring the hit, "Seventeen Again."
• Hits include "Here Comes The Rain Again"(Jan., 1984)#4, "Who's That Girl"(May, 1984)#21, "Would I Lie To You"(April, 1985)#5, "Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves"(Oct., 1985)#18 (with Aretha Franklin), "Missionary Man"(July, 1986)#14, "Thorn In My Side" (Nov., 1986)#68 and "I Need A Man"(Dec., 1987)#46.

THE MOTELS/MARTHA DAVIS

• Melodic rock quintet formed in Los Angeles, California.
• Featuring the soulful vocals of singer/songwriter Martha Davis (Jan. 19, 1951 – ) born in Berkeley, California.
• 1987 - Davis went solo, later overcoming a battle with cancer.
• Hits include "Only The Lonely"(April, 1982)#9, "Suddenly Last Summer"(Sept., 1983)#9 and "Shame"(July, 1985)#21.
• Nov., 1987 - Davis had a #80 charted solo hit with "Don't Tell Me The Time."

BILLY IDOL

• Willem Wolfe Broad (Nov. 30, 1955 – )
• Singer/songwriter/actor born in Edgware, London, England.
• 1976 - Formed Chelsea with singer Gene October.
• 1977-1981 - Lead singer of the London punk band Generation X (see Punk Rock).
• Famous for his sneer, bleach-blond hair and macho posturing.
• Feb. 14, 1981 - Went solo, moving to New York City.
• Developed a punk metal style with new wave overtones.
• His band featured flashy guitarist Steve Smith.
• Feb. 6, 1990 - Suffered serious leg injuries in a motorcycle accident.
• 1990 - Appeared in the film, "The Doors."
• Hits include "Hot In The City"(July, 1982)#23, "White Wedding" (May, 1983)#36, "Eyes Without A Face"(May, 1984)#4, "To Be A Lover"(Oct., 1986)#6, "Mony Mony"(live) (Sept., 1987#1 and "Cradle Of Love"(May, 1990)#2.

OINGO BOINGO

• Eight piece rock group based in Los Angeles, California.
• Led by singer Danny Elfman.
• 1986 - Appeared in the film, "Back To School."
• Elfman scored several films including "Beetlejuice"(1988), "Batman"(1989) and "Dick Tracy"(1990).
• Hits include "Weird Science"(Aug., 1985)#45, "Just Another Day" (Jan., 1986)#85 and "Not My Slave"(Aug., 1987).

A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS

• British techno-rock quartet led by vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Mike Score.
• Consisting of Score, Frank Maudsley (bass), Paul Reynolds (lead guitar) and Ali Score (drums).
• Hits include "I Ran (So Far Away)"(March, 1982)#43 UK, (July, 1982)#9, "Wishing"(Nov., 1982)#10 UK, (May, 1983)#26 and "The More You Live, The More You Love"(July, 1984)#26 UK, (Aug., 1984) #56.

CULTURE CLUB/BOY GEORGE

• Boy George (George Alan O'Dowd) (June 14, 1961 – )
• Singer born in London, England.
• Charismatic O'Dowd first sang professionally with Annabella in Bow Wow Wow.
• 1981 - Formed the pop/rock group Culture Club in London, England.
• Consisting of O'Dowd, Roy Hay (Aug. 12, 1961 – ) (guitar/keys), Michael Craig (Feb. 15, 1960 – ) (bass) and John Moss (Sept. 11, 1957 – ) (drums).
• Oct., 1981 - Played their first gig at Crocs in Rayliegh, Essex.
• Musically, the band was a fusion of reggae, disco and Motown.
• Boy George was famous for his soulful vocals, campy mannerisms and colourful cross dressing. His open gayness was a shock to American audiences.
• Sept., 1982 - Their recording of "Do You Really Want To Hurt Me" went to #1 UK, (Jan., 1983)#2 US.
• Powerhouse vocalist Helen Terry was later featured regularly with the band.
• 1986 - Boy George went solo.
• Summer, 1986 - Boy George hit all the tabloids with his admission that he was a heroin addict.
• 1995 - Boy George released his tell all autobiography, "Take It Like A Man."
• 2000 - Boy George began writing a column for the London newspaper, "The Express," hosted a radio program, DJ'd and toured with the re-formed Culture Club.
• Hits include "Time (Clock Of The Heart)"(April, 1983)#2, "I'll Tumble 4 Ya"(July, 1983)#9, "Church Of The Poison Mind"(Oct., 1983)#10, "Karma Chameleon"(Dec., 1983)#1-3 wks., "Miss Me Blind" (March, 1984)#5 and "Move Away"(April, 1986)#12.
• O'Dowd's charted American hits include "Live My Life"(Dec., 1987) #40 and "The Crying Game"(May, 1993)#15.

