Events
Tony Hadley
Islington, London, Englandpop · new wave · blue-eyed soul
Tony Hadley, born on 2 June 1960 in Islington, London, rose to global fame in the 1980s as the lead vocalist of new wave band Spandau Ballet. Hits such as "True" (1983) and "Gold" established him as one of the most distinctive voices of his generation. Following the band's first split in 1990, he embarked on a solo career, releasing albums including *State of Play* (EMI), a self-titled record (1997, PolyGram) and *True Ballads* (2003, Universal). In 2006 he released the long-awaited swing album *Passing Strangers* on his own Slipstream Records label. He also collaborated with electronic and house artists, including Tin Tin Out – their single "Dance With Me" (1997) reached No. 35 on the UK Singles Chart – and contributed lead vocals to Alan Parsons' album *The Time Machine* in 1999. Hadley rejoined Spandau Ballet in 2009 but departed again in 2017, since which he has toured extensively as a solo artist. He holds the MBE and is widely celebrated for his powerful, expressive baritone, equally at home in pop, blue-eyed soul and swing.
Tony Hadley live in Mallorca
Saturday, 1 August 2026
Frequently asked questions about Tony Hadley
What musical style is Tony Hadley known for?
Hadley blends new wave, blue-eyed soul and pop; his powerful baritone also lends itself to swing and ballads.
How did Tony Hadley become famous?
He rose to fame in the 1980s as lead singer of Spandau Ballet, notably with the singles "True" and "Gold" (both 1983), and has been active as a solo artist since 1990 with several studio albums.
Does Tony Hadley perform live?
Yes – since leaving Spandau Ballet permanently in 2017, he tours regularly as a solo artist and is available for private and corporate events.