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ABC (band)
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ABC (band)
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ABC are an English pop band which formed in Sheffield, South Yorkshire in 1980, evolving from the earlier electronic band Vice Versa. They are best known as pioneers of the new pop and sophisti-pop movements, blending synth-pop with orchestral and jazz influences. The band achieved mainstream success with their debut studio album, The Lexicon of Love (1982), which featured the hit singles "Poison Arrow", "All of My Heart" and "The Look of Love" and reached number one on the UK Albums Chart.

Key Information

Fronted by Stockport-raised Martin Fry, the band's only constant member, the band's classic formation featured Fry as the lead vocalist, Mark White on guitar and keyboards, Stephen Singleton on saxophone, and David Palmer on drums.[5] ABC achieved ten UK and five US top 40 hit singles from 1981 to 1990. Their debut studio album, The Lexicon of Love (1982), was a UK number one. Their early-1980s success in the US saw them associated with the Second British Invasion.[6][7] ABC continued to release music throughout the 1980s, with notable studio albums such as Beauty Stab (1983) and How to Be a ... Zillionaire! (1985), the latter producing hits in both the UK and the US.

Although their commercial success declined after the 1980s, ABC have remained active through live performances, reissues, and occasional new material. In 2016, Fry released The Lexicon of Love II, a sequel to their debut studio album, which was well received by both critics and fans.

History

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Formation

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ABC have their roots in Vice Versa, a Sheffield electronic band formed in 1977 by synthesiser players Stephen Singleton and Mark White, with the latter on lead vocals. Their debut gig was as an opening act for the post-punk band Wire at the Outlook Club in Doncaster.[8][9] They founded their own label, Neutron Records, releasing the extended play (EP) Music 4. Martin Fry, who wrote the fanzine Modern Drugs, interviewed Vice Versa and shortly afterwards they asked him to join as synthesizer player.[10] Fry accepted and by late 1980 the band had evolved into ABC, with Fry becoming their lead vocalist.[10][11][12][13] The band's last day as Vice Versa was at the Futurama 2 Festival in Leeds in September 1980; from then on they performed as ABC, with Singleton playing saxophone and White on guitar and keyboards.[5] In the new year, Singleton and White were joined by Mark Lickley on bass guitar and David Robinson on drums.[14]

The Lexicon of Love, Beauty Stab and How to Be a ... Zillionaire!: 1981–1985

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The band's first single, "Tears Are Not Enough", made the UK top 20 in 1981.[5] Soon afterwards, Robinson left the band and was replaced by David Palmer; Lickley departed shortly thereafter and was not replaced.[13] In June 1982, the band released their debut studio album The Lexicon of Love, which reached number one on the UK Albums Chart.[13] Produced by Trevor Horn, it often featured in UK critics' lists of favourite albums: it ranked 42nd in The Observer Music Monthly's "Top 100 British Albums" (June 2004) and 40th in Q magazine's "100 Greatest British Albums" (June 2000). The band had three top 10 hits during 1982: the singles "Poison Arrow", "The Look of Love" (both of which were recorded whilst Mark Lickley was still a member of the band) and "All of My Heart".[5] Several high concept music videos were made, including the long-form spy pastiche Mantrap by Julien Temple.[5]

Following the culmination of the Lexicon of Love tour, Palmer joined the Yellow Magic Orchestra (YMO) for a series of tour dates; shortly thereafter Fry, White and Singleton decided to reconvene in order to commence work on their next studio album, leading Palmer to depart ABC in order to honour his commitments to Yellow Magic Orchestra's tour. The remaining members found it difficult to follow up on the success of their debut. Their second studio album, Beauty Stab, was released in November 1983, produced by Gary Langan who was the engineer on The Lexicon of Love.[13] It performed poorly in comparison to its predecessor, peaking at No. 12. The first single from the album, "That Was Then but This Is Now", briefly appeared in the UK top 20, followed by a top 40 showing for "S.O.S.".[5] The band eschewed remixes for the project and so the 12" single for "That Was Then but This Is Now" featured the disclaimer "This record is exactly the same as the 7" version. The choice is yours."

