In 1979, 1980, 1981 we heard Gary Numan, Visage, Japan, The Human League, Depeche Mode. OMD, Ultravox, Joy Division. The New Wave synth period was beautiful. Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Talk Talk.. New Order.
Thank you. I suggested they check out Gary Numan too, especially the Replicas, Pleasure Principle and Telekon era. I think they might like I, Assassin and Berserker, too.
@@sandrahughes8645 - I listened to the album version of 'Autobahn' a while ago and noticed several sounds and ideas I'd heard in later Electronic bands' songs 🙂 And my very first Kraftwerk experience (a performance of 'Die Roboter' on German TV in '78, when I was only 8) had creeped me out 😅
Steve Strange stayed with me for a short time when he didn’t have a home. Sweet guy. These were great times for me. The fashion , the music , being in a band , and the clubs like the Blitz. ❤
David Bowie reached out to Steve Strange to create the looks for the Ashes to Ashes video after being fascinated by the looks of the people at his club, The Blitz, where only London's most fashionable and glamorous people were allowed in. Steve is seen walking next to Bowie in parts of the video.
The lead singer of Visage Steve Strange was the co founder of The Blitz club in London that was the launch pad for British 80's electronic music and was the home of Spandau Ballet, Boy George, Adam Ant as well as Visage, and Ultravox. Then you had The Rum Runner in Birmingham UK, which was a similar club to The Blitz and that club is where Duran Duran was formed. Maybe John Foxx Burning Car next for your New Wave journey.
@smallsmalls3889 if you watch the documentary Blitz Kids they hated being called New Romantics, which was given by The NME and referred to the fashion not the music, the music was always referred to as either New Wave, Synth-pop or Elecronic/Elecronica. Steve Strange said that nobody actually involved in the movement actually called themselves New Romantics, they even made fun of Duran Duran for using New Romantic as a song Lyric. I also know this as I used to get into the Rum Runner in Birmingham in the early 80's as an impressionable 14/15 year old and similar to Blitz they used to play early electronic music pioneers like Kraftwerk and Roxy Music along with David Bowie and of course later there own music like John Foxx, Cabaret Voltare, Depeche Mode, Spandau Ballet (the early stuff not the nauseating Gold, True etc), The Human League, Joy Division, Tubeway Army, The Normal, Visage (of course), Japan etc.
@jay-bt2lu that was Martin Degville who was also a regular at Blitz along with Marilyn, Siobhan Fahey (Bananarama), Kate Garner (Haysi Fantayzee), Billy Idol and Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny), the Blitz was responsible for halfthe UK charts in the early 80s.
44 years after this was released I remain convinced that if a single track could be credited with being the one that introduced the New Romantic movement to the "masses" - and thereby made it popular - it's this one. RIP Steve Strange.......thank you so so so much for what you achieved with Fade To Grey. (And thanks also for your other wonderful tunes. The Damned Don't Cry, Love Glove, and Mind Of A Toy immediately spring to mind.)
You have not yet reacted to KRAFTWERK the German synthesiser group from the 1970s than spawned all this 1980s synth pop. Their breakthrough hit was 1974s “Autobahn” but perhaps listen to 1978s “The Model” first, it went to No 1 in the UK when released as a single in 1981. The Beatles and Kraftwerk have been dubbed the two most influential bands in pop music history. Their influence on 1980s UK synth bands is very obvious. They are amazing. Robot Soul !!
The origin of all this actually comes from experimental musicians in the 1940’s who were from the classical tradition-the “Musique Concrete” school in France for example, or Karl Heinz Stockhausen.
I knew Steve, (Harrington)- Strange and went to school with him in South Wales, he was always someone who was never going to conform but a genuinely nice and gentle person. A sad loss, so young.
@@stevenlewington553 - and I think Rusty Egan was as well, who was co-owner of the Blitz club with Steve Strange. He was also the drummer in the short-lived pop-punk band The Rich Kids, with Midge Ure (again!) and Glen Matlock, who was tbe original bass player for the Sex Pistols.
I'M SO EXCITED ABOUT MIDGE URE! I saw him live a few years ago and he has sooooo many great stories. He's been there done that for everything in the music world!
@@paulhutchinson323 it's hard to find. For whatever reason, they put their reactions with guests on a channel (or a playlist??) called Rob Squad and the Creators, but I don't see any way to search it. Here's a link to a playlist and Midge Ure should be on there somewhere. th-cam.com/video/05myqZrW9VA/w-d-xo.html
Certified banger. I watched a reaction the other day for this song and the two English chaps gave us a history lesson for members of Visage. The main founder was Steve Strange. He and his friends were the pioneers of the New Romantics. They opened up a nightclub called The Blitz, formed the band Visage (the singer was the bouncer at the club), and they even published a magazine highlighting the New Romantics culture. Another prominent member of the New Romantics was Boy George. Pretty cool history of New Wave.
Steve strange was known to be quite particular on who he let in, in the clubs and he would turn away famous people from time to time, literally standing outside saying "no you can't come in"
Odd no mention of Midge Ure or Billy Currie (both from Ultravox) who were the main contributors to Visage's first album - and their second I can't remember.
If you have Midge Ure coming on you have a huge personality. One he’s a Scottish guy. Two he’s famous for his band Ultravox and MOST importantly he worked closely with Bob Geldof to organise the 1985 Band Aid which led to Live Aid and Live 8 phenomenon which played on our TV screens in the UK and the USA - Live Aid had an amazing set by Freddie Mercury and Queen that was iconic. Do your research and you will have a huge star in Midge Ure whom I would say is one of the most down to earth people ever. Mr. James Ure also helped organise Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute.
I believe Midge Ure is the only artist to have encompassed five different musical genres. 1. Slick...Teen pop 2. Rich Kids...punk/post Punk 3. Ultravox....New wave/ synth pop 4. Thin Lizzy...Rock 5. Midge Ure...solo artist An incredibly talented musician/ songwriter/producer. I've seen him play on many occasions, amazing performer.
