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Islington, United Kingdom · 1979–1990, 2009–2019

Spandau Ballet

Spandau Ballet is a British band that stood out in the 1980s pop scene, particularly as pioneers of the New Romantic movement. Their sound is characterized by a fusion of influences ranging from punk and soul to synth-pop, allowing them to create a distinctive style that resonated with audiences of the time. The band's classic lineup included Gary Kemp on guitar and synthesizers, his brother Martin Kemp on bass, Tony Hadley as lead vocalist, Steve Norman on saxophone, and John Keeble on drums. Gary Kemp was also the primary songwriter, contributing lyrics and melodies that defined the character of their songs.

The turning point in Spandau Ballet's career came with the release of their album True in 1983, which catapulted the band to the top of the charts. The eponymous song became a major hit, reaching number one in the UK and achieving prominence on US charts. This track, recognized as one of the most played in US radio history, earned them a BMI award in 2011. Additionally, their participation in events like Live Aid in 1985 and their recognition with a Brit Award in 1984 for technical excellence solidified their place in pop music history.

new wave Pop new romantic blue-eyed soul dance-pop 1970s
1 Albums
8 Songs
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Most played on DoReSol

Essential songs

01

Pleasure

True · 1983

3:35 02

Communication

True · 1983

3:41 03

Code of Love

True · 1983

5:12 04

Gold

True · 1983

4:50 05

Lifeline

True · 1983

3:37 06

Heaven Is a Secret

True · 1983

4:28 07

Foundation

True · 1983

4:09 08

True

True · 1983

6:30

1 album|s · 1983

Full discography

True 1983 ★ Essential

True

8 song|s · new wave

Share stage, decade and obsessions

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Details, awards, members and more

More about Spandau Ballet

Biography

Throughout their career, Spandau Ballet released albums such as Journeys to Glory and Diamond, which reflected their musical evolution and connection to glam rock and art rock. However, after a series of successes, the band faced ups and downs and disbanded in 1990. After nearly two decades, they reunited in 2009 for a tour celebrating their greatest hits. In 2014, they released a documentary titled Soul Boys of the Western World, which explored their history and legacy. Though the band has experienced lineup changes, their music remains a benchmark of 1980s British pop, resonating with new generations and keeping their essence alive.

Details

Born
1 Jan 1979
Country
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
Genre
new wave

Awards and honors

  • Brit Awards

Members

· actual
Gary Kemp
· actual
John Keeble
· actual
Martin Kemp
· actual
Steve Norman
· actual
Tony Hadley

Record labels

Chrysalis Records Chrysalis Reformation Records Mercury Records Mercury Epic Records Epic Columbia Records Columbia Parlophone

Links

Spotify Official site Instagram Twitter Wikipedia