Singleton left the band shortly after the release of Beauty Stab as a result of Fry and White's reluctance to spend much time touring the band's material. Fry and White then enlisted the services of Fiona Russell Powell (under the name "Eden") and David Yarritu in the band's new line-up. Powell had been a member of the original line-up of the pre-ABC band, Vice Versa. According to an article published on 7 March 1997,[15] she 'chickened out' of Vice Versa's first live gig, and the job as frontman went to Fry. The Fry-White-Powell-Yarritu line-up recorded the studio album How to Be a ... Zillionaire!, released in October 1985. The band's chart success dwindled further in the UK with this album, but they did score their first US top 10 hit with "Be Near Me", which also made the UK top 30. The album also featured the singles "(How to Be A) Millionaire", "Vanity Kills" and "Ocean Blue". Inspiration for the album's cartoons of the band members was taken from a photo shoot by David Levine whose work featured on many of the sleeves for singles released from this album.[13] Keith LeBlanc later of Tackhead programmed much of the drum machines for the album.

Chart success continues with Alphabet City: 1986–1988

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After a hiatus, during which Fry was being treated for Hodgkin lymphoma (an uncommon cancer), he and White reconvened ABC as a duo, releasing their fourth studio album Alphabet City in 1987.[5] The album returned them to the UK Top 10 for the first time in five years, peaking at No. 7. It featured "When Smokey Sings", a tribute to the American R&B and soul singer Smokey Robinson, which narrowly missed the UK Top 10.[5] The song did give the duo their biggest hit in the US, where it peaked at number 5 in September.[16] The album also spawned "The Night You Murdered Love" (UK No. 31) and "King Without a Crown" (UK No. 44) as singles.[13]

Up, Absolutely and Abracadabra: 1989–1992

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In 1989, the duo issued Up, their fifth and final PolyGram studio album. This time experimenting with house music, ABC scored a minor UK hit with the single "One Better World". A second single, "The Real Thing", and the album itself were less successful.[5] During this period, the duo worked on a couple of outside productions aimed at the house music scene. One was Paul Rutherford of Frankie Goes to Hollywood's debut and sole solo studio album, Oh World, and first single release; the other was for Lizzie Tear on the duo's own Neutron label.

In April 1990, the duo released a greatest hits compilation album, Absolutely. This covered all of ABC's studio albums up until 1990 and featured most of their singles. The compilation made the UK Top 10. A video package featuring their music videos was also released. One new song, "The Look of Love '90", was released to promote the package.[5]

The duo moved to the EMI label (and MCA in North America), where they recorded their sixth studio album Abracadabra (1991). Two singles, "Love Conquers All" and "Say It", narrowly missed the UK Top 40, though a remix of the latter by the Italian house music group Black Box appeared on the US Hot Dance Club Play at No. 3. This would be the final ABC studio album to feature founding member Mark White, who departed the duo in 1992.

Martin Fry also collaborated with the dance band M People in 1991 on their debut studio album, Northern Soul, recording vocals for the song "Life". However, when the album was re-released in 1992, and again in 1995, this track was omitted.

Skyscraping and comeback: 1997–2007

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After a six-year hiatus, ABC reformed as Fry solo, and released their seventh studio album Skyscraping in March 1997, a homage to several of Fry's musical heroes, including David Bowie, Roxy Music and the Sex Pistols. With Glenn Gregory of Heaven 17 and Keith Lowndes contributing to the sessions and songwriting, the album was commercially unsuccessful though a single, "Stranger Things", reached No. 57 in the UK. Two other singles, "Rolling Sevens" and "Skyscraping", did not chart.

In 1999, ABC released their first live album, The Lexicon of Live. The album covered most of their major hits. Although Fry was the only member left, he had a backing band and adorned the album cover in his famed gold lamé suit.

Look of Love: The Very Best of ABC was released in November 2001. Although essentially a reissue of the 1990 greatest hits compilation Absolutely, the album featured two new songs by Fry, "Peace and Tranquility" and "Blame". A companion DVD, along with a bonus disc of remixes, was also released.

In 2004, the VH1 show Bands Reunited attempted to get the band's classic line-up of Fry, White, Singleton and Palmer together for a reunion concert. Fry and Palmer appeared and played together (with help from Nick Beggs of Kajagoogoo) for the first time in over 20 years. Singleton and White opted not to participate.