You got that right guys! As a full blown 80s New Waver, it was an awesome time to be a teenager and a college student. This music transformed my life! First time I went into a Club was in '85. It was a New Wave Club. That's the real way I got introduced to this music, and after that first night, my life was never the same! It literally was transformative! Even though I already knew a lot of the more commercial side of New Wave, with a lot of radio hits by '85, going into a club and listening to the stuff that wasn't being played on the radio was jaw dropping to me! For me, it became a before and after moment! Long live New Wave!!!!!
Two notes in and I was back to being a 16 year old in a club (trying to remember to look like I'm 18) wearing black lipstick, gold eyes and thick black liner, with so much hairspray I think I had my own personal hole in the ozone layer.
Another 80's banger. Amber and Jay can you please react to Alphaville - *Forever Young* and *Big in Japan* and also Bronski Beat *Smalltown Boy* and *Why* Thanks
Visage were part of a sub-genre of New Wave known as New Romantic. (See also Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Culture Club). Bowie was a big influence for this movement. The video for 'Ashes to Ashes' features Visage's singer, Steve Strange, and friends.
Finally someone talking sense, I thought the whole time that they were talking about New Romantic when they called it New Wave (which it is as well), they did not realize yet that they had reacted to tons of New Wave bands already, it's just New Romantic that's new for them.
New Romantic and synth pop could have very similar sounds, however no one called Depeche Mode New Romantic, if only they could have found their way a decent tailor! Bonus points for those who get the reference 😉
Visage were at the forefront of a sub genre called New Romantics that started in the late 70s with bands like Spandau Ballet, Culture Club, Duran Duran and A Flock Of Seagulls. Their style was influenced by people like David Bowie and Marc Bolan and Brian Ferry.
You guys should check out a documentary called "Blitzed", which showcased the early 80s new wave scene (the fans of which were referred to as "Blitz Kids"). It features everyone from Midge Ure to Boy George to the singer of this band, the late Steve Strange.
This is what I was coming here to say. Such a good documentary, amazing how intertwined all these bands and artists were. Such an exciting time. I'm sad I was just a kid when all this was happening, but I would never have been cool enough for it!
Steve unfortunately passed away in 2015 @ 55yo the world wasn't ready for the New Romantic wave of New Wave. The makeup, clothing, Blitz kids or Klub kids ahhhh the memories ♥️ 🌈 🏳️🌈 💋
Loved Visage. R.I.P. Steve Strange. Front man of visage. Bought so much to new romantic era. Starred in David Bowie Ashes to Ashes video. Bowie bought this movement on
Hi Jay and Amber! It's Andrew Erroch fae Paisley in Scotland here. You're having Midge Ure on your show? Wow! What a guest to have. Remember to ask him about Live Aid. And, please also say hello to him from me, a fellow Scot and a fan of him amazing catalogue of work. Æx 🙏
Fade to Grey entered the UK Top 40 in late December 1980 and it peaked at no.8 in early February 1981. This is the Top 10 from early Feb. 1 - John Lennon - Woman 2 - Ultravox - Vienna 3 - Phil Collins - In the air tonight 4 - John Lennon - Imagine 5 - Blondie - Rapture 6 - Adam & The Ants - Ant music 7 - Rainbow - I surrender 8 - Joe Dolce Music Theatre - Shaddup you face 9 - Yarborough & Peoples - Don't stop the music 10 - Visage - Fade to grey Also in this weeks Top 40 Dire Straits - Romeo and Juliet Adam & The Ants - Young Parisians Spandau Ballet - The Freeze Stevie Wonder - I ain't gonna stand for it Diana Ross - It's my turn The Stray Cats - Rock this town The Specials - Do nothing XTC - Sgt Rock (Is going to help me) The Boomtown Rats - The Elephant's graveyard The Passions - I'm in love with a German film star Bad Manners - Lorraine Queen - Flash The Beat - Too nice to talk to David Bowie - Scary monsters (And super creeps) The Jam - That's entertainment And a few more tracks from the following weeks...... Talking Heads - Once in a lifetime Roxy Music - Jealous guy Toyah - It's a mystery The Teardrop Explodes - Reward Kim Wilde - Kids in America Duran Duran - Planet Earth Visage - Mind of a toy Landscape - Einstein a go-go Linx - Intuition New Order - Ceremony
Midge Ure together with Bob Geldof created Band Aid which led to the Live Aid concert at Wembley stadium in London in 1985. In Britain Midge Ure is rock royalty.
@@charliegeorge9393 I hear what your saying , but there’s Scot’s accents and there’s Scot’s accents , Sean Connery got a free pass and was 💯 understood but Frankie Boyle not so much 😝 👍🏴
That sound, that guy (Steve Strange and his make-up), that song... it was FIRE when it was released. I was 9 years old then and completely hypnotised with Visage You find that fascinating in 2024, imagine back in 1980!!!!!!!!
I was born 71. So the music you're talking about I grew up with. It wasn't until 87 I hit clubs. Wonderful times. I loved all old New Wave and Synth pop, and foremost I was so goth😊. I've missed you, you haven't showed up in my feed. Again hugs from Sweden.
Another great 80s choice Jay and Amber. A couple of artists you should react to again that were popular during the 80s are New Order and Depeche Mode. From New Order listen to the version of "Bizarre Love Triangle" from the Substance album and Depeche Mode's live version of "I Just Can't Get Enough" from DM 101. I know you reacted to the studio version, but you haven't really heard that song until you hear the live DM 101 version. Thanks for all you do, blessings!
I grew up in this and the punk rock era and never consciously thought of New Wave being an immersive art but Amber really nailed it. That was a brilliant analogy.