DURAN DURAN

• 1978 - Pop/rock group formed in Birmingham, England by keyboardist Nick Rhodes (Nicholas Bates) (June 8, 1962 – ) and bassist John Taylor (Nigel John Taylor) (June 20, 1960 – ).
• They went through 10 singers and 20 guitarists before settling.
• 1980 - Definitive lineup consisted of Simon LeBon (Oct. 27, 1958 – ) (vocals), Andy Taylor (Feb. 16, 1961 – ) (guitar), Roger Taylor (April 26, 1960 – ) (drums), Nick Rhodes (Nicholas Bates) (June 8, 1962 – ) and John Taylor (June 20, 1960 – ).
• The group's name comes from a villainous character in the 1968 Roger Vadim film, "Barbarella."
• 1980 - Played at The Edinburgh Festival.
• 1981 - Released their debut single, "Planet Earth."
• Innovative videos such as "Hungry Like The Wolf" led to U.S. airplay.
• 1982 - Released their second album, "Rio."
• The group achieved teen idol status, famous for their striking good looks, glamour and sculpted hair. They were the epitome of New Romanticism.
• The press called the riotous effect they had on their fans "Durandemonium."
• 1984 - Andy and Roger left.
• 1985 - Andy and John recorded with Robert Palmer in Power Station. Hits include "Some Like It Hot"(March, 1985)#6 and "Get It On"(June, 1985)#9.
• 1985 - Simon, Nick and Roger formed Arcadia. Hits include "Election Day"(Oct., 1985)#6 and "Goodbye Is Forever"(Feb., 1986) #33.
• 1993 - The group resurfaced, enjoying newfound success with their "Duran Duran" album.
• Hits include "Hungry Like The Wolf"(Dec., 1982)#3, "Rio"(April, 1983)#3, "Is There Something I Should Know"(June, 1983)#4, "Union Of The Snake" (Nov., 1983)#3, "New Moon On Monday"(Jan., 1984) #10, "The Reflex"(April, 1984)#1-2 wks., "The Wild Boys"(Nov., 1984)#2, "A View To A Kill"(May, 1985)#1-2 wks., "Notorious" (Nov., 1986)#2, "I Don't Want Your Love"(Oct., 1988)#4, "Violence Of Summer (Love's Taking Over)"(Sept., 1990)#64, "Ordinary World" (1993), "Come Undone"(1993) and "Electric Barbarella"(1997).

MEN WITHOUT HATS

• Techno-pop/dance band from Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
• The group featured charismatic lead singer Ivan Doroschuk and his brothers Stefan and Colin.
• Doroschuk later went solo.
• Hits include "The Safety Dance"(June, 1983)#3 and "Pop Goes The World"(Oct., 1987)#20.

SPANDAU BALLET

• Pop/rock quintet formed in London, England.
• Originally known as The Gentry.
• 1980 - Became Spandau Ballet.
• Consisting of Tony Hadley (June 2, 1960 – ) (vocals), Steve Norman (March 25, 1960 – ) (sax), John Keeble (July 6, 1959 – ) (drums), Gary Kemp (Oct. 15, 1959 – ) (guitar) and Martin Kemp (Oct. 10, 1962 – ) (bass).
• Considered to be the originators of the "new-romantic" movement in the UK.
• 1990 - The Kemp brothers starred as Reggie and Ronnie Kray in the film, "The Krays."
• Hits include "To Cut A Long Story Short"(Nov., 1980)#5 UK, "Chant No. 1 (I Don't Need This Pressure)"(July, 1981)#3 UK, "True" (April, 1983)#1 UK, (Aug., 1983)#4 and "Gold"(Aug., 1983)#2 UK, (Nov., 1983)#29.