Traffic: 2007–2015

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Following a tour of the United States in May and June 2006, Fry and Palmer, together with session keyboardist Chuck Kentis, put together a new ABC studio album, Traffic, released in April 2008. Gary Langan, who had worked on The Lexicon of Love and Beauty Stab, mixed and produced the album. The first single, "The Very First Time", debuted on BBC Radio 2 in January, was added to the station's "A" playlist for the week beginning 29 March and was released as a music download track on 1 April.

On 1 September 2007, ABC performed a set with other 1980s acts at Retrofest at Culzean Castle in Ayrshire, Scotland. This appearance included a rendition of "Addicted to Love", with Tony Hadley of Spandau Ballet and Peter Cox of Go West.

In mid 2008, ABC toured the US as part of the 2008 Regeneration Tour, which also featured the Human League, Belinda Carlisle of the Go-Go's, A Flock of Seagulls and Naked Eyes.

In April 2009, ABC performed The Lexicon of Love studio album live at the Royal Albert Hall, accompanied by the BBC Concert Orchestra. Anne Dudley of Art of Noise, who arranged and played keyboards on the original album, conducted the performance. A music review in the 13 April 2009 edition of The Independent newspaper, described the performance as a "glorious night that has placed one of the Eighties' most perfectly constructed albums back near the top of the pop pantheon".

In 2009, ABC toured the US as the headliner of the 2009 Regeneration Tour,[17] which also featured Terri Nunn of Berlin, Wang Chung and Cutting Crew.

In June, July and August 2011, ABC performed at a few locations around the UK as well as Las Vegas, Nevada. In October 2011, they performed dates in Melbourne, Australia.

On 19 July 2012, Fry was made an honorary Doctor of Music at the University of Sheffield for his contribution to music over more than 30 years. The following day his daughter Nancy received her degree from the Department of Sociological Studies from the same university.[18]

On 1 March 2013, ABC appeared in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the '80s Rewind' concert with Rick Astley, Heaven 17, Howard Jones and T'Pau.

In June 2014, it was revealed that a dozen early master tapes had been discovered of rare remixes and unheard songs from ABC's first three studio albums. These were returned to Martin Fry who was delighted, but unsure as to what he would do with them. According to Classic Pop, the rediscovered songs include "a 'That's It Folks!' mix of 'So Hip It Hurts' from Zillionaire. From Beauty Stab, reams of early studio takes have come to light including one song, 'You and Me', that never made the final album. From The Lexicon of Love era, the band's own, pre-Trevor Horn demos of 'All of My Heart' have come to light, along with a reel entitled '4 Ever 2 Gether – The Outtake, Starring Martin Fry as Ken Dodd'".[19]

The Lexicon of Love II: 2016–2021

[edit]
ABC performing live
ABC performing live

In October 2015, Fry announced that he was working on a new ABC studio album. "It's going to be a take on The Lexicon of Love, but all these years on. I'm a man in my fifties now with a wealth of experience. It's about how you grow older but you make the same mistakes over and over and over again."[20]

In November 2015, a compilation album entitled 80s Recovered was released, featuring many artists from the 1980s. ABC contributed a cover version of Radiohead's "High and Dry", with a regular version and a remix.[21]

In January 2016, Fry said the new ABC studio album would be entitled The Lexicon of a Lost Ideal and released in the UK in May 2016. Featuring tracks penned by Fry, with contributions by Rob Fusari, Marcus Vere of Living in a Box, Matt Rowe and Anne Dudley, the album features orchestration arranged by Anne Dudley, who worked in a similar capacity on The Lexicon of Love.[22] In April 2016, the release of the new album, now entitled The Lexicon of Love II, was announced with lead single "Viva Love" made available via digital platforms. It was A playlisted by BBC Radio 2.[23] The release of "Viva Love" was accompanied by a video directed by Julien Temple, who had also worked with the band on the Mantrap and "Poison Arrow" videos, which the new video references. The album was released in the UK and the US on 27 May 2016 and entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 5, the first time ABC had reached the Top 5 since the original Lexicon of Love album in 1982.[24] "The Flames Of Desire" and "Ten Below Zero" were released as follow-up singles. Both were added to the BBC Radio 2 playlist.

ABC also contributed a new song called "Living Inside My Heart" to Fly: Songs Inspired by the Film Eddie the Eagle, the soundtrack of which was released on 18 March 2016 on CD and digitally.[25]

ABC released their first Christmas song, entitled "A Christmas We Deserve", on 2 December 2016 as part of a four-track EP. The other three songs are acoustic versions of "The Love Inside the Love, "Viva Love" and "The Look of Love".