I am stunned that you guys went down the rabbit hole of visage...you have surprised me with your toe dip into new wave....you haven't even scratched the surface yet...I am sure many will suggest artists and songs....new wave was an escape for British 20somethings that needed an escape from being on the dole or working horrible 9-5 hrs...new wave didn't last long but defined the early 80s...if you listen to 80s radio nowadays, it's dominated by new wave artists that weren't given the time of day except on college radio...peace
This is Still sounds as Fresh as it did in the 80’s. Visage started in 1978 when Midge Ure (Ultravox) & Rusty Egan (The Rich Kids) began to produce the Music that they Wanted to hear in the clubs. Rusty & Steve Strange were Promotors & Hosts nights at the Blitz Club. Steve had sung vocals in some Punk bands, so he was brought in to provide vocals. And Billy Currie (Ultravox), John McGeoch, Barry Adamson & Dave Formula (Magazine) completed Visage. And because of Contractual obligations & Band commitments Steve became the Face (Visage) of the Band. Rusty is Still a DJ/Producer and (Gratuitous name drop) recently worked with a friend of mine, DJ/Producer Paul Goodyear aka SanFranDisko.
I grew-up with this song since I was a kid, it was my honour in later life to get to know Steve Strange and to DJ at his clubs and to DJ at his very last birthday party before he sadly passed away. He is sorely missed ❤
Midge Ure is a GREAT composer! He is responsible for the genius in the Ultravox songs and also for Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas", as well as for the unique pop rarity of Thin Lizzy's Phil Lynott solo successful single in the UK, "Yellow Pearl". Moreover, Midge also has his very own share of solo efforts in the likes of "If I Was", "The Man Who Sold The World" (a David Bowie cover, many years before a certain Nirvana) and "Breathe", just to name a couple.
Midge Ure? Amazing. Make sure you react to Dancing With Tears In My Eyes before you talk to him - and maybe revisit the Band Aid song too, as he co-wrote it.
Fantastic! This is one of my favourite '80's songs, this takes me back to the early '80's. Great reaction as always, wishing you both well and sending peace.
These were the New Romantics, not so much New Wave, although thete is definitely an overlap. really interesting little movement.. If you only knew what a superstar Midge Ure is in music. We're talking about the guy who co wrote Band Aid's Do you know it's Christmas and helped organise Live Aid. Spandau Ballet started out in the New Romantic scene too and a good example of that would have been To Cut a long story short. Steve Strange is the singer in Visage and he also appears in the video for David Bowies's Ashes to Ashes. He was also the manager/owner of the Blitz Club in Soho London. Boy George and Pete Burns from Dead or Alive worked there. Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran and a host of other artists frequented the club, and famously Mick Jagger got turned away from there for not being dressed in a cool enough way, oh and it was David Bowie visiting there that led to Steve Strange being in his video. Xx
I consider this song one of the best ever. It's truly "immersive", it's pure art, it's melancholy, it's superb. It has been stuck in my head for 44 years!
Wow, you're talking to Midge Ure? The guy is a massive star. I'm lucky enough to have seen Ultravox live in Belfast in the 80's, incredible performance. Well done RSR.
One of the things I've always loved about '80's New Wave videos is that they were more art films than videos as this one surely proved. One of the locations to hear songs like this in the '80's wasn't necessarily in the clubs, but rather the Gay Bathhouses. TMI? Maybe, but that's where I remember hearing this song. The bathhouse in West Hollywood was well known for its interesting music. There was a guy that worked there known only as 'Wizard" who provided the music.
Fantastic Everybody thought the synths were taking over and would ruin music, but they didn't. Auto-tune has done that. Good song writing and performance will always stand up.
When I was 18y.o. I was part of a group of young people taking part in a live BBC Radio 1 show discussing youth trends, music and styles. Steve Strange was meant to be the celebrity contributor but he was so off his head on something he barely said a word or even acknowledge we were there.
Doesn't get any more iconic than Steve Strange when it comes to the New Romantics. Also, I highly recommend Meow Wolf if you get the chance to go! I've only been to the original one in New Mexico, but it was a mind-blowing experience 🤩
I think the 80's song that has the most layering, at least that I can think of is This Corrosion by Sisters Of Mercy, which I also don't think you've listened to yet. By the end of it, there is so much happening at the same time and yet it all works.
I saw Steve perform not long before he passed and he still had that 'je ne sais quoi' about him, despite what substance abuse did to him. Great performer x
Loved this song when it first came out [and still do], a group made up of artists from other groups. I've just turned 63 and was born in the right era. I would give anything to go back to those times [and stay there] than be were we are today! Edit: Still have my extensive record collection especially 12" singles.
thank you Guys for reading/listening to my comment a view Days ago After checking out Vienna...??? Im proud of you 2 thank you again....???? Now you have to check out Midge Ure ( Ultravox/Visage ) his 🙏first Nr. 1 Song/Hit Worldwide from 1985 If I Was...???? Im really proud of you Guys Well done.....👍
Great reaction! 💙 This song is definitely new wave and possibly new romantic since it was released in 1980. The most popular artist to have come out of the new romantic scene was Duran Duran. You guys might want to react to Duran Duran's first video for Planet Earth. It's a very good example of new romantic/new wave. The thing about the new romantics was that their clothing and fashion sense were outrageous. Prior to joining Culture Club, Boy George was a major part of that scene.😊
A certified New Wave classic, without a doubt! "Frequency 7" would be another Visage tune I'd highly recommend! (the original track, NOT the up-tempo remix) Takes me back to the underground clubs, back in the day. EDIT: You guys MUST also try Heaven 17's "Let Me Go", one of my all-time New Wave favorites.
Incredible song and band! A period of music that was unique. That techno/New Romantic sound was everywhere. Bands & artists were popping up everywhere, especially out of England - Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Soft Cell, The Human League, Culture Club, Ultravox, OMD, A Flock of Seagulls, Thompson Twins, ABC, Yazoo. The list goes on and on. These bands found a lane and just pumped out an incredible amount of amazing music in the early days of the 80's and we were fortunate that MTV was hitting its stride and could get some fantastic videos from them as well.
Love Your reactions - keep up the good work You two 😉❤️👍🏻 I was born in 1971 and became interested in music from 1980 and at that time new wave, synth pop, electronic pop broke through. At the same time MTV began and I love all the fantastic music videos that was made - very creative 📽️ I still love that music today - groups like: Depeche Mode, Yazoo, Erasure, Kraftwerk, New Order, Soft Cell, Human League, OMD, Visage etc. 🎹 Greetings from a danish Rob Squad fan 🇩🇰😉
If you are on a New Wave kick. One of the most requested songs when I was DJ'ing back in the 80's was - Band: Clan of Xymox. Song Title: "Imagination." (Great Song).
