The Psychedelic Furs

Country of Origin

Styles

Post-punk

Merchandise and Music (Referral Links)

Biography

The Psychedelic Furs are an English rock band formed in London in February 1977. Led by vocalist Richard Butler and his brother, bassist Tim Butler, the band emerged from the British post-punk scene. Their sound has evolved over time, beginning with a stark art rock style and later incorporating elements of new wave and hard rock.

The band's early career included several hits, most notably their song "Pretty in Pink," which gained further recognition when it was featured in the 1986 John Hughes film of the same name. The Psychedelic Furs went on hiatus in 1992 but reunited in 2000. They continue to perform and released Made of Rain in July 2020, their first studio album in nearly 30 years.

Early Years (1977–1980)
Initially rehearsing in Richard Butler's family home, the band experimented with several names, including RKO and Radio, before settling on The Psychedelic Furs. The original lineup included Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Duncan Kilburn (saxophone), Paul Wilson (drums), and Roger Morris (guitar). Their debut self-titled album, produced by Steve Lillywhite, was released in March 1980 and reached No. 18 on the UK Albums Chart.

Breakthrough and Success (1981–1991)
The band's second album, Talk Talk Talk (1981), marked their debut on the US Billboard 200 and featured the singles "Dumb Waiters" and the original version of "Pretty in Pink." Their 1982 album Forever Now, produced by Todd Rundgren, included the hit "Love My Way." By the mid-1980s, the band had gained a strong following, especially in the US, with songs like "The Ghost in You" and "Heaven."

In 1986, the Furs re-recorded "Pretty in Pink" for the film soundtrack, leading to increased commercial success. However, their next album, Midnight to Midnight (1987), while commercially successful, was criticized by Richard Butler for being overly commercial.

Hiatus and Reunion (2000–present)
After a break in the early 1990s, the Butler brothers reformed the Psychedelic Furs in 2000. They released a live album and continued touring, with a lineup that included new and returning members. In 2020, they released Made of Rain, which received positive reviews and marked their return to the studio after nearly three decades.

The band remains active, with their lineup currently including Richard Butler, Tim Butler, Zack Alford, Amanda Kramer, and Rich Good. Their music continues to feature in popular culture, including placements in TV shows like Stranger Things and films such as Call Me by Your Name.

The Psychedelic Furs were also credited in The Strokes' 2020 album The New Abnormal for their influence on the track "Eternal Summer." Saxophonist Mars Williams, who had been with the band on and off since the 1980s, passed away in November 2023.

Social Media and Links

Upcoming Concerts

Date	Time	Venue	City	Country
September 14, 2024	20:30	Razzmatazz 2	Barcelona	Spain
September 13, 2024	20:00	Sala But	Madrid	Spain
September 12, 2024	20:00	Kafe Antzokia	Bilbao	Spain