In March 2017, just before the band's Royal Albert Hall orchestra show on April 6 (featuring songs from The Lexicon of Love II, greatest hits and the complete Lexicon of Love album) the band announced the November 2017 XYZ tour. During the tour two new songs were performed: "Look Good Tonite" and "The Life and Times of a Troubadour".

On 22 October 2020, the compilation album The Essential ABC – featuring songs and remixes from the first five albums – entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 62.[26]

The Lexicon of Love 40th Anniversary: 2022–present

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On 9 June 2022, ABC released the vinyl-only single "Look Good Tonite"/"Sixty Seconds Later" in the UK.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the release of The Lexicon of Love, the band performed at Sheffield City Hall on 21 June 2022. The show was recorded for future release on CD and DVD.

Martin Fry performing in 2023

In January 2023, a US show was announced: the band played at the Cruel World Festival in Pasadena, California on 20 May 2023.[27]

In March 2023, ABC announced the 19 May release of the live double CD The Lexicon of Love 40th Anniversary Live at Sheffield City Hall. It was released digitally and as a limited edition live album on 19 May 2023.[28] The album was recorded in 2022 at a show in ABC's hometown of Sheffield, to mark the 40th anniversary of the seminal studio album, The Lexicon Of Love. ABC were joined by the original orchestral team of Southbank Sinfonia and longtime collaborator and arranger Anne Dudley, who conducted on the evening of the recording. The album features the whole of the original Lexicon of Love album, plus hits including "When Smokey Sings", "Be Near Me", "Viva Love", "(How To Be A) Millionaire" and "The Flames Of Desire".

On 4 August 2023, The Lexicon of Love was reissued (belatedly) for its 40th anniversary with special vinyl editions and an SDE-exclusive Blu-ray audio, No. 12 in the ongoing SDE Surround Series. Renowned musician Steven Wilson of Porcupine Tree remixed the classic album in Dolby Atmos, 5.1 and stereo for this special reissue, which was also made available on streaming platforms.[29] The album (re)entered the UK Albums Chart at No. 48.

In 2024 and 2025, ABC went on tour in North America alongside fellow new wave musician Howard Jones.[30][31] In the ABC half of each show, Fry performed many of the band's hit songs, mostly from The Lexicon of Love,[32] as well as other hits such as "That Was Then but This Is Now", "Viva Love", and "King Without a Crown".[33]

Band members

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Line-ups

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1980–1981 1981 1981–1982 1982–1983
(Classic Lineup)
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Stephen Singleton – alto and tenor saxophones
  • Mark White – guitars, keyboards, programming
  • Mark Lickley – bass guitar
  • David Robinson – drums, percussion
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Stephen Singleton – alto and tenor saxophones
  • Mark White – guitars, keyboards, programming
  • Mark Lickley – bass guitar
  • David Palmer – drums, percussion
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Stephen Singleton – alto and tenor saxophones
  • Mark White – guitars, keyboards, programming
  • David Palmer – drums, percussion
1983–1984 1984–1985 1985–1991 1991–1997
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Stephen Singleton – alto and tenor saxophones
  • Mark White – guitars, keyboards, programming
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Mark White – guitars, keyboards, programming
  • Martin Fry – vocals
1997–2004 2004–2009 2009–present
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • Martin Fry – vocals
  • David Palmer – drums, percussion
  • Martin Fry – vocals

Timeline

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Discography

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Main article: ABC discography

[34]

Studio albums

Dance chart success

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ABC had three number-one hits on the US Dance Club Songs:

See also

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References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

ABC (band)