Clan of Xymox fan over here. So many great tracks to choose from--personally I would love for them to react to either Home Sweet Home or Jasmine and Rose.
I second that. Human League with founding members Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh was phenomenal. The more commercial version with the girls are also good but the original band was incredible.
I totally agree. I still get chills when I hear the intro to this song. Hearing it live a Powderham Castle a few years ago has to be a highlight of all the gigs I've been to. Awesome song!!!!
@voxsilen Their first two albums, Reproduction and Travelogue were fire. I relate Ths Human League to Fleetwood Mac in that the first iteration was more raw, talented and avant-garde but the later iteration was still a good band and was more commercially successful and mass appealing but unfortunately lost a bit of its soul along the way.
Alphaville has nothing to do with this, they were not British and their music was extremely commercial. Visage was number 1 in Germany for 7 weeks with an ultra avant-garde song, no one has been able to achieve something like that. The same for OMD, who in Germany their "Maid Of Orleans" was the third best-selling song of the entire decade.
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In 1979, 1980, 1981 we heard Gary Numan, Visage, Japan, The Human League, Depeche Mode. OMD, Ultravox, Joy Division. The New Wave synth period was beautiful. Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Talk Talk.. New Order.
Great days (and nights)
Аnd also Yello! :)
Japan don't get enough credit.
Tubeway Army and next two Gary Numan albums, anything from those they would love.
Eurythmics ❤
...Soft Cell 🤗
"Are Friends Electric" by Gary Numan and Tubeway Army, it'll blow your mind!
Thank you. I suggested they check out Gary Numan too, especially the Replicas, Pleasure Principle and Telekon era. I think they might like I, Assassin and Berserker, too.
@@stevenlewington553 - They'd gotten a first impression already when listening to 'Cars' a while ago 🙂
My favourite!!!!
I’m suggesting they also check out Kraftwerk! I feel Gary Numan and many others were influenced by them .
@@sandrahughes8645 - I listened to the album version of 'Autobahn' a while ago and noticed several sounds and ideas I'd heard in later Electronic bands' songs 🙂
And my very first Kraftwerk experience (a performance of 'Die Roboter' on German TV in '78, when I was only 8) had creeped me out 😅
Steve Strange stayed with me for a short time when he didn’t have a home. Sweet guy. These were great times for me. The fashion , the music , being in a band , and the clubs like the Blitz. ❤
He was a lovely guy. Used to DJ at The Face club in the 2000s and at his last birthday party. I do miss him ❤️
I'm stunned that you reacted to Visage!
Ditto!
Double Ditto...wow!
Triple.lol.
Amen
This song is music history, you should have heard it a long time ago.
Steve Strange is also in the David Bowie’s Ashes to Ashes video.
Believe he created the look for the video as well.
Yes!
David Bowie reached out to Steve Strange to create the looks for the Ashes to Ashes video after being fascinated by the looks of the people at his club, The Blitz, where only London's most fashionable and glamorous people were allowed in. Steve is seen walking next to Bowie in parts of the video.
Wow, never knew that!
Ashes to Ashes - YES!!!
The lead singer of Visage Steve Strange was the co founder of The Blitz club in London that was the launch pad for British 80's electronic music and was the home of Spandau Ballet, Boy George, Adam Ant as well as Visage, and Ultravox. Then you had The Rum Runner in Birmingham UK, which was a similar club to The Blitz and that club is where Duran Duran was formed. Maybe John Foxx Burning Car next for your New Wave journey.
@simply_psi wasn't steve strange also the leader of sigue sigue sputnik?
@@jay-bt2luEr,no
This isn't electric music or new wave it's new Romantic
@smallsmalls3889 if you watch the documentary Blitz Kids they hated being called New Romantics, which was given by The NME and referred to the fashion not the music, the music was always referred to as either New Wave, Synth-pop or Elecronic/Elecronica. Steve Strange said that nobody actually involved in the movement actually called themselves New Romantics, they even made fun of Duran Duran for using New Romantic as a song Lyric. I also know this as I used to get into the Rum Runner in Birmingham in the early 80's as an impressionable 14/15 year old and similar to Blitz they used to play early electronic music pioneers like Kraftwerk and Roxy Music along with David Bowie and of course later there own music like John Foxx, Cabaret Voltare, Depeche Mode, Spandau Ballet (the early stuff not the nauseating Gold, True etc), The Human League, Joy Division, Tubeway Army, The Normal, Visage (of course), Japan etc.
@jay-bt2lu that was Martin Degville who was also a regular at Blitz along with Marilyn, Siobhan Fahey (Bananarama), Kate Garner (Haysi Fantayzee), Billy Idol and Kirk Brandon (Spear of Destiny), the Blitz was responsible for halfthe UK charts in the early 80s.
44 years after this was released I remain convinced that if a single track could be credited with being the one that introduced the New Romantic movement to the "masses" - and thereby made it popular - it's this one.
RIP Steve Strange.......thank you so so so much for what you achieved with Fade To Grey. (And thanks also for your other wonderful tunes. The Damned Don't Cry, Love Glove, and Mind Of A Toy immediately spring to mind.)
Night Train
@@charliegeorge9393 The smell of French cologne on that train? 🙃
You have not yet reacted to KRAFTWERK the German synthesiser group from the 1970s than spawned all this 1980s synth pop. Their breakthrough hit was 1974s “Autobahn” but perhaps listen to 1978s “The Model” first, it went to No 1 in the UK when released as a single in 1981. The Beatles and Kraftwerk have been dubbed the two most influential bands in pop music history. Their influence on 1980s UK synth bands is very obvious. They are amazing. Robot Soul !!
Definitely should react to Kraftwerk. One of the most influential bands in popular music.
