October 1, 2024 – In a recent podcast appearance, Spandau Ballet bassist Martin Kemp shocked fans by stating that the idea of a band reunion tour makes him “physically sick.” This revelation comes as a disappointment to those who hoped for a 45th-anniversary celebration tour, especially since Kemp had previously hinted at the possibility.
Spandau Ballet, a prominent band during the New Romantic era of the early 1980s, achieved international acclaim with hits like “Gold” and “True.” The band’s music videos, popularized by MTV, further propelled their success. After selling over 25 million records worldwide, they disbanded in 1990, only to reunite in 2009 for a decade-long stint that ended in 2019.
Spandau Ballet in their prime. (Photo by Sunday Mirror/Mirrorpix/Getty Images)
Kemp Cites Age and Past Experiences
During his interview on the Celebrity Catch Up: Life After That Thing I Did podcast, Kemp reflected on his time with Spandau Ballet. He described the experience as “beautiful,” acknowledging the extraordinary opportunities it presented, such as touring Europe in private jets and enjoying the lifestyle of a rock star.
However, the 62-year-old bassist confessed that he doesn’t yearn for a return to that chapter of his life. The physical demands of touring, especially at his current age, hold little appeal for him.
“As much as people would like to see it get back together, I don’t think it ever will,” Kemp stated. “The five of us had the most beautiful experience that you could ever get.” He went on to add, “Being a rock star is a great experience. But do I want to go back there? I think if somebody gave me a ticket to go around the world on tour now, I’d be physically sick. So I’m quite happy with what I do now.”
Strained Relationships and Past Conflicts
Kemp’s reluctance to reunite with Spandau Ballet might stem from more than just the physical toll of touring. The band’s history is marked by internal conflicts, particularly the departure of lead vocalist Tony Hadley.
Hadley first left the band in 1990, citing disagreements over royalties and management. Though they reunited in 2009, Hadley’s second departure in 2017 further strained their relationship.
Spandau Ballet reunited in 2009 before Tony Hadley's second departure in 2017. (Photo by Brian Rasic/Getty Images)
Kemp has previously admitted that he would only consider a reunion if Hadley was on board. This condition suggests that the relationship dynamics within the band remain complex.
Reflecting on the Past, Embracing the Present
Despite the challenges and internal conflicts, Kemp acknowledges the impact Spandau Ballet had on his life and the music industry. He describes his younger self as “a young boy that had an incredible experience.”
Looking back at old footage of the band, Kemp admits to feeling detached. “It’s kind of like I’m looking at somebody else. When I see it on TV now and again, or I hear it on the radio – it doesn’t sound like me, it doesn’t look like me anymore,” he confessed. “It’s a young boy that had an incredible experience and I find it removed from being me. And I think that’s the best place for it in some ways.”
Moving Forward: No Reunion in Sight
While Kemp’s recent statements might disappoint fans hoping for a Spandau Ballet reunion, they offer a candid glimpse into the realities of fame, the passage of time, and the complexities of band dynamics.
For now, it seems the members of Spandau Ballet are content with their individual pursuits, leaving their legacy as a defining sound of the New Romantic era intact.
