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Band Timeline

1977

Formation of Simple Minds

Simple Minds was formed in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1977 initially under the name Johnny & The Self-Abusers by Alan Cairnduff. Shortly after formation, Jim Kerr (lead vocals) and Charlie Burchill (lead guitarist) joined, who would become the core members of the band. The group quickly transitioned into performing under the name Simple Minds in January 1978, establishing the foundation for their future musical journey.
1979

Debut Album Release: Life in a Day

In 1979, Simple Minds released their debut album 'Life in a Day.' This album achieved moderate commercial success, marking the band's initial step into the music industry. Though the album didn't reach high commercial peaks, it helped the band gain early exposure and build a fan base. Subsequent releases, including 'Real to Real Cacophony' (1979) and 'Empires and Dance' (1980), saw limited success but showcased their evolving sound.
1981

Breakthrough with Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call

After signing with Virgin Records, Simple Minds released their fourth album, 'Sons and Fascination/Sister Feelings Call' in 1981. This double album became their most successful studio work up to that point. The album's release marked a key turning point, elevating their profile in the music scene and setting the stage for international recognition. The album melded post-punk and new wave influences, highlighting the band's artistic growth.
1982

International Success with New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84)

'New Gold Dream (81/82/83/84),' released in 1982, was a breakthrough album for Simple Minds globally. The album included hit singles such as 'Promised You a Miracle' and 'Glittering Prize,' both achieving considerable international success. It broke into the top ten album charts in markets like New Zealand, Australia, Sweden, and the UK and gained a substantial presence in the US Billboard 200. The synth-driven, melodic sound of this album firmly established Simple Minds in the new wave and rock scenes worldwide.
1984

Commercial Peak with Sparkle in the Rain

The sixth album, 'Sparkle in the Rain,' launched in 1984, continued the band's ascendancy. The lead single 'Waterfront' debuted at number one in the UK and New Zealand, underscoring the band's mainstream breakthrough. The album was later certified Platinum in the UK, indicating strong sales and widespread acclaim. This period consolidated Simple Minds as a dominant force in the 1980s rock and new wave landscape, showcasing a more anthemic rock style.
1985

Massive Success of Once Upon a Time and 'Don't You (Forget About Me)'

'Once Upon a Time,' the seventh album released in 1985, was a commercial high point for Simple Minds. Supported by hit singles like 'Alive and Kicking,' 'Sanctify Yourself,' and 'Ghostdancing,' the album reached number one in the UK and the Netherlands and charted highly in North America. Notably, during this time, the band released 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' for the film 'The Breakfast Club,' which became an international sensation and hit number one on the US Billboard Hot 100. This era marked the global peak of Simple Minds' popularity and mainstream success.
1989

Continued Success with Street Fighting Years and 'Belfast Child'

In 1989, Simple Minds released 'Street Fighting Years,' which included the single 'Belfast Child.' The single achieved number one positions on the charts in the UK, Netherlands, and Ireland. The album further cemented the band's reputation for politically and socially conscious music, reflecting on the Troubles in Northern Ireland. While the band remained commercially successful, this period also showcased a shift towards more mature and meaningful themes in their music.
1991-1995

Later 90s Albums and Commercial Decline

Throughout the early to mid-1990s, Simple Minds released the albums 'Real Life' (1991) and 'Good News from the Next World' (1995). Although these albums contained notable tracks, the band experienced a decline in commercial success compared to their 1980s peak. The changing musical landscape and evolving popular tastes contributed to this downturn. Despite this, the band continued producing music and performing, maintaining a loyal fan base.
2000s-2010s

Return to Chart Prominence and New Material

Simple Minds saw a resurgence in their career during the 2000s and 2010s with albums like 'Graffiti Soul' (2009), 'Walk Between Worlds' (2018), and 'Direction of the Heart' (2022). These works demonstrated the band's resilience and ability to adapt, blending their classic sound with contemporary influences. The band's lineup evolved over time, with Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill remaining as key songwriting members alongside new collaborators.
2014-2016