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
ABC are an English band formed in in 1980, evolving from the electronic group Vice Versa and fronted by charismatic lead vocalist . Pioneers of movement, they blended , , and new wave influences with sharp songwriting and a glamorous aesthetic, achieving international success in the early 1980s through their debut album (1982), produced by , which featured UK top-ten singles "Poison Arrow" and "The Look of Love," along with "." The band's classic lineup included Fry alongside guitarist/keyboardist Mark White and saxophonist , with additional members like drummer David Palmer contributing to their polished sound on subsequent releases such as (1983) and How to Be a... Zillionaire! (1985), which yielded hits including "" and "(How to Be a) Millionaire." ABC's evolution in the late 1980s saw them experiment with house and soul elements on albums like Alphabet City (1987), home to the top-20 single "When Smokey Sings," before a period of lineup changes and commercial challenges in the 1990s and 2000s, including Fry's battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 1985, which briefly halted their momentum. Despite shifts, they maintained a , releasing further albums such as The Lexicon of Love II (2016), with no new studio album since then, alongside compilations and live releases, and earning recognition for their influence on 1980s pop. As of 2025, ABC remain active under Fry's leadership, embarking on an orchestral tour performing in full across the and co-headlining a North American tour with Howard Jones, underscoring their enduring legacy in new wave and .

History

Formation (1980–1981)

ABC originated in , , evolving from the electronic band Vice Versa, which was formed in 1978 by Mark White on guitar and keyboards and on and keyboards, along with initial members David Sydenham and Graham Kelly. In late 1979, local music journalist interviewed Vice Versa for his Modern Drugs and attended one of their rehearsals, leading White and Singleton to invite him to join as a vocalist and additional player. Fry accepted, and by early 1980, the group had reoriented toward a more pop-oriented sound influenced by new wave and , prompting a name change to ABC to reflect their alphabetic branding and fresh identity. The initial ABC lineup consisted of Fry on lead vocals, on guitar and keyboards, and Singleton on saxophone and keyboards, with the band emphasizing stylish visuals and sophisticated songwriting from the outset. In 1980, they established their independent label, Neutron Records, to maintain creative control, though Vice Versa had already issued the Music 4 EP on the same imprint in 1979. ABC's debut performance occurred in 1981 as the support act for Wire at Sheffield's Outlook Club, marking their transition to live shows with a focus on image and performance. To expand the lineup for recordings, ABC recruited bassist Mark Lickley and keyboardist David Palmer in 1981. Their first single, "Tears Are Not Enough," was released on 16 October 1981 via Neutron Records, produced by Steve Brown and featuring a blend of rhythms and synth elements that peaked at number 19 on the UK Singles Chart. Later that year, in the autumn, ABC signed a distribution deal with Phonogram Records, allowing Neutron to handle their releases while gaining wider reach, setting the stage for their breakthrough album.

The Lexicon of Love era (1982)

ABC's debut album, , marked the band's breakthrough in 1982, establishing them as a leading act in the new wave and scenes. Formed from the remnants of the experimental group Vice Versa, ABC—comprising vocalist , guitarist Mark White, saxophonist , bassist Mark Lickley, and drummer Palmer—shifted toward a more polished, romantic sound. The album was recorded at Sarm East Studios in with producer , whose innovative approach blended futuristic synthesizers, orchestral arrangements, and retro soul influences, creating a cinematic quality that defined the era's opulent pop aesthetic. Horn's production, which included contributions from arranger on strings and brass, transformed ABC's demos into a cohesive concept album narrating the highs and lows of love through interconnected songs. The album's creation stemmed from ABC's desire for a grand, theatrical presentation, inspired by 1960s British pop orchestrations from producers like and the dramatic scope of films. Martin Fry recalled approaching Horn after being impressed by his work on Dollar's "Hand-Held in Black and White," seeking a "panoramic, widescreen sound" to elevate their music beyond standard new wave fare. Recording sessions were intensive, with Horn meticulously layering sounds—using early digital sampling and live instrumentation—to achieve a lush, heartbreak-infused polish. The band envisioned the project as a "pop opera," complete with a narrative arc of romance's , from to despair. Released on 21 June 1982 by Neutron Records (later Mercury in the ), the LP was packaged with a short film directed by , featuring Fry in a stylized love story with a ballerina, underscoring the album's visual and sonic ambition. Commercially, propelled ABC to stardom, debuting at number one on the on 3 July 1982 and holding the position for four weeks; it was certified platinum by the BPI for sales exceeding 300,000 copies in the . In the , it peaked at number 24 on the , introducing the band to American audiences amid the Second British Invasion. The singles rollout fueled this success: "" (re-recorded for the album) reached number 19 in late 1981, setting the stage; "Poison Arrow" hit number 6 and number 23 in early 1982; "The Look of Love (Part One)" became their signature hit, charting at number 4 and number 18, also topping the chart; and "" closed the campaign at number 5. These tracks exemplified the album's mix of witty lyrics, soaring melodies, and extravagant production, with "The Look of Love" exemplifying Fry's charismatic over dramatic strings and pulsing synths. The era's momentum extended to live performances, as ABC embarked on a high-profile UK and European tour in late 1982, followed by their first major trek in 1983, supported by the album's hits. Their stage show emphasized glamour, with Fry's tailored suits designed by and choreographed elements mirroring the album's cinematic flair, drawing comparisons to acts like . Media appearances on shows like and The Tube amplified their sophisticated image, positioning ABC as icons of style and romance. The album's critical acclaim—praised for its emotional depth and sonic innovation—cemented its status as a defining pop record, influencing subsequent productions by Horn and launching ABC's international career.