And the inspired a lot of early house musicians too
Huge fan of Kraftwerk here like those English kids … their look and music influenced all the 80s.
The origin of all this actually comes from experimental musicians in the 1940’s who were from the classical tradition-the “Musique Concrete” school in France for example, or Karl Heinz Stockhausen.
HUGE influence on the original New York Hip-Hop scene too.
I knew Steve, (Harrington)- Strange and went to school with him in South Wales, he was always someone who was never going to conform but a genuinely nice and gentle person. A sad loss, so young.
❤
Oh, and the violin at the end is played by Billy Currie . . . from Ultravox! :)
And Gary Numan for a while. Also Chris Payne from Gary Numan’s band.
@@stevenlewington553 - and I think Rusty Egan was as well, who was co-owner of the Blitz club with Steve Strange. He was also the drummer in the short-lived pop-punk band The Rich Kids, with Midge Ure (again!) and Glen Matlock, who was tbe original bass player for the Sex Pistols.
And lyrics written by Midge Ure … from Ultravox
He was also in Tubeway army 😊
Rusty Egan was also in both bands, with Ure and Currie, and also co-wrote the songs.
I'M SO EXCITED ABOUT MIDGE URE! I saw him live a few years ago and he has sooooo many great stories. He's been there done that for everything in the music world!
I’ve been to see him twice - once solo with a guitar and with a quartet band. So much talent and a real humble guy
when's he on, I can't find it
@@paulhutchinson323 it's hard to find. For whatever reason, they put their reactions with guests on a channel (or a playlist??) called Rob Squad and the Creators, but I don't see any way to search it. Here's a link to a playlist and Midge Ure should be on there somewhere. th-cam.com/video/05myqZrW9VA/w-d-xo.html
Certified banger. I watched a reaction the other day for this song and the two English chaps gave us a history lesson for members of Visage. The main founder was Steve Strange. He and his friends were the pioneers of the New Romantics. They opened up a nightclub called The Blitz, formed the band Visage (the singer was the bouncer at the club), and they even published a magazine highlighting the New Romantics culture. Another prominent member of the New Romantics was Boy George. Pretty cool history of New Wave.
Steve strange was known to be quite particular on who he let in, in the clubs and he would turn away famous people from time to time, literally standing outside saying "no you can't come in"
@@NicholasSarsby one of the more famous turn aways was Mick Jagger
Odd no mention of Midge Ure or Billy Currie (both from Ultravox) who were the main contributors to Visage's first album - and their second I can't remember.
Or Chris Payne! @@gphunter99
Steve wasn’t a bouncer per se, he checked everyone before letting them in … you could omly look fabulous … cool.
When I listen to this song I usually follow it with Don't Go by Yazoo. I'm literally doing it once I finish typing this.
YAY! About Time! Fade To Grey By Visage is the reason why I fall in love with the 80s. It is a typical 80s song.
If you have Midge Ure coming on you have a huge personality. One he’s a Scottish guy. Two he’s famous for his band Ultravox and MOST importantly he worked closely with Bob Geldof to organise the 1985 Band Aid which led to Live Aid and Live 8 phenomenon which played on our TV screens in the UK and the USA - Live Aid had an amazing set by Freddie Mercury and Queen that was iconic. Do your research and you will have a huge star in Midge Ure whom I would say is one of the most down to earth people ever. Mr. James Ure also helped organise Nelson Mandela 70th Birthday Tribute.
I believe Midge Ure is the only artist to have encompassed five different musical genres.
1. Slick...Teen pop
2. Rich Kids...punk/post Punk
3. Ultravox....New wave/ synth pop
4. Thin Lizzy...Rock
5. Midge Ure...solo artist
An incredibly talented musician/ songwriter/producer. I've seen him play on many occasions, amazing performer.
I'd love you guys to listen to Enigma, Sadness or their Return to Innocence. I'm glad you're expanding!
That's "Sadeness", and yes Enigma made great music. Well worth a listen.
@@Kavala76 Autocorrect :)
Immersive art is so spot on . We didn't need drugs or alcohol just the music took us to another level .
These were the best years in my life .
Have you guys done yet bronski beat "smalltown boys" or katrina amd the waves "walking on sunshine" . Both bangers
You got that right guys! As a full blown 80s New Waver, it was an awesome time to be a teenager and a college student. This music transformed my life! First time I went into a Club was in '85. It was a New Wave Club. That's the real way I got introduced to this music, and after that first night, my life was never the same! It literally was transformative! Even though I already knew a lot of the more commercial side of New Wave, with a lot of radio hits by '85, going into a club and listening to the stuff that wasn't being played on the radio was jaw dropping to me! For me, it became a before and after moment! Long live New Wave!!!!!
Wow! Never thought I'd see this one here :) thx!!!
Right?! They're really opening up. Now I'd love to get them into like some Blancmange or something.
@@hellokimmy68 rich decade to mine for sure
me too
My jaw DROPped....
Two notes in and I was back to being a 16 year old in a club (trying to remember to look like I'm 18) wearing black lipstick, gold eyes and thick black liner, with so much hairspray I think I had my own personal hole in the ozone layer.
Forgive yourself because it was AQUA-NET's Fault !
You’ve found the 80s, the best ever decade for music, the decade of new romantic music, not new wave
Another 80's banger.
Amber and Jay can you please react to Alphaville - *Forever Young* and *Big in Japan* and also Bronski Beat *Smalltown Boy* and *Why*
Thanks
Visage were part of a sub-genre of New Wave known as New Romantic. (See also Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Culture Club). Bowie was a big influence for this movement. The video for 'Ashes to Ashes' features Visage's singer, Steve Strange, and friends.
Finally someone talking sense, I thought the whole time that they were talking about New Romantic when they called it New Wave (which it is as well), they did not realize yet that they had reacted to tons of New Wave bands already, it's just New Romantic that's new for them.
New Romantic and synth pop could have very similar sounds, however no one called Depeche Mode New Romantic, if only they could have found their way a decent tailor! Bonus points for those who get the reference 😉
New romantic was created at Steve Strange, pleasure. That's all!
