Tony Hadley, the iconic voice of Spandau Ballet, recently sat down with Smooth Radio’s Paul Phear to discuss his upcoming tour with Boy George and Heaven 17. This tour, celebrating Culture Club’s first two albums, offers a unique opportunity to witness two music legends share the stage. During the interview, Hadley reminisced about his early days in the London club scene and shared his admiration for Boy George.
A Walk Down Memory Lane: The Blitz Club Era
Hadley’s journey began in the vibrant London club scene of the late 1970s, specifically at the iconic Blitz Club. This exclusive club, a hub for emerging artists and fashion pioneers, played a crucial role in shaping the New Romantic movement. Hadley recalled, “It was a wine bar during the day. Then I think it was Steve [Strange] and Rusty [Egan] went along and said, ‘Look, what do you do at night?'”
The club’s exclusivity was legendary, with Steve Strange, the club’s founder, acting as gatekeeper. Even Mick Jagger wasn’t immune to Strange’s discerning eye. Hadley recounted an amusing anecdote, “He once turned away Mick Jagger! And I said to him, ‘What have you done? You’ve turned away Mick Jagger‘. ‘Well, he just didn’t look quite right’.”
Boy George: A Star from the Start
It was within the walls of the Blitz Club that Hadley first encountered a young Boy George, who was working as a coat check attendant. Hadley vividly remembers Boy George’s striking appearance and undeniable star quality, even in those early days.
“George was there. I mean, he was always a striking, stunning. He’s a stunning-looking man to this day. I mean, he really has got stature. He has got star quality. He looks amazing, actually,” Hadley shared.
He acknowledged the challenges Boy George has faced over the years but commended his resilience, “He’s had his troubles, as we all have, but he’s come out of it. He looks a million dollars.”
From Blitz Club to Center Stage: A Musical Journey
Both Tony Hadley and Boy George went on to achieve phenomenal success in the music industry. Hadley, as the frontman of Spandau Ballet, became synonymous with the New Romantic sound with hits like “True” and “Gold.” Boy George, with his band Culture Club, shattered musical barriers and challenged gender norms.
Tony Hadley performing with Spandau Ballet
This upcoming tour, a celebration of their shared musical heritage, offers fans a unique opportunity to witness two icons reunite on stage. Hadley expressed his enthusiasm for the tour, hinting at a potential collaborative performance. He will be performing hits from Spandau Ballet’s True and Parade albums alongside Boy George and Heaven 17.
A Testament to Timelessness
The upcoming tour is not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane but a testament to the enduring power of music and its ability to transcend time. Tony Hadley and Boy George, two artists who rose to prominence in the vibrant 1980s, continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Their story, intertwined since those early days at the Blitz Club, serves as a reminder that true artistry remains timeless. Fans can look forward to witnessing these musical legends share the stage, creating new memories while celebrating the songs that defined a generation.
