Spandau Ballet has been at the center of debates about New Wave music since their rise to fame in the 1980s. While some critics have argued that their biggest hits were too commercialized and lacked substance, there is no denying that Spandau Ballet helped define an era of music that still lives on today. This blog post will take a look at both what critics feel is lacking in Spandau Ballet's discography as well as why they have become such iconic figures within pop culture history. So whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering them for the first time, let's dive into what makes Spandau Ballet so great (and not-so-great)!
When it comes to bands that defined the New Wave movement of the 1980s, Spandau Ballet is always at or near the top of the list. Their unique blend of pop, rock, and electronic music helped them achieve worldwide fame, producing several hit singles that still resonate with audiences today. However, while many fans view them as a symbol of the era, critics have long argued that much of their music is forgettable, overly commercialized, and lacks the depth of other New Wave bands. So which view is correct? In this post, we’ll examine Spandau Ballet’s music and their cultural significance to help determine what makes them so great and why they continue to be remembered decades later.
First, let’s explore the criticisms that some have levied against the group. To some ears, Spandau Ballet’s music may seem overly focused on catchy pop hooks and slick production values, with shallow lyrics that often prioritize style over substance. While hits like “True” and “Gold” are undeniably catchy, they also tend to be quite repetitive and simplistic, lacking the depth and complexity of other New Wave artists like The Cure or Joy Division. Additionally, some have criticized the band’s tendency to embrace mainstream commercial success, which can make their music feel more calculated and less genuine.
That being said, it’s impossible to deny the impact that Spandau Ballet had on the music industry and popular culture at large. As one of the biggest bands of the 1980s, they helped define the so-called New Romantic movement, which centered around fashion, style, and decadence. Their distinctive image, marked by flamboyant clothing and heavy makeup, was a vital part of this cultural moment, and helped inspire the larger New Wave movement. Additionally, their influence can still be felt in contemporary music, with artists like The 1975 and Dua Lipa citing them as an inspiration.
Furthermore, while some may dismiss Spandau Ballet’s music as shallow or simplistic, there is an undeniable emotional power to many of their songs. “True,” for example, may seem cheesy to some, but its soaring orchestration and heartfelt lyrics have earned it a place in the canon of pop balladry. Similarly, tracks like “Through the Barricades” and “Empty Spaces” showcase the band’s ability to craft poignant, affecting songs that speak to universal human experiences. At their best, Spandau Ballet were able to combine catchy pop hooks with genuine emotional depth, creating music that still resonates with listeners today.
In addition to their musical achievements, Spandau Ballet are also remembered for their impact on fashion and celebrity culture. Their flamboyant style and over-the-top stage shows helped to define the “new romantic” aesthetic, which embraced dramatic clothing, makeup, and hair. This trend would go on to influence countless designers, artists, and musicians in the decades to come, cementing Spandau Ballet’s place at the forefront of pop culture. Additionally, the band’s outsized celebrity status helped make them international icons, further solidifying their place in the cultural pantheon.
While Spandau Ballet have long been at the center of debates about New Wave music, it’s clear that their cultural significance can’t be denied. Though some critics may argue that their music is overly commercialized or simplistic, there’s no denying the emotional punch of their best songs, nor the enduring impact they’ve had on fashion and popular culture. As we continue to look back on the music of the 1980s, Spandau Ballet will undoubtedly remain a fixture in the cultural imagination.