FRANKIE GOES TO HOLLYWOOD

• Colourful dance-pop quintet formed in Liverpool, England.
• Consisting of vocalists William "Holly" Johnson (Feb. 9, 1960 – ), Paul Rutherford (Dec. 8, 1959 – ), drummer Peter "Pedro" Gill (March 8, 1960 – ), Brian Nash (May 20, 1963 – ) and bassist Marc O'Toole (Jan. 6, 1964 – ).
• Johnson took the name Holly from the Lou Reed song, "Walk On The Wild Side."
• The group's name was derived from Frank Sinatra going into films.
• Famous for their controversial videos.
• 1987 - Disbanded.
• Feb., 1993 - Johnson revealed that he was HIV+.
• Hits include "Relax"(Nov., 1983)#1 UK (April, 1984)#67 US, re-entry (Jan., 1985)#10 US, "Two Tribes"(June, 1984)#1 UK, (Oct., 1984)#43 US and "Welcome To The Pleasuredome"(April, 1985)#48 US.

PSYCHEDELIC FURS

• 1979 - Hard edge rock quartet formed in Britain.
• Based in America.
• Consisting of singer Richard Butler (June 5, 1956 – ), bassist Tim Butler, guitarist John Ashton and drummer Vince Ely.
• Richard and Tim Butler are brothers.
• The group was dominated by the sinister growling vocal style of Richard Butler.
• Hits include "Love My Way"(March, 1983)#44, "Pretty In Pink" (April, 1986)#41 (from the film, "Pretty In Pink") and "Heartbreak Beat"(March, 1987)#26.

THE PARACHUTE CLUB

• Pop/rock septet from Toronto, Ontario, Canada featuring vocalist Lorraine Segato.
• By the late 1980's, the group had dwindled to 5 members and by the 1990's, Segato went solo.
• 1990 - Segato released the solo album, "Phoenix."
• Hits include "Rise Up"(June, 1983), "At The Feet Of The Moon" (Oct., 1984), "Sexual Intelligence"(May, 1985), "Walk To The Rhythm (Of Your Heartbeat)"(June, 1987) and "Big Big World"(Feb., 1988).

THE SMITHS

• 1981 - Influential rock quartet formed in Manchester, England.
• Consisting of Morrissey (Steven Patrick Morrissey) (May 22, 1959 – ) (vocals), Johnny Marr (John Maher) (Oct. 31, 1963 – ) (guitar/piano), Andy Rourke (bass) and Mike Joyce (June 1, 1963 – ) (drums).
• A much admired band, famous for their literate lyrical content, often dealing with sexual ambiguity.
• 1981 - Released the "Hatful Of Hollow" album.
• May 13, 1983 - Released their debut single, "Hand In Glove." Although it failed to chart, it was later successfully covered by singer Sandie Shaw in 1984 on the Rough Trade label.
• Jan. 28, 1984 - Their first 3 hit singles held the top 3 positions in the UK independent singles chart.
• 1986 - Released their third studio album, "The Queen Is Dead" featuring "There Is A Light That Never Goes Out."
• Sept. 12, 1987 - Morrissey and Marr clashed and the group disbanded with Morrissey going solo (see Morrissey).
• 1987 - Their final studio album, "Strangeways Here We Come" went to #2 UK.
• Hits include "This Charming Man"(Dec., 1983)#25 UK, "What Difference Does It Make"(Jan., 1984)#12 UK, "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now"(June, 1984)#10 UK, "How Soon Is Now"(Feb., 1985) #24 UK, "Meat Is Murder"(1985)#1 UK and "Stop Me If You Think You've Heard This One Before"(1987).

MORRISSEY

• Steven Patrick Morrissey (May 22, 1959 – )
• Singer/songwriter born in Manchester, England.
• One time U.K. fan club president for The New York Dolls.
• 1982-1987 - Lead singer of the seminal rock group The Smiths.
• Sept. 12, 1987 - Went solo.
• A celibate vegetarian, Morrissey has been described as everything from angst poet to wimp.
• He is often nicknamed "Alternative Rock's King Of Pain."
• Album releases include "Kill Uncle"(1991), "Your Arsenal"(1992), "Vauxhall And I"(1994), "Southpaw Grammar"(1995) and "Maladjusted"(1997).