Early albums and shifting sound (1983–1985)

Following the success of their debut album , ABC released their second studio album, , on November 14, 1983, via and . The record represented a deliberate shift away from the sophisticated, Trevor Horn-produced orchestral of their first effort, opting instead for a rawer, guitar-oriented self-produced by . This evolution incorporated edges, with Martin Fry's lyrics addressing political discontent and social critique alongside romantic themes, as seen in tracks like "The Look of Love (Part Four)" and "If I Ever Thought You'd Be Lonely". The album's title track and "That Was Then But This Is Now" exemplified this harder-edged style, featuring prominent guitars from Mark White and a stripped-back arrangement that contrasted the lush strings and electronic flourishes of their earlier work. Beauty Stab debuted at number 12 on the UK Albums Chart and spent 13 weeks there, though it underperformed commercially compared to the chart-topping debut, partly due to the polarized sound. Critics noted the ambition in ABC's attempt to broaden their palette beyond new romantic tropes, but many found the transition awkward, lacking the melodic polish and emotional resonance that defined The Lexicon of Love. AllMusic's Alex Henderson described it as a "major disappointment," praising the competence of songs like "S.O.S." but criticizing the uninspired rock leanings and absence of innovation. The lead single, "That Was Then But This Is Now," reached number 18 on the UK Singles Chart, providing a minor hit, while follow-up "S.O.S." reached number 15, underscoring the album's mixed reception. Despite the backlash, Fry later reflected on it as an intentional "protest album" reacting to fame's pressures. By 1984, saxophonist departed the group, reducing ABC to a core duo of Fry and , who sought to recapture their electronic roots for their third album, How to Be a... Zillionaire!, released on October 4, 1985, again via and Mercury. The band augmented their lineup with non-touring members David Palmer on keyboards and Eddie McWilliams on percussion, selected more for visual impact in promotional imagery than musical contribution, aligning with a cartoonish, ironic aesthetic that satirized materialism. Produced by Fry, , and (formerly of Yes and ), the album returned to danceable textures but with a sharper, funk-infused edge and processed vocals, evident in standout tracks like "" and "Vanity Kills". This shift blended the debut's electronic sophistication with contemporary club influences, moving away from 's rock experiments toward a more playful, media-savvy sound. How to Be a... Zillionaire! peaked at number 28 on the and number 30 on the , marking ABC's first significant American breakthrough. The album's singles fared better, with "Be Near Me" climbing to number 26 in the UK and number 28 on the , its sleek production and Fry's soulful delivery evoking a modern twist on . "(How to Be a) Millionaire" reached number 49 in the UK, while "Vanity Kills" hit number 70, highlighting the record's commercial momentum despite critical views that it prioritized slickness over depth. AllMusic's commended the "danceable" return to electronics but noted a lack of the debut's emotional core, positioning the album as a transitional effort in ABC's evolving style. This period solidified the band's adaptability, bridging their new wave origins with mid-1980s pop trends amid lineup flux.

