Black Lace
Black Lace: The Enigmatic Band Behind the Timeless 'Hokey Cokey'
In the vibrant tapestry of British pop music, Black Lace emerged as an eccentric and enigmatic force, their infectious melodies and flamboyant stage presence leaving an enduring mark on the hearts of audiences worldwide. Best known for their iconic single "The Hokey Cokey," the band's journey was one filled with triumphs, challenges, and controversies.
Formation and Early Success
Black Lace was formed in 1979 in the gritty industrial town of Bradford, England. The original lineup featured Alan Barton, Colin Gibb, and Ian Robinson, who shared a passion for pop music, slapstick comedy, and the transformative power of performance. Their early shows were characterized by a mix of original material and cheeky reinterpretations of popular songs, quickly gaining a loyal following in the local pub circuit.
The Hokey Cokey Phenomenon
In 1981, Black Lace released their breakthrough single "The Hokey Cokey." The song, a traditional children's dance tune, was transformed into an infectious pop anthem through the band's distinctive arrangements and energetic live performances. It topped the UK Singles Chart for four weeks and became a global hit, selling over 9 million copies worldwide.
International Acclaim and Controversies
The success of "The Hokey Cokey" catapulted Black Lace to international fame. They toured extensively throughout the 1980s and 1990s, captivating audiences with their flamboyant costumes and over-the-top stage antics. However, their popularity was not without its controversies. Their racy lyrics and suggestive dance moves drew criticism from some quarters, but the band remained unapologetic, claiming that their performances were all in good fun.
Lineup Changes and Challenges
Over the years, Black Lace experienced several lineup changes. Founding members Barton, Gibb, and Robinson left the band in the late 1980s, replaced by new recruits such as Dene Michael and Steve Scholey. Despite these changes, the band continued to release hit singles, including "Superman" and "Do the Conga." However, they also faced challenges, including declining album sales and a perceived lack of critical respect.
Later Career and Legacy
In the 21st century, Black Lace continued to perform and release new material, albeit with a reduced level of commercial success. They remained popular on the nostalgia circuit and gained a new generation of fans through their appearances on reality television shows and social media.
Discography
* The Hokey Cokey (1981)
* Superman (1984)
* Do the Conga (1985)
* Agadoo (1986)
* I Am the Music Man (1987)
* Party Time (1988)
* The Best of Black Lace (1990)
* Greatest Hits (1995)
* Back to the 80s (2006)
* The Ultimate Black Lace (2017)
Members
* Alan Barton (original member)
* Colin Gibb (original member)
* Ian Robinson (original member)
* Dene Michael
* Steve Scholey
* Rob Hopcroft
* Ian H. Brown
* Barry Prescott
* Dave Spencer
* Chris Turner
In the vibrant tapestry of British pop music, Black Lace emerged as an eccentric and enigmatic force, their infectious melodies and flamboyant stage presence leaving an enduring mark on the hearts of audiences worldwide. Best known for their iconic single "The Hokey Cokey," the band's journey was one filled with triumphs, challenges, and controversies.
Formation and Early Success
Black Lace was formed in 1979 in the gritty industrial town of Bradford, England. The original lineup featured Alan Barton, Colin Gibb, and Ian Robinson, who shared a passion for pop music, slapstick comedy, and the transformative power of performance. Their early shows were characterized by a mix of original material and cheeky reinterpretations of popular songs, quickly gaining a loyal following in the local pub circuit.
The Hokey Cokey Phenomenon
In 1981, Black Lace released their breakthrough single "The Hokey Cokey." The song, a traditional children's dance tune, was transformed into an infectious pop anthem through the band's distinctive arrangements and energetic live performances. It topped the UK Singles Chart for four weeks and became a global hit, selling over 9 million copies worldwide.
International Acclaim and Controversies
The success of "The Hokey Cokey" catapulted Black Lace to international fame. They toured extensively throughout the 1980s and 1990s, captivating audiences with their flamboyant costumes and over-the-top stage antics. However, their popularity was not without its controversies. Their racy lyrics and suggestive dance moves drew criticism from some quarters, but the band remained unapologetic, claiming that their performances were all in good fun.
Lineup Changes and Challenges
Over the years, Black Lace experienced several lineup changes. Founding members Barton, Gibb, and Robinson left the band in the late 1980s, replaced by new recruits such as Dene Michael and Steve Scholey. Despite these changes, the band continued to release hit singles, including "Superman" and "Do the Conga." However, they also faced challenges, including declining album sales and a perceived lack of critical respect.
Later Career and Legacy
In the 21st century, Black Lace continued to perform and release new material, albeit with a reduced level of commercial success. They remained popular on the nostalgia circuit and gained a new generation of fans through their appearances on reality television shows and social media.
Discography
* The Hokey Cokey (1981)
* Superman (1984)
* Do the Conga (1985)
* Agadoo (1986)
* I Am the Music Man (1987)
* Party Time (1988)
* The Best of Black Lace (1990)
* Greatest Hits (1995)
* Back to the 80s (2006)
* The Ultimate Black Lace (2017)
Members
* Alan Barton (original member)
* Colin Gibb (original member)
* Ian Robinson (original member)
* Dene Michael
* Steve Scholey
* Rob Hopcroft
* Ian H. Brown
* Barry Prescott
* Dave Spencer
* Chris Turner