The Bangles

            One of the more popular all girl groups of the 80s, The Bangles had three major hits during the decade and several minor hits. The endless touring, among other factors, caused The Bangles to break up in 1989. The time off proved beneficial and the group reunited in the late 90s.

Formation to 1989 breakup:

            Formed in 1981 in L.A., The Bangles would release their first EP the following year. They would release their first full-length album, All Over the Place, in 1983. Even these early recordings contained the trademark harmonics of The Bangles. The girls rotate who sings lead so that each girl is featured on at least a couple of songs on each album. Their next album, Different Light, would elevate The Bangles to star status led by their big hits “Manic Monday” and “Walk Like an Egyptian”. They followed this up with Everything, which contained their other big hit, “Eternal Flame”. Unfortunately, the constant touring and just being in a band 24/7 caused the group to split in 1989 on less than favorable terms. Each of the girls went their separate ways to work with other groups, release their own material and concentrate on their family lives.

Reunion:

            Discussions amongst the members of The Bangles about getting back together began in the late 90s. Vicki Peterson (guitar, singer) had some reservations, insisting the band put out new material and weren’t just part of some 80s reunion tour. All agreed and in 1999, The Bangles recorded “Get the Girl” for the Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me soundtrack. They began touring again, primarily in Southern California. In 2003, The Bangles released their first new studio album in 15 years with Doll revolution. In 2004, Michael decided to retire from The Bangles, but the group continues to tour using a variety of guest bass players.

Discography:

Bangles EP (1982)
All Over The Place (1983)
Different Light (1985)
Everything (1988)
The Bangles - Greatest Hits (1990)
September Gurls (1995)
Super Hits (1998)
Eternal Flame: The Best of the Bangles (2001)
Doll Revolution (2003)
Holiday in Bangleonia (2004)