John Crawford, American singer-songwriter and guitarist

John Buckner Crawford: The Formative Years of a Pop Music Pioneer and Berlin Co-Founder

John Buckner Crawford, born on January 17, 1960, is a distinguished American singer-songwriter widely recognized as the co-founder of the seminal 1980s pop group Berlin. This iconic band achieved significant commercial success throughout the decade, scoring several chart-topping and widely beloved hit songs that defined the synth-pop and new wave era.

Crawford's journey into the world of music began unexpectedly during his junior high years. A basketball game injury left him with a broken leg, confining him and sparking a profound boredom. To alleviate this monotony, he picked up a guitar and commenced taking lessons at a local musical instrument retailer situated in the nearby city of Fullerton, California. This pivotal decision not only introduced him to the instrument but also to key individuals who would become his future bandmates. His guitar teacher played a crucial role in connecting him with budding musicians Dan Van Patten, Chris Velasco, and Tyson Cobb, laying the groundwork for what would become a significant force in music. John himself attended El Dorado High School in Placentia, California, which further established his roots in the Southern California music scene.

The Genesis of Berlin: From The Toys to Early Endeavors

The collaborative efforts of Crawford, Cobb, and the others quickly materialized into a nascent musical project initially named The Toys, with Tyson "Ty" Cobb serving as the vocalist. Their collective sound was a fascinating blend of diverse contemporary influences. On one hand, they drew inspiration from the raw, rebellious energy of influential punk rockers such as the British band Sex Pistols, known for their provocative stance and anti-establishment anthems. On the other, they were equally captivated by the sophisticated electronic soundscapes of the burgeoning synth-pop genre, particularly the British group Ultravox, a pioneer in the new wave movement. Interestingly, Crawford has also cited the legendary American rock band KISS as a formative and early influence, showcasing his eclectic musical palate even before his mainstream success.

After a period of development and a significant name change, the band officially became known as Berlin. This initial iteration of Berlin remained active for approximately three years. However, the group faced a significant challenge when vocalist Ty Cobb departed. A string of vocalists subsequently attempted to fill the void, indicating the band's persistent search for the right artistic fit.

In 1980, Berlin, now fronted by vocalist Virginia Macolino, released their debut extended play (EP) titled "Information" on the independent label Zone H. Records. This release offered an early glimpse into their developing sound. Later the same year, the band secured a brief but notable signing with I.R.S. Records, an independent record label that would become highly influential in the 1980s for championing alternative and new wave artists. Under I.R.S., Berlin released the single "A Matter of Time." Despite these promising early steps and affiliations with respected labels, this initial lineup of Berlin surprisingly disbanded in 1981, marking the end of their first chapter before the band's later resurgence and widespread success that would truly define their legacy.

Frequently Asked Questions About John Crawford and Early Berlin

When and where was John Buckner Crawford born?
John Buckner Crawford was born on January 17, 1960, in the United States.
How did John Crawford's music career begin?
His music career began in junior high after he broke his leg during a basketball game. To combat boredom during his recovery, he picked up a guitar and started taking lessons, which led him to connect with future band members.
What was the original name of the band that became Berlin?
The band was initially named "The Toys" before changing to Berlin.
Which bands influenced early Berlin?
Early Berlin was influenced by diverse acts including punk rock pioneers like the Sex Pistols, synth-pop innovators such as Ultravox, and hard rock legends like KISS, according to Crawford himself.
Did this early iteration of Berlin achieve major hits?
While John Crawford co-founded the band that would later score several hit songs in the 1980s, this specific early lineup of Berlin, which released the "Information" EP and "A Matter of Time" single, disbanded in 1981 before the group's later widespread commercial success.