Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield – 43 years after their iconic number one hit

Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit

As an ardent admirer of music history and the timeless magic of eighties pop, I was utterly captivated by the sight of The Human League performing at Sheffield, four decades after their global smash hit. It’s amazing to see how the passage of time has left its mark on these iconic artists but hasn’t dimmed their sparkle one bit!


43 years after our timeless ’80s pop anthems took the world by storm, I found myself standing in awe as we stepped onto the stage at Sheffield’s vibrant festival. To my surprise, the passage of time seemed to have transformed us into strangers to some eyes. But with each note we struck and every word we sang, it was clear that the spirit of our music remained undimmed by the years.

The trio known as The Human League, consisting of Phil Oakey, Joanne Catherall, and Susan Ann Sulley, appeared significantly different from their youthful counterparts, with Phil Oakey, aged 68, now sporting a bald look.

In 1981, the band responsible for the chart-topping single “Don’t You Want Me” demonstrated their ongoing talent by entertaining their audience with a live performance on stage.

Joanne and Susan, aged 61, drew attention in stylish, monochrome ensembles – each sporting sleek hairstyles and donning a pair of shades.

The group was initially formed in the 70s, comprising of Phillip, Martyn Ware and Ian Craig Marsh.

Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit

Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit

But after Martyn clashed with Phillip, he and Ian quit the band in 1980.

Later on, Philip encountered Joanne and Susan while socializing at the vibrant Crazy Daisy nightclub in Sheffield, inviting them to be part of The Human League.

The new line-up went on to win a Brit Award for British Breakthrough Act in 1982. 

Previously, Susan revealed her journey into the group to the Belfast Telegraph, sharing that Philip noticed them together at the club, yet had not listened to them perform.

It’s clear we were good friends, always there for each other. We both tried out for a part, and luckily, we landed the role together.

At the age of 17, Joanne was 18, and neither of us was allowed by our parents to form a band – an idea that they would not have even considered.

After some time, we managed to arrange a meeting between them and Philip. Once the encounter took place, they understood that he conducts himself in a highly professional manner; it turned out this was merely a business interaction, nothing strange or suspicious.

As a child of the ’80s, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia when I hear that The Human League will be performing again at Colchester Castle for their 80’s Calling! festival this weekend. Growing up in the era of big hair, neon colors, and synth-pop music, The Human League was one of my favorite bands. Their hits like “Don’t You Want Me” and “Love Action (I Believe in Love)” were staples on the radio, and I can still remember dancing to them at school discos and house parties. Now, all these years later, I have the chance to see them perform live once more. It’s going to be a magical trip down memory lane, and I can hardly wait!

Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit
Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit
Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit
Eighties pop legends look completely unrecognisable as they perform at a Tramlines Festival in Sheffield - 43 years after their iconic number one hit

After that, the three-piece band plans to play at Deva Fest, held at Cholmondeley Castle in Cheshire, during August, concluding their festival season’s performances.

As a longtime fan of The Human League, I am beyond excited for their upcoming Generations 2024 European tour! Growing up in the ’80s, their music was a staple of my teenage years and helped shape my love for synth-pop. I still remember dancing to “Don’t You Want Me” at school discos and singing along to “Love Action (I Believe in Love)” on my Walkman. Now, as an adult, I get the chance to see them live, and it’s a dream come true. Eight arena shows across Europe this year, culminating just before Christmas, will be a fantastic way to celebrate their music and the memories they’ve given me over the years. This tour is a testament to their enduring popularity and influence on the music industry, and I can’t wait to be part of it!

Last year’s announcement revealed that two exceptional opening acts will be accompanying them in cities such as Cardiff, Manchester, London, Glasgow, and Birmingham, similar to Cardiff, Manchester, London, Glasgow, and Birmingham.

At every performance, renowned music artist Sophie Ellis-Bextor and iconic ’80s bands The Human League and T’Pau will make special appearances.

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2024-08-01 15:48

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