Philip Oakey & The Human League: A Synth-Pop Journey
Has the phone ever truly stopped ringing for Philip Oakey, the iconic frontman of The Human League? For over four decades, his distinctive voice and pioneering approach to electronic music have kept him at the forefront of the music scene, a testament to his enduring influence.
Born in Hinckley, Leicestershire, England, on October 2, 1955, Philip Oakey's journey into the world of music was an unexpected one. He initially didn't have a musical background, but fate, and a keen interest in the burgeoning electronic music scene of the late 1970s, set him on a path that would redefine pop music. In 1977, in Sheffield, England, Oakey, along with Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh, formed The Human League. This wasn't just a band; it was an art collective, a theatre group, dedicated to creating detached electronic music using only synthesizers. They were at the vanguard of a movement, experimenting with soundscapes and embracing the potential of emerging technology.
Martyn Ware, after initially collaborating with Ian Craig Marsh, decided to invite an old school friend, Philip Oakey, to join the band. At the time, Oakey was working as a hospital porter and was known for his distinctive style of dress within the Sheffield social scene. According to some accounts, the invitation was delivered via a note stuck to his door, a far cry from the conventional methods of band recruitment. Oakey, despite never having been in a band before, accepted the offer, setting in motion a chain of events that would forever change the landscape of pop music. Soon after, they decided to name themselves The Human League.
The Human League's first single, "Boiled," was released in 1978, showcasing their early experimental sound. It took four years for the single to chart in the UK, a delay that speaks to the band's initial divergence from mainstream tastes. The group's music, though unconventional, eventually resonated with a global audience. The band, however, persevered, and they'd soon make their mark on the world.
The Human League wasn't just about the music, it was about the aesthetic. Oakey's image, his unique style, and his charismatic stage presence were integral to the band's identity. In 1980, Joanne Catherall and Susan Ann Sulley, were discovered in Sheffield's Crazy Daisy nightclub by Philip Oakey, who were then added to the group, adding a new dimension to the band's visual appeal and music. The integration of these two young women brought a fresh perspective and a unique vocal blend that further cemented The Human League's success.
The 1980s were The Human League's defining decade. Their innovative use of synthesizers, combined with Oakey's distinct vocal style and the band's captivating image, propelled them to the forefront of the synth-pop movement. Albums such as "Dare" (1981) and singles like "Don't You Want Me" became global hits, solidifying their place in music history.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Philip Oakey |
| Date of Birth | October 2, 1955 |
| Place of Birth | Hinckley, Leicestershire, England |
| Occupation | Singer, Songwriter, Record Producer |
| Known For | Lead Singer of The Human League |
| Genres | Synth-pop, Electronic, New Wave |
| Notable Songs (with The Human League) | "Don't You Want Me," "Human," "Love Action (I Believe in Love)" |
| Collaborations | Giorgio Moroder |
| Solo Career | Extensive solo work, including the album "Philip Oakey & Giorgio Moroder" |
| Age | 69 (as of October 2, 2024) |
| Reference | AllMusic |
The collaboration with the Italian record producer Giorgio Moroder proved to be a significant milestone in Oakey's career. The joint album "Philip Oakey & Giorgio Moroder," released in 1985, showcased their combined talents and produced the hit single "Together in Electric Dreams." This song, which was featured in the soundtrack of the film "Electric Dreams" (1984), became a major success, further broadening Oakey's reach and solidifying his reputation as a versatile artist.
Oakey's work with Moroder exemplifies his willingness to explore different musical territories. Oakey has enjoyed an extensive solo music career and collaborated with many other artists and producers.
For the Human League, the 1980s were their defining decade, with hits like "Don't You Want Me," "Human," and "Love Action (I Believe in Love)" topping charts worldwide. Oakey's distinctive vocal style, the band's captivating image, and their innovative use of synthesizers propelled them to the forefront of the synth-pop movement. The song "Together in Electric Dreams", released in 1984, later formed part of the collaborative album. It was written by Oakey and Moroder and recorded for the original soundtrack of the film "Electric Dreams."
While The Human League undeniably defined the 1980s, the band has moved way beyond that, adding key members like Joanne Catherall and Susan Ann Sulley to founder Philip Oakey, these additions brought a new vocal texture and stage presence to the group, contributing to their ongoing success. Oakey puts their longevity down to a mixture of luck and determination, a testament to the enduring power of their music and the band's resilience in the face of changing musical trends.
Oakey's influence extends far beyond his musical contributions. His distinctive style, from his dramatic hairstyles to his penchant for avant-garde fashion, has made him a style icon. His impact on the world of music is undeniable, Oakey's influence can be seen in the work of countless artists. For many, The Human League were the definitive pop band of the '80s.
The success of "Together in Electric Dreams" with Giorgio Moroder provided further evidence of Oakey's ability to collaborate and adapt. This collaboration, released in 1985, showcasing the fusion of Oakey's vocals with Moroder's production expertise, proving that Oakey could navigate and thrive in diverse musical landscapes. In a candid moment, when discussing the less glamorous side of the music industry, he shoots a look that simply says, "I'm Philip fucking Oakey, mate".
The Human League's journey, from their experimental beginnings in Sheffield to global superstardom, is a story of innovation, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of artistic vision. Philip Oakey remains at the heart of it all, a figure who continues to inspire and create. Oakey still waits for the day the phone stops ringing. His legacy is secure, his music is still enjoyed by millions.
