By JACKIE MOE
Synth-pop and big hair may have saturated the 1980s music landscape, but there was one iconic group that left a lasting impression in both new wave rock and fashion – A Flock of Seagulls.
Emerging from the synth-heavy and stylish new Romantic movement, the English New Wavers soared to stardom with their groundbreaking hit single “I Ran (So Far Away)” in 1982. Their Grammy-winning debut album showcased a unique blend of angular guitar riffs and vibrant synths that defined the era.
The band continues to write, record, and tour – including making a stop at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts with Canadian pop group Men Without Hats on April 19.
Flock’s legendary frontman Mike Score shared favorite Flock milestones, music influences, inspiration behind the iconic hairstyle, and more in a recent interview with Backstage SoCal.
A Flock of Seagulls is known for its distinctive sound. How would you describe the band’s musical style and evolution over the years?
When we started we couldn’t really play, but we liked synths and guitars – something other bands didn’t seem to like at the time. We wanted to make atmospheres and meld them with pop and heavy music, and be spacey and modern all at the same time.
Because we were just in a rehearsal room, it didn’t really matter what we sounded like, so we messed up a lot and experimented a lot and the “seagulls “ sound just developed. Simple lines, simple melodies, a couple of beers, it seems to work.
What was the inspiration behind your massive hit “I Ran (So Far Away)”?
Seeing a 50’s style photo of two people running away from a UFO or flying saucer gave rise to the story in “I Ran.” We were spacey sounding, it fitted our image.
How do you think A Flock of Seagulls contributed to the musical landscape of the 1980s?
We were different – not trying to be “cool,” just following our own ideas in music. Our influencers were David Bowie, sci-fi movies, Alice Cooper. I think a lot of people saw that we were original, not copies of what had already been done a million times, so they took us to heart.
Can you share the story behind the iconic Flock of Seagulls hairstyle?
I was a hairdresser in Liverpool – we messed with our hair and our image all the time – colors, spikes, and so on. But I had a Ziggy Stardust type style all sticking up once before going on stage. I was looking at my hair in the mirror and one of the guys flattened it, but the sides stayed sticking up. Our manager said go on stage, so we went on stage. Me with flat hair but the sides standing up. People commented on it, so I took it to extremes.
What can fans expect from your live show at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts?
In the set these days, we play all or most of the hits, some brand new songs, and some deep dive cuts from the past.
What’s the most memorable fan encounter you’ve ever had?
So many, it’s hard to pick them out individually. Some 5 or 6-year-olds dressed with the hairdo is one. Some dressed in seagulls costumes is another. Too many really; also just some fans who just seem to appreciate us still playing and bringing back memories to them.
What’s the strangest rumor you’ve ever heard about yourself or the band?
That we are a one-hit wonder.
What moments in your career with A Flock of Seagulls stand out as highlights or milestones to you?
Playing the Hollywood Bowl, standing where the Beatles stood, Madison Square Garden, and touring with The Police.
Are there any new projects or collaborations on the horizon for A Flock of Seagulls?
Yes always, I’m always writing, recording, and touring. New singles and videos, etc. are on the horizon.
How do you feel about the enduring popularity of A Flock of Seagulls’ music, particularly among younger generations who may not have experienced the 1980s firsthand?
I find it truly fascinating. Something we did almost 50 yrs ago is still alive and kicking. We expected nothing really from our music, and we got almost everything. And it’s truly appreciated. We love playing live and we love our fans coming out to see us. It’s not a business to us. It’s still just a band.
A Flock of Seagulls
Theater: Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos
Date: 8 p.m. April 19, 2024
Ticket Prices: $79/$74/$64/$44
Ticket Information: cerritoscenter.com, or by calling (562) 916-8500.
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