Deaths on February 12

Steve Strange, Welsh singer (b. 1959)

Stephen John Harrington (28 May 1959 – 12 February 2015), globally recognized by his enigmatic professional name, Steve Strange, was a transformative Welsh singer, impresario, and cultural architect whose influence profoundly shaped the music and fashion landscapes of the late 20th century. From his pivotal role as a nightclub host and promoter in the late 1970s, he emerged as the charismatic leader of the seminal new wave synth-pop group Visage, indelibly known for their iconic single "Fade to Grey." Strange was not merely a musician but a visionary, becoming one of the most influential figures behind the flamboyant and genre-defining New Romantic movement of the early 1980s.

The Genesis of a Cultural Icon: Steve Strange's Early Influence

Born in Newbridge, Monmouthshire, Wales, Steve Strange's journey into the limelight began far from traditional stages. By the late 1970s, he had cultivated a reputation as a discerning and innovative presence within London's burgeoning music and nightlife scenes. His acute understanding of aesthetics and performance transformed him from a mere observer into a pivotal catalyst, setting the stage for a cultural revolution that would echo globally.

The Blitz Club: Incubator of New Romanticism

Strange's most significant early contribution was his co-founding and hosting of The Blitz Club, a legendary weekly event in Covent Garden, London, from 1979 to 1980. Alongside DJ Rusty Egan, Strange meticulously curated an exclusive environment that demanded radical self-expression. The club's stringent door policy, famously dictating that patrons must "look strange to get in," fostered a crucible of creativity where elaborate, often gender-fluid fashion and theatricality were paramount. It was within the gilded walls of The Blitz that the "Blitz Kids," including future stars like Boy George and the members of Spandau Ballet and Culture Club, honed their distinctive styles, effectively giving birth to the New Romantic movement. Strange's role here was not just as a host but as a gatekeeper and muse, dictating the trends that would define an era.

Visage: Pioneering Synth-Pop and the Global Phenomenon of "Fade to Grey"

Leveraging his commanding stage presence and innate theatricality, Strange naturally transitioned into music. He rose to international acclaim as the flamboyant frontman of the synth-pop supergroup Visage. Formed in 1978, Visage brought together an extraordinary lineup, including Midge Ure and Billy Currie from Ultravox, Rusty Egan, and members of Magazine like John McGeoch and Barry Adamson. This collective talent forged a sophisticated, electronic sound that would define the early 1980s.

"Fade to Grey": A Defining Anthem of the New Wave Era

Visage's most enduring legacy is undoubtedly their seminal single, "Fade to Grey," released in 1980. This atmospheric and groundbreaking track quickly became a global sensation, reaching the top 10 in the UK and achieving significant chart success across Europe. "Fade to Grey" was revolutionary for its innovative use of synthesizers, its evocative French spoken-word segment by Brigitte Arens, and its melancholic yet irresistibly captivating melody. The song perfectly encapsulated the new wave aesthetic, blending dark romanticism with cutting-edge electronic production, firmly establishing Visage at the forefront of the burgeoning synth-pop genre and influencing countless artists in its wake.

Steve Strange's Enduring Legacy: A Maestro of Fashion, Music, and Identity

Beyond his musical triumphs with Visage, Steve Strange's profound and lasting impact is inextricably linked to his role as one of the chief architects and most influential figures of the New Romantic movement. This pervasive cultural phenomenon, which flourished in the early 1980s, transcended mere music to encompass fashion, art, and a bold redefinition of identity. Strange, with his distinctive heavy makeup, elaborate historical costumes, and fearless approach to personal style, personified the movement's core philosophy: a deliberate rejection of punk's raw grit in favor of opulent glamour, theatrical escapism, and a playful subversion of traditional gender norms. His pioneering vision inspired legions to embrace theatricality, self-invention, and a decadent aesthetic, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. His foresight helped define an era where artifice and technology converged, setting trends that resonated globally and continue to influence contemporary fashion designers, musicians, and artists.

Frequently Asked Questions About Steve Strange

Who was Steve Strange?

Stephen John Harrington, known professionally as Steve Strange, was a highly influential Welsh singer, nightclub host, and cultural icon (1959-2015). He gained fame as the frontman of the synth-pop band Visage and was a pivotal figure in the New Romantic movement.

What was The Blitz Club?

The Blitz Club was a legendary, exclusive weekly nightclub event in Covent Garden, London, co-founded by Steve Strange in the late 1970s. It was the definitive birthplace and hub for the New Romantic scene, notorious for its strict, elaborate dress code and its influence on emerging music and fashion trends.

What is Visage best known for?

Visage is most widely recognized for their groundbreaking 1980 synth-pop single "Fade to Grey." This iconic track achieved global success, defined the sound of the new wave era, and remains a touchstone of electronic music.

How did Steve Strange influence the New Romantic movement?

Steve Strange was instrumental in shaping the New Romantic movement through multiple avenues: his role as a tastemaker and host at The Blitz Club, his distinctive and pioneering fashion sense that embraced glamour and theatricality, and his flamboyant persona as the lead singer of Visage. He championed self-expression and a bold, artistic approach to identity that captivated and inspired a generation.