Tony Hadley Goes Fabulous: "My Romantic Revolution"

Bertinoro (Forlì), 27 August 2025 – 45 years have passed since a group of young Englishmen in love with the music and image of David Bowie gave birth to the 'new romantic' in the turbulent and creative London just emerging from the punk revolution. Elegance and enveloping melodies replaced safety pins and distorted electricity. A scene that had a central reference in Tony Hadley 's Spandau Ballet ( photo ). The singer celebrates his long career, first with the group and then as a soloist, on Sunday in Bertinoro (Giardini della Rocca, at 9:30 pm) together with his Fabulous TH Band, with a show as part of Entroterre Festival .

When you debuted with Spandau Ballet in the 1980s, you were called 'new romantic'. What did this definition mean to you?

“Back then, we didn't think about labels. 'New Romantic' meant elegance and theatricality, the opposite of punk, which was rage and destruction. We wanted style and sophistication, and we were inspired by the looks we saw in clubs, especially the London Blitz.”

Where did the attention you paid to your music, to its sophisticated look, unlike the punk that preceded you, come from?

"We were inspired by glamour, movies, and art deco. It was a reverse rebellion: not rags but well-groomed clothes, not screams but great melodies. Steve Strange, David Bowie, and Roxy Music were our references."

Why did you choose such a provocative name for the group?

"We were looking for something strong, evocative. 'Spandau Ballet' had power and contradiction, elements that are part of art itself."

Is there a thread that connects your early days with what you play now?

"Yes, and it's always the same passion for music, for melody. Whether it's pop, swing, or a ballad, what I look for has to be disruptive, it has to create an immediate connection with the audience."

What was the atmosphere like in London back then, and what is the most important difference from today?

In the 1980s, London was pure energy: clubs, fashion, new bands everywhere. Today, it's different, more global and digital, less tribal. But it's still a creative hub, one of the strongest in the world.

How did you discover swing, which is now so present in your repertoire?

“It was thanks to my parents, who raised me on the music of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Jack Jones… that vocal elegance that captures your soul. Bringing him to a concert is an honor for me, and it comes very naturally to me. But with my TH band, lifelong friends, I certainly haven't forgotten my true nature, rock.”

Can music have a social value or is it just entertainment?

"It's both. Music makes us dance, consoles us, unites us, and makes us reflect. It's the soundtrack to life, with great social value, and therefore enormous responsibility."

You have strong ties to Italy. Who do you particularly admire in Italian music?

I love Italy! Italian music has unique melodies that touch the heart. I've had the privilege of collaborating with so many Italian artists, from Caparezza to Elio e le Storie Tese, but I also know Vasco, Pausini, Bocelli... and when I sing here I feel the incredible warmth of an audience that has always been there for me, even during the most difficult moments of my career. I will be forever grateful to them.