Spandau Ballet facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Spandau Ballet
|
|
|---|---|
Spandau Ballet in 2009
|
|
| Background information | |
| Origin | Islington, London, England |
| Genres | New Wave, New Romantic, blue-eyed soul, sophisti-pop, synthpop, pop rock |
| Years active | 1979–1990, 2009-present |
| Labels | Chrysalis, Mercury, Epic |
| Members | Tony Hadley Gary Kemp Steve Norman John Keeble Martin Kemp |
| Past members | Michael Ellison Richard Miller |
Spandau Ballet is a famous English pop group. They started making music in 1979 and became very popular in the 1980s. The band is known for its unique sound, which mixed pop, rock, and electronic music. They also helped create the "New Romantic" fashion style.
After a break, the band got back together in 2009. One of their biggest and most well-known songs is "True".
Who Are Spandau Ballet?
Spandau Ballet formed in Islington, London, England. The main members of the band are:
- Tony Hadley (lead singer)
- Gary Kemp (guitar and songwriting)
- Martin Kemp (bass guitar)
- Steve Norman (saxophone and guitar)
- John Keeble (drums)
The Kemp brothers, Gary and Martin, were very important to the band's sound and look.
Their Music Style
Spandau Ballet's music is a mix of different styles. They are often called a "New Wave" or "New Romantic" band.
- New Wave: This style of music was popular in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It often used synthesizers and had catchy tunes.
- New Romantic: This was a fashion and music movement in the UK during the early 1980s. Bands like Spandau Ballet wore fancy clothes and had a dramatic look.
They also played music that sounded like "blue-eyed soul" and "sophisti-pop." This means their songs sometimes had a soulful feel, but with a polished, smooth sound.
Famous Songs and Albums
Spandau Ballet released many popular songs and albums.
- Journeys to Glory (1981): This was their first album. It showed their early New Romantic sound.
- Diamond (1982): This album included hits like "Instinction" and "Chant No. 1 (I Don't Need This Pressure On)."
- True (1983): This album was a huge success around the world. The song "True" became one of their most famous hits. It was a slower, more soulful song.
- Parade (1984): This album had more hits, like "Only When You Leave."
Their songs often had strong melodies and Tony Hadley's powerful voice.
The Band's Journey
Spandau Ballet was active from 1979 to 1990. During this time, they became one of the biggest bands in the UK and had success in other countries, including the United States.
After they split up in 1990, the members worked on other projects. Gary Kemp and Martin Kemp became actors. Martin Kemp is well-known for his role in the TV show EastEnders.
In 2009, the original members of Spandau Ballet got back together. They went on tour and released new music. This reunion made many fans happy and introduced their music to a new generation.