Dude , YOU need to watch Duran Duran - Planet Earth , one of the best Romantic New Wave
Visage were at the forefront of a sub genre called New Romantics that started in the late 70s with bands like Spandau Ballet, Culture Club, Duran Duran and A Flock Of Seagulls. Their style was influenced by people like David Bowie and Marc Bolan and Brian Ferry.
" Visage" by Visage is another banger. Early 80s club classic.
You guys should check out a documentary called "Blitzed", which showcased the early 80s new wave scene (the fans of which were referred to as "Blitz Kids"). It features everyone from Midge Ure to Boy George to the singer of this band, the late Steve Strange.
This is what I was coming here to say. Such a good documentary, amazing how intertwined all these bands and artists were. Such an exciting time. I'm sad I was just a kid when all this was happening, but I would never have been cool enough for it!
@@hlc1975 - yeah, I was 8 or 9 at the time. :)
Thanks for this, I hadn't heard of that movie. Watching right now. It's free on Tubi.
I worked with the director and actually came up for the outline for the project
The decade when synthesizers became the principal instrument in a song just behind the vocals!!! Drum machines were heard in abundance too!!!
Love the British stuff!
Steve unfortunately passed away in 2015 @ 55yo the world wasn't ready for the New Romantic wave of New Wave. The makeup, clothing, Blitz kids or Klub kids ahhhh the memories ♥️ 🌈 🏳️🌈 💋
I miss him. It was my honour to DJ at his last birthday party ❤
Wow- first Ultravox!, now Visage.
Next up- "Love Shadow" by Fashion. :)
Good call. That one or Move On
You guys really have to give Plastic Bertrand - Ça plane pour moi. I know you would love it. A bit of French Post punk.
I thought he was Belgian? Whatever...
@@Kavala76 You're right he is.
Yes please!
Loved Visage. R.I.P. Steve Strange. Front man of visage. Bought so much to new romantic era. Starred in David Bowie Ashes to Ashes video. Bowie bought this movement on
Hi Jay and Amber! It's Andrew Erroch fae Paisley in Scotland here. You're having Midge Ure on your show? Wow! What a guest to have. Remember to ask him about Live Aid. And, please also say hello to him from me, a fellow Scot and a fan of him amazing catalogue of work. Æx 🙏
On 12 February 2015, Steve Strange suffered a heart attack, at the age of 55, whilst in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt; he died later that day in hospital.
Fade to Grey entered the UK Top 40 in late December 1980 and it peaked at no.8 in early February 1981. This is the Top 10 from early Feb.
1 - John Lennon - Woman
2 - Ultravox - Vienna
3 - Phil Collins - In the air tonight
4 - John Lennon - Imagine
5 - Blondie - Rapture
6 - Adam & The Ants - Ant music
7 - Rainbow - I surrender
8 - Joe Dolce Music Theatre - Shaddup you face
9 - Yarborough & Peoples - Don't stop the music
10 - Visage - Fade to grey
Also in this weeks Top 40
Dire Straits - Romeo and Juliet
Adam & The Ants - Young Parisians
Spandau Ballet - The Freeze
Stevie Wonder - I ain't gonna stand for it
Diana Ross - It's my turn
The Stray Cats - Rock this town
The Specials - Do nothing
XTC - Sgt Rock (Is going to help me)
The Boomtown Rats - The Elephant's graveyard
The Passions - I'm in love with a German film star
Bad Manners - Lorraine
Queen - Flash
The Beat - Too nice to talk to
David Bowie - Scary monsters (And super creeps)
The Jam - That's entertainment
And a few more tracks from the following weeks......
Talking Heads - Once in a lifetime
Roxy Music - Jealous guy
Toyah - It's a mystery
The Teardrop Explodes - Reward
Kim Wilde - Kids in America
Duran Duran - Planet Earth
Visage - Mind of a toy
Landscape - Einstein a go-go
Linx - Intuition
New Order - Ceremony
8 - Joe Dolce Music Theatre - Shaddup you face.....the song that robbed Ultravox of no.1 for Vienna. :(
75% of that chart are stone cold classics - 1979-82 really was an era of unbridled creativity.
How far we have fallen.
No Devo, Whip it?
Amazing. And by no means unique. There are plenty of weeks in the early to mid 80s where the charts were jam packed with iconic songs.
Finally! ICONIC song! Defined a movement. An importan step in New Romantic and a big step in development of elctronic. And still just f***ing cool.
Midge Ure together with Bob Geldof created Band Aid which led to the Live Aid concert at Wembley stadium in London in 1985. In Britain Midge Ure is rock royalty.
RIP Steve Strange ... im so glad i was a teenager during the eighties in the UK ... what a place ... what a time !
Amazing the Midge Ure is coming on with you guys, but be prepared for his really thick Scots accent!
Eh ? You high ? 😅…. Midge has a classical easy to understand Scot’s accent .. I KNOW .. cos I have a thick Scottish accent myself 😆
👍🏴
@@jaymacgee_A_Bawbag_Blethering probably to americans
@@charliegeorge9393 I hear what your saying , but there’s Scot’s accents and there’s Scot’s accents , Sean Connery got a free pass and was 💯 understood but Frankie Boyle not so much 😝
👍🏴
@@jaymacgee_A_Bawbag_Blethering Easy for you perhaps
@@gotham61 😧 still with this huh ?
Yikes .. a stalker 🤯
👍🏴
Love, love, love "Fade to Grey". Never get tired listening to it. Miss you, Steve Strange, rest in peace.
That sound, that guy (Steve Strange and his make-up), that song... it was FIRE when it was released. I was 9 years old then and completely hypnotised with Visage
You find that fascinating in 2024, imagine back in 1980!!!!!!!!
@@jeanpeuxplus7257 This song is a prime example of how creative you can get with synthesizers. I was 4 in late 1980, early 1981.
The makeup was applied by Richard Shara who often did makeup on David Bowie and people like Toyah.
He was a local lad , and he stood out to say the least.