Alphabet City and commercial peak (1986–1988)

Following the moderate success of their 1985 album How to Be a Zillionaire!, which peaked at No. 28 on the but failed to match earlier triumphs, ABC entered a period of uncertainty in 1986. Lead singer had been diagnosed with Hodgkin's disease in late 1985, undergoing intensive treatments that he kept private from the public and even much of the music industry to avoid derailing the band's momentum. Despite his health struggles, Fry, alongside guitarist Mark White—the only remaining original members after earlier lineup changes—began work on new material, marking a deliberate shift back toward the lush, orchestral of their debut era rather than the funkier, sample-heavy sound of recent releases. The resulting album, Alphabet City, was recorded over nine months in studios in and New York, co-produced by the duo with bassist , whose expertise lent a polished, groove-oriented sheen infused with and soul influences. Released on 3 August 1987 in the UK via Neutron Records (and later internationally by Mercury), the record featured Fry's baritone vocals over string arrangements by and tracks that evoked urban romance and nostalgia, such as the opener "Avenue A" and the tribute to in the title track. Fry's recovery during production allowed the band to complete the project, with Edwards' involvement providing a fresh rhythmic foundation that balanced ABC's pop sensibilities with disco-funk elements. Alphabet City achieved ABC's strongest UK chart performance since their 1982 debut, peaking at No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart and spending 10 weeks in the Top 75, while reaching No. 48 on the US Billboard 200. The lead single, "When Smokey Sings," released in May 1987, became the album's standout hit, climbing to No. 11 in the UK (10 weeks on chart) and marking the band's highest US peak at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 (19 weeks), alongside No. 1 on the Dance Club Songs chart and No. 2 on Adult Contemporary. Follow-up "The Night You Murdered Love," issued in September 1987, reached No. 31 in the UK (8 weeks) and No. 3 on the US Dance Club Songs chart, underscoring a commercial resurgence particularly in America, where the singles' radio play and club traction revitalized interest. Later singles like "King Without a Crown" (No. 45 UK) and "One Better World" had modest impact, but the album's overall success—bolstered by promotional tours once Fry regained strength—solidified 1987–1988 as ABC's commercial peak of the decade, with over 500,000 units sold worldwide by 1988.

Transition period: Up, Absolutely, and Abracadabra (1989–1992)

Following the relative commercial disappointment of Alphabet City, ABC continued as a duo comprising vocalist Martin Fry and guitarist Mark White, releasing their fifth studio album Up on 30 October 1989 through Mercury Records, their final release with the PolyGram label. The record marked a stylistic pivot toward house music influences, blending electronic beats and dance rhythms with the band's signature pop sensibilities in an effort to align with late-1980s club trends. Produced by Fry and White with contributions from house producer Mark Saunders, tracks like "The Real Thing" and "One Better World" featured pulsating basslines and synth hooks aimed at dancefloors, though critics noted the shift felt forced compared to ABC's earlier orchestral flair. Up underperformed commercially, becoming the band's first album to miss the top 40 by peaking at No. 58 on the , while reaching only No. 185 on the 200. The lead single "The Real Thing" fared modestly at No. 68 on the UK Singles Chart, underscoring ABC's waning mainstream momentum amid a crowded landscape dominated by emerging acts like and . Despite the experiment yielding a 6.3/10 rating from for its energetic but uneven production, the album highlighted the duo's adaptability, even if it failed to recapture their mid-1980s commercial peak. In 1990, ABC capitalized on nostalgia with Absolutely, a greatest hits compilation issued by Mercury that collected 14 tracks spanning their 1982–1987 heyday, including remixed versions of staples like "The Look of Love" and "Poison Arrow." The collection peaked at No. 7 on the , reaffirming the enduring appeal of ABC's early output and providing a financial bridge during their creative transition. praised it as a strong retrospective (8/10 rating), though noted the four new remixes added little value beyond superficial club appeal. Shifting to MCA Records, ABC delivered Abracadabra on 12 August 1991, their sixth studio album, which further explored house and acid jazz elements in a bid for modernity, featuring contributions from producer Martin Phillips and guests like jazz saxophonist . Tracks such as "Love Conquers All" and "Say It" incorporated trip-hop precursors like downtempo grooves and remixes by Italian house act , but the effort was critiqued for diluting ABC's melodic strengths. AllMusic's called it a "disheartening latter-day album," rating it 6.3/10 for its misguided attempts to chase trends without recapturing the band's pop elegance. The lead single "Love Conquers All" reached No. 47 on the UK Singles Chart, while "Say It" hit No. 42, signaling further decline. The period culminated in the band's effective dissolution in 1992, when founding member Mark White departed to pursue a career in alternative therapies, including healing, leaving Fry as the sole creative force and marking the end of ABC's original lineup era. This transition reflected broader challenges for 1980s acts navigating the rise of rave culture and , though it set the stage for Fry's later solo-driven revivals under the ABC banner.

