Spandau Ballet

Spandau Ballet is a British band formed in London in 1979. They were part of the New Romantic movement and gained prominence in the early 1980s. The original lineup consisted of Tony Hadley (lead vocals), Gary Kemp (guitar, keyboards, vocals), Martin Kemp (bass guitar), John Keeble (drums), and Steve Norman (saxophone, guitar, keyboards). The band's breakthrough came with their 1983 single 'True', which became a massive hit and solidified their place in pop history. After a successful career, Spandau Ballet disbanded in 1990 but reunited in 2009 for a world tour and have since released new music and continued to perform.

Spandau Ballet was influenced by a variety of musical genres, including glam rock, disco, and soul music. Early influences included artists like David Bowie, Roxy Music, and the funk and soul sounds of the 1970s. The band's style also incorporated elements of new wave, which was characterized by synthesizers and a polished production aesthetic. Their music blended catchy pop melodies with thoughtful lyrics, often exploring themes of love and relationships.

Spandau Ballet has sold over 25 million records worldwide. They are known for their distinctive fashion sense, which was emblematic of the New Romantic movement, featuring flamboyant outfits and hairstyles. The band's most famous song, 'True', was released in 1983 and reached number one in several countries. In 2010, the band was the subject of a documentary film titled 'Soul Boys of the Western World', which chronicled their rise to fame and the cultural impact of their music.

Spandau Ballet played a significant role in the New Romantic movement of the early 1980s, helping to define the sound and style of the era. Their fusion of pop, rock, and soul elements influenced subsequent bands and artists in the synth-pop and new wave genres. 'True' remains an enduring classic, often associated with the sound of the 1980s. The band's legacy includes their contributions to the British music scene and their impact on fashion and pop culture during that time.