Heaven 17 is a renowned British synth-pop band that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their unique sound and style have made them popular and influential in the rock-pop genre, impressing fans with their unforgettable melodies, intricate lyrics, and fantastic live performances.
Heaven 17 was formed in Sheffield, England in 1980 by Martyn Ware, Ian Craig Marsh, and Glenn Gregory after they left a previous band called The Human League. The band's name, Heaven 17, was inspired by the fictional pop group mentioned in Anthony Burgess's novel "A Clockwork Orange." The group's first single, "We Don't Need This Fascist Groove Thang," was released in 1981, and it quickly gained popularity, reaching number 45 on the UK singles chart.
The band's follow-up single, "Temptation," went on to become a massive commercial success, peaking at number two in the UK charts. Their debut album, "Penthouse and Pavement," was released in September 1981 and was critically acclaimed. The album produced hits such as "Let Me Go" and "Play to Win."
Heaven 17 continued to release successful albums and singles over the next few years, including their 1983 album "The Luxury Gap," which featured their hit single "Temptation." The song was even covered by a variety of artists, including Kelly Clarkson and Within Temptation.
One of the unique characteristics of the band is their ability to blend different musical styles, combining electronic music with rock, funk, and soul. They also incorporate social and political commentary into their music, often writing about issues ranging from the Cold War to capitalism.
Heaven 17's music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and advertisements, giving them a broad international following. In recent years, the band has been touring extensively and playing many festivals, earning a reputation as a great live act.
In conclusion, Heaven 17 is an iconic British synth-pop band that has carved a niche for themselves in the music industry. Their music is an eclectic mix of electronic, rock, funk, and soul, and they have never shied away from addressing political or social issues in their lyrics. Their live performances are incredible, and they continue to attract new fans with their timeless music.