I was born 71. So the music you're talking about I grew up with. It wasn't until 87 I hit clubs. Wonderful times. I loved all old New Wave and Synth pop, and foremost I was so goth😊. I've missed you, you haven't showed up in my feed. Again hugs from Sweden.
Another great 80s choice Jay and Amber. A couple of artists you should react to again that were popular during the 80s are New Order and Depeche Mode. From New Order listen to the version of "Bizarre Love Triangle" from the Substance album and Depeche Mode's live version of "I Just Can't Get Enough" from DM 101. I know you reacted to the studio version, but you haven't really heard that song until you hear the live DM 101 version. Thanks for all you do, blessings!
I grew up in this and the punk rock era and never consciously thought of New Wave being an immersive art but Amber really nailed it. That was a brilliant analogy.
I am stunned that you guys went down the rabbit hole of visage...you have surprised me with your toe dip into new wave....you haven't even scratched the surface yet...I am sure many will suggest artists and songs....new wave was an escape for British 20somethings that needed an escape from being on the dole or working horrible 9-5 hrs...new wave didn't last long but defined the early 80s...if you listen to 80s radio nowadays, it's dominated by new wave artists that weren't given the time of day except on college radio...peace
Yeah it surprised me as well. They are very eclectic.
This is Still sounds as Fresh as it did in the 80’s.
Visage started in 1978 when Midge Ure (Ultravox) & Rusty Egan (The Rich Kids) began to produce the Music that they Wanted to hear in the clubs.
Rusty & Steve Strange were Promotors & Hosts nights at the Blitz Club. Steve had sung vocals in some Punk bands, so he was brought in to provide vocals. And Billy Currie (Ultravox), John McGeoch, Barry Adamson & Dave Formula (Magazine) completed Visage. And because of Contractual obligations & Band commitments Steve became the Face (Visage) of the Band.
Rusty is Still a DJ/Producer and (Gratuitous name drop) recently worked with a friend of mine, DJ/Producer Paul Goodyear aka SanFranDisko.
The Age of the Blitz Kids ;) .... cold and futuristic never sounded better.
I grew-up with this song since I was a kid, it was my honour in later life to get to know Steve Strange and to DJ at his clubs and to DJ at his very last birthday party before he sadly passed away. He is sorely missed ❤
The singer in the make up in white & the black clothing he is called Steve Strange.
RIP Steve Strange!
@@fernandocuriel124 RIP To Steve a True Pioneer!
@@fernandocuriel124when and how did he die ??
@@fernandocuriel124 Indeed, a sad loss to music.
Steve Strange (singer) also turns up in David Bowies Ashes To Ashes video
Anyone mentioned yet that the lead singer of Visage, Steve Strange, had his hand in David Bowies' Ashes to Ashes video, and is in it just as well.
"Kings of the Wild Frontier" awesome drumming.
Midge Ure is a GREAT composer! He is responsible for the genius in the Ultravox songs and also for Band Aid's "Do They Know It's Christmas", as well as for the unique pop rarity of Thin Lizzy's Phil Lynott solo successful single in the UK, "Yellow Pearl". Moreover, Midge also has his very own share of solo efforts in the likes of "If I Was", "The Man Who Sold The World" (a David Bowie cover, many years before a certain Nirvana) and "Breathe", just to name a couple.
The bass player of U2 (Adam Clayton) was inspired by the synthesizer in this song when he wrote the bass line for "New Year's Day".
Cool, this is one of my favorite new wave songs that I have on my playlist but don’t have think I’ve ever heard anyone react to.
I'm 59, the clubs on Long Island NY, Paris NY, Spit, Mirage, Malibu, Spize, 1980-1987, was an amazing time.
Midge Ure? Amazing. Make sure you react to Dancing With Tears In My Eyes before you talk to him - and maybe revisit the Band Aid song too, as he co-wrote it.
Fantastic! This is one of my favourite '80's songs, this takes me back to the early '80's.
Great reaction as always, wishing you both well and sending peace.
These were the New Romantics, not so much New Wave, although thete is definitely an overlap. really interesting little movement..
If you only knew what a superstar Midge Ure is in music. We're talking about the guy who co wrote Band Aid's Do you know it's Christmas and helped organise Live Aid.
Spandau Ballet started out in the New Romantic scene too and a good example of that would have been To Cut a long story short.
Steve Strange is the singer in Visage and he also appears in the video for David Bowies's Ashes to Ashes. He was also the manager/owner of the Blitz Club in Soho London. Boy George and Pete Burns from Dead or Alive worked there. Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran and a host of other artists frequented the club, and famously Mick Jagger got turned away from there for not being dressed in a cool enough way, oh and it was David Bowie visiting there that led to Steve Strange being in his video. Xx
I consider this song one of the best ever. It's truly "immersive", it's pure art, it's melancholy, it's superb. It has been stuck in my head for 44 years!
Wow, you're talking to Midge Ure? The guy is a massive star. I'm lucky enough to have seen Ultravox live in Belfast in the 80's, incredible performance. Well done RSR.
I used to work with Steve’s mum. She was lovely. This is a banger. He was very much a fan of David Bowie, he was in the Ashes To Ashes video.
All New Wave Synth Pop roads lead back to Kraftwerk...
Autobahn
Thank you. I recommended Kraftwerk too. Anything will do, it’s all brilliant.
@@chiefsohcahtoa3285oh, that’s a good one to listen to on my cycle to work this morning.
A lot of music goes back to Kraftwerk. Most surprisingly, hip-hop.
@@Oxmustube Planet Rock!
Use to see steve strange walking around Porthcwal in South Wales.
Guys check out "I.O.U." by British musical group Freeez, released in 1983 🔥
I am always be a new Waver ( 1970 ) love this great music.
One of the things I've always loved about '80's New Wave videos is that they were more art films than videos as this one surely proved. One of the locations to hear songs like this in the '80's wasn't necessarily in the clubs, but rather the Gay Bathhouses. TMI? Maybe, but that's where I remember hearing this song. The bathhouse in West Hollywood was well known for its interesting music. There was a guy that worked there known only as 'Wizard" who provided the music.