Recognition and Awards for Musical Contribution

Simple Minds received significant recognition for their contributions to music during the mid-2010s. In 2014, they were honored with the Q Inspiration Award, acknowledging their impact on the music industry. Two years later, in 2016, the band earned an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection from BASCA. These awards celebrated their enduring influence and celebrated their extensive catalog of hit songs and artistic legacy.
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Cherisse Osei

2017

Drums (drum set)

Sarah Brown

2017

Background vocals

Gordon Goudie

2017

Background vocals

Ged Grimes

2010

Bass guitar

Gordon Goudie

2017

Guitar

Jim Kerr

1977

Lead vocals

Sarah Brown

2017

Lead vocals

Charlie Burchill

1977

Guitar

Keyboard

Gordon Goudie

2017

Keyboard

Berenice Scott

2020

Keyboard

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Robin Clarke

1985
1986

Lead vocals

Additional

Mel Gaynor

1982
1992

Drums (drum set)

Derek Forbes

1978
1985

Bass guitar

Mike Ogletree

1982
1982

Drums (drum set)

Jim McDermott

1997
1997

Drums (drum set)

Tony Donald

1977
1978

Bass guitar

Duncan Barnwell

1978
1978

Guitar

Mel Gaynor

1997
1998

Drums (drum set)

Malcolm Foster

1989
1995

Bass guitar

Andy Gillespie

2002
2017

Keyboard

Michael MacNeil

1978
1989

Keyboard

Mark Kerr

2001
2001

Acoustic guitar

Brian McGee

1977
1981

Drums (drum set)

Mark Schulman

1994
1995

Drums (drum set)

John Giblin

1985
1988

Bass guitar

Derek Forbes

1996
1998

Bass guitar

Mark Kerr

1999
1999

Drums (drum set)

Mel Gaynor

2002
2018

Drums (drum set)

Catherine Anne Davies

2014
2018

Background vocals

Eddie Duffy

1998
2010

Bass

Kenny Hyslop

1981
1982

Membranophone

Mark Taylor

1991
1998

Keyboard

Catherine Anne Davies

2014
2018

Keyboard

Story of Simple Minds

Simple Minds: A Scottish Rock Legacy

Simple Minds, hailing from Glasgow, Scotland, burst onto the music scene in 1977. While known for their diverse and evolving sound, they achieved international fame with the iconic 1985 hit "Don't You (Forget About Me)," which topped the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States.

This anthemic track was only the tip of the iceberg for Simple Minds' commercial success. They delivered a string of hit singles, including "Promised You a Miracle," "Glittering Prize," "Someone Somewhere in Summertime," "Waterfront," "Alive and Kicking," "Sanctify Yourself," "Let There Be Love," "See the Lights," and the UK number one single "Belfast Child."

Their influence is undeniable. They've racked up 24 top 40 singles on the UK Singles Chart and 23 top 40 albums on the UK Albums Chart, including five number one albums: "Sparkle in the Rain," "Once Upon a Time," "Live in the City of Light," "Street Fighting Years," and "Glittering Prize 81/92."

Simple Minds' music has resonated worldwide, selling over 60 million albums. During the 1980s, they were crowned the most commercially successful Scottish band, leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene. Their influence extended beyond the UK, reaching chart success in the United States, Australia, Germany, Spain, Italy, and New Zealand.

Despite numerous personnel changes throughout their career, Simple Minds continue to record and tour, demonstrating their enduring power and commitment to their art.

Their contributions to the music industry haven't gone unnoticed. They received the Q Inspiration Award in 2014 for their significant impact. In 2016, they were honored with an Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Song Collection from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors (BASCA).

Further recognition includes nominations for MTV Video Music Awards for "Don't You (Forget About Me)," a Brit Award nomination for British Group, and an American Music Award for Favorite Pop/Rock Band/Duo/Group. "Belfast Child" was also nominated for Song of the Year at the Brit Awards in 1990.

The core of Simple Minds has remained consistent throughout their journey. Singer Jim Kerr and guitarist Charlie Burchill have been steadfast members, leading the band through its various musical transformations and enduring its remarkable success. Simple Minds stands as a testament to the enduring power of great songwriting and performance, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with music lovers around the world.

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