JANE SIBERRY

• Singer/songwriter/performance artist from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
• A fascinating stage performer with a delightful kooky personality.
• Her music is adventurous yet extremely accessible.
• 1996 - Founded her own record label.
• Hits include "Mimi On The Beach"(1985), "One More Colour"(1985), "Map Of The World"(1986) and "The Walking"(1987).

ECHO & THE BUNNYMEN

• 1978 - New wave quartet formed in Liverpool, England.
• Consisting of singer/guitarist Ian McCulloch (May 5, 1959 – ), guitarist Will Sergeant (April 12, 1958 – ), bassist Les Pattinson (April 18, 1958 – ) and drummer Pete De Freitas (Aug. 2, 1961 – ).
• Their name stems from their drum machine called Echo.
• 1984 - De Freitas left to form The Sex Gods.
• 1987 - Their version of the Doors' "People Are Strange" was heard on the soundtrack of the film, "The Lost Boys."
• 1989 - McCulloch went solo.
• 1997 - Released the "Evergreen" album featuring the track, "Don't Let It Get You Down."
• Hits include "The Pictures On My Wall"(1979), "The Back Of Love" (1983), "The Cutter"(Jan., 1983)#8 UK, "The Killing Moon"(1984), "Seven Seas"(1984) and "The Game"(1988).

THE BANGLES

• Jan., 1981 - Female rock quartet formed in Los Angeles, California.
• Consisting of Susanna Hoffs (Jan. 17, 1961 – ) (vocals/ guitar), Michael Steele (June 2, 1954 – ) (bass), and sisters Vicki Peterson (Jan. 11, 1958 – ) (lead guitar) and Debbi Peterson (Aug. 22, 1961 – ) (drums).
• Originally named The Bangs.
• The group had a distinct folk rock affiliation and Hoffs' vocal intonation conjured up the sound of the girl groups.
• The material was catchy and memorable and the sound was pure jangle pop (see The Nineties).
• Oct., 1989 - Disbanded.
• 1990 - Hoffs went solo, scoring with "My Side Of The Bed."
• Hits include "Manic Monday"(Jan., 1986)#2 (written by Christopher - a pseudonym for Prince), "If She Knew What She Wants"(May, 1986)#29, "Walk Like An Egyptian"(Sept., 1986)#1-4 wks., "Walking Down Your Street"(Feb., 1987)#11, "Hazy Shade Of Winter"(Nov., 1987)#2, "In Your Room"(Oct., 1988)#5 and "Eternal Flame"(Feb., 1989)#1.

LAURIE ANDERSON

• (June 5, 1947 – )
• Multi-media performance artist born in Chicago, Illinois.
• Her work involves music, mime, speech, tape loops, film and special effects.
• 1973 - Began performing publicly.
• Oct., 1981 - Her 8 minute long single, "O Superman" went to #2 UK.
• 1982 - Released her landmark album, "Big Science."
• In the 1990's, became Lou Reed's girlfriend.
• Nov., 2000 - The "Talk Normal: The Laurie Anderson Anthology" was released.

A SELECTED LISTING OF OTHER NEW WAVE RECORDINGS

• Darkroom - "Test Of Time"(March, 1985).
• Flash & The Pan - "Hey St. Peter"(July, 1979)#76 US.
• The Flying Lizards - "Money"(Aug., 1979)#5 UK, (Dec., 1979)#50 US.
• Haircut 100 - "Love Plus One"(Jan., 1982)#3 UK, (May, 1982)#37 US.
• The Inmates - "The Walk"(Dec., 1979)#36 UK.
• The Kings - "Switchin' To Glide"(Aug., 1980)#43 US.
• Nick Lowe - "Cruel To Be Kind"(July, 1979)#12.
• Madness - "One Step Beyond"(Nov., 1979)#7 UK.
• The Motors - "Love And Loneliness"(April, 1980)#58 UK, (May, 1980) #78 US.
• The Selecter - "On My Radio"(Oct., 1979)#8 UK.

ALSO SEE

• Chapter 27: Glitter/Glam And Art Rock
• Chapter 33: Punk Rock
• Chapter 37: Eighties Revue
• Chapter 38: The Nineties And Beyond

BIBLIOGRAPHY