Simple Minds Tickets

Simple Minds: An Overview of the Past and Present

Simple Minds has been a mainstay in the music industry for over 40 years. From their beginnings in the late 70s, they have gone on to become one of the world's most successful and influential bands. With their striking blend of alternative-pop and stadium-sized rock, the band has achieved a wide audience and critical acclaim – as well as celebrating an impressive 40th anniversary in 2021.

Origin

The origins of Simple Minds can be found in the post-punk scene of Glasgow in the late 1970s. Led by musicians Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill, they were quickly tipped to make waves in the UK music scene by combining their punk roots with elements of art-rock, new-wave and synth-pop. By the early 80s, Simple Minds were signed to major label Virgin Records and had released their platinum-selling debut album, 'Life in a Day'.

Band History

Over the course of their career, Simple Minds have released a total of 17 studio albums, starting with their debut and going through to their most recent, 'Walk Between Worlds', in 2018. Since their early successes with 'Love Song' and 'Don't You (Forget About Me)', the band have developed a reputation for expansive and creative music which has won them numerous awards.

Members Chronology

Throughout their many years of activity, Simple Minds have seen many lineup changes. Currently, the band is made up of founding members Jim Kerr (vocals and guitar) and Charlie Burchill (guitar and keyboards), and veterans Mel Gaynor (drums), Ged Grimes (bass) and Sarah Brown (vocals and keyboards). Past members have included Derek Forbes (bass), Brian McNeill (keyboards) and Mike Ogletree (drums).

Similar Artists

Influenced by and influencing the likes of U2, OMD, Big Country and Depeche Mode, Simple Minds have been highly active and beloved in the music industry for more than 40 years. Notable other bands similar to Simple Minds include Joy Division, Echo and the Bunnymen, and Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band.

Famous Songs

Throughout their impressive discography, Simple Minds have released numerous classic tracks. These include 'Don't You (Forget About Me)', 'The American', 'Waterfront', 'Something About You' and 'Promised You a Miracle'. Their most recent single, 'Spaceface', has continued to demonstrate their unique ability to combine classic and modern sounds.

Simple Minds have long been renowned as one of the most iconic and influential bands of their era, continuing to offer a wide and distinctive catalogue of music to new generations of fans. With multiple awards and an imminent 40th anniversary to celebrate, there are sure to be plenty more exciting sounds from them yet to discover.