Thanks. Heard this song first time 43 years ago & still fond of it. It never ages.
Fantastic
Everybody thought the synths were taking over and would ruin music, but they didn't.
Auto-tune has done that.
Good song writing and performance will always stand up.
Real instruments and vinyl are back in fashion in the last decade
When I was 18y.o. I was part of a group of young people taking part in a live BBC Radio 1 show discussing youth trends, music and styles.
Steve Strange was meant to be the celebrity contributor but he was so off his head on something he barely said a word or even acknowledge we were there.
It definitely caught up with him, RIP
Doesn't get any more iconic than Steve Strange when it comes to the New Romantics. Also, I highly recommend Meow Wolf if you get the chance to go! I've only been to the original one in New Mexico, but it was a mind-blowing experience 🤩
80s New Wave is, by far, my favorite genre. I was in high school when it hit the airwaves and it changed my taste in music forever.
Give Feels like Heaven by Fiction Factory a turn
Which in my head always leads on to The Politics Of Dancing by Re-flex, an underapprecoated banger.
I think the 80's song that has the most layering, at least that I can think of is This Corrosion by Sisters Of Mercy, which I also don't think you've listened to yet. By the end of it, there is so much happening at the same time and yet it all works.
When do you get to Nina Hagen?
Or spliff "Radio show"
I saw Steve perform not long before he passed and he still had that 'je ne sais quoi' about him, despite what substance abuse did to him. Great performer x
These sounds were like a breath of fresh air compared to some of the music coming from America
An absolute banger - I remember when it was released and helped change music forever
Try Bjork 'Army of me'. If you want a unique female artist from the 80s and 90s.
Loved this song when it first came out [and still do], a group made up of artists from other groups.
I've just turned 63 and was born in the right era.
I would give anything to go back to those times [and stay there] than be were we are today!
Edit: Still have my extensive record collection especially 12" singles.
thank you Guys for reading/listening to my comment a view Days ago After checking out Vienna...??? Im proud of you 2 thank you again....???? Now you have to check out Midge Ure ( Ultravox/Visage ) his 🙏first Nr. 1 Song/Hit Worldwide from 1985 If I Was...???? Im really proud of you Guys Well done.....👍
The father and inspiration for New Romantic movement.
Great reaction! 💙 This song is definitely new wave and possibly new romantic since it was released in 1980. The most popular artist to have come out of the new romantic scene was Duran Duran.
You guys might want to react to Duran Duran's first video for Planet Earth. It's a very good example of new romantic/new wave.
The thing about the new romantics was that their clothing and fashion sense were outrageous. Prior to joining Culture Club, Boy George was a major part of that scene.😊
A certified New Wave classic, without a doubt! "Frequency 7" would be another Visage tune I'd highly recommend! (the original track, NOT the up-tempo remix) Takes me back to the underground clubs, back in the day.
EDIT: You guys MUST also try Heaven 17's "Let Me Go", one of my all-time New Wave favorites.
Incredible song and band! A period of music that was unique. That techno/New Romantic sound was everywhere. Bands & artists were popping up everywhere, especially out of England - Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran, Soft Cell, The Human League, Culture Club, Ultravox, OMD, A Flock of Seagulls, Thompson Twins, ABC, Yazoo. The list goes on and on. These bands found a lane and just pumped out an incredible amount of amazing music in the early days of the 80's and we were fortunate that MTV was hitting its stride and could get some fantastic videos from them as well.
Please read up on Midge Ure before you have him on - he is very important in music history.
First time I’ve heard this was back in the mid 80”s and it stayed on my top list till today. Thanks guys!
This is a banger
Love Your reactions - keep up the good work You two 😉❤️👍🏻
I was born in 1971 and became interested in music from 1980 and at that time new wave, synth pop, electronic pop broke through.
At the same time MTV began and I love all the fantastic music videos that was made - very creative 📽️
I still love that music today - groups like: Depeche Mode, Yazoo, Erasure, Kraftwerk, New Order, Soft Cell, Human League, OMD, Visage etc. 🎹
Greetings from a danish Rob Squad fan 🇩🇰😉
If you are on a New Wave kick. One of the most requested songs when I was DJ'ing back in the 80's was - Band: Clan of Xymox. Song Title: "Imagination." (Great Song).
Clan of Xymox fan over here. So many great tracks to choose from--personally I would love for them to react to either Home Sweet Home or Jasmine and Rose.
@@blankbruno70 also great songs. Also “Blind Hearts.” 🙏
This has been in my music rotation forever...it is such a vibe.
“Being Boiled” by Human League is in a league of its own.
I second that. Human League with founding members Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh was phenomenal. The more commercial version with the girls are also good but the original band was incredible.
I totally agree. I still get chills when I hear the intro to this song. Hearing it live a Powderham Castle a few years ago has to be a highlight of all the gigs I've been to. Awesome song!!!!
100%
@voxsilen Their first two albums, Reproduction and Travelogue were fire. I relate Ths Human League to Fleetwood Mac in that the first iteration was more raw, talented and avant-garde but the later iteration was still a good band and was more commercially successful and mass appealing but unfortunately lost a bit of its soul along the way.
Not for me but have you heard the Unlimited Orchestra Love and Dancing?
Oh Steve Strange, such a beautiful man 😍😍😍
The 12” of this is fabulous!
not to forget OMD and Alphaville
Alphaville has nothing to do with this, they were not British and their music was extremely commercial. Visage was number 1 in Germany for 7 weeks with an ultra avant-garde song, no one has been able to achieve something like that. The same for OMD, who in Germany their "Maid Of Orleans" was the third best-selling song of the entire decade.
I remember when this came out and had to get the 12inch single. Played it so much. Never tire listening to it - originals, remakes and reactions.
RIP Steve Strange
A Pioneer in New Wave !!
RIP Steve. Miss him ❤
So creative ,R I P steve
Ooo boy deep 80s stuff , this was 80s with attitude they dissed jagger.
For which Boy George criticised Steve Strange.