Hiatus and reformation (1993–1996)

Following the release of their 1991 album , which marked a further shift toward house-influenced sounds but failed to recapture earlier commercial success, ABC entered a period of inactivity after guitarist and co-founder Mark White departed the band in 1992 to pursue interests outside music, including therapy. This departure effectively dissolved the core duo of White and frontman , leading to a four-year hiatus during which no new studio material was produced under the ABC name. The early years of the hiatus saw limited activity centered on archival releases. In 1993, a titled Tears Are Not Enough was issued exclusively in , featuring a selection of the band's early hits from their Neutron Records era, including the debut single "" and tracks from . That same year, the market received The Remix Collection, a 12-track set of extended and remixed versions of singles like "Poison Arrow" and "Alphabet Soup," highlighting the band's club-oriented remixes from the . These releases served to maintain a modest presence for ABC amid the band's absence from the studio, though they did not signal an active return. , now the sole custodian of the ABC moniker, focused on personal recovery and creative exploration during this time, drawing inspiration from influences like and while navigating the post-New Romantic landscape. By 1996, signs of reformation emerged as Fry began recording sessions for what would become the comeback album Skyscraping. Collaborating with and producer Keith Lowndes, Fry reimagined ABC as a vehicle for his solo vision, emphasizing guitar-driven with nods to 1970s glam and punk aesthetics. This work laid the groundwork for the band's revival, culminating in the album's release the following year and marking Fry's determination to resurrect ABC without White's involvement.

Comeback with Skyscraping and Traffic (1997–2008)

After a four-year hiatus following the band's earlier struggles, frontman revived ABC as essentially a solo project in 1997, releasing the album Skyscraping on May 10 via Blatant Records in the UK. The record marked a shift toward a more organic, guitar-oriented sound influenced by and indie rock, moving away from the synth-heavy production of ABC's 1980s heyday, while retaining Fry's signature suave vocals and witty lyrics. Produced by Martin Fry and Glenn Skinner, it featured contributions from various session musicians, including guitarist Kelvin Millar and drummer Mike 'Mop' McEvoy. Critics praised Skyscraping as a credible comeback, with AllMusic's noting it as "a rarity amongst comebacks" that avoided disaster through fine moments like the title track and "," though it lacked the consistent thrill of the band's classic singles. Commercially, the album achieved modest success, peaking outside the Top 40, but it rekindled interest among fans with three singles: "" ( #57), "Skyscraping," and "Rolling Sevens, Crushed Elevens," the latter two failing to chart significantly. To promote the release, Fry assembled a touring lineup including Mark White's brief return on guitar for select dates, performing across the and in 1997, blending new material with ABC hits at venues like . Following another extended break, during which Fry focused on personal projects and occasional guest appearances, ABC returned in 2008 with Traffic, their first album of original material in 11 years, released on April 28 via V2 Records in the . Co-produced by Fry and , the album blended pop-rock elements with electronic touches, drawing comparisons to the band's mid-1980s work while incorporating modern production; standout tracks included "The Very First Time" and "," the latter hailed by Music as equaling Fry's all-time best for its emotional depth and melody. Reviewers lauded it as ABC's most satisfying effort since the mid-1980s, with assigning a 3.5/5 rating for its credible energy and Fry's undiminished charisma, though it peaked at #58, reflecting ongoing commercial challenges. Singles such as "Ride" and "The Very First Time" received radio play but did not chart highly. In support of Traffic, ABC undertook the Regeneration Tour in mid-2008, a US package tour alongside acts like , , , and , where Fry and a backing band performed selections from the new album alongside staples like "The Look of Love." This period solidified Fry's role as ABC's creative anchor, bridging the band's legacy with contemporary output amid a landscape dominated by digital music shifts.

The Lexicon of Love II and anniversary activities (2016–2022)

In 2016, ABC released their ninth studio album, , serving as a conceptual sequel to their 1982 debut . Frontman described the project as exploring themes of love in middle age, drawing parallels to for its reflective tone on romance and relationships. The album was recorded over several years, with Fry collaborating on songwriting and production alongside Gary Stevenson, while Academy Award-winning composer returned to provide orchestral arrangements, echoing her role on the original album—though producer did not participate this time. Released on 27 May 2016 via , it featured 11 tracks blending with lush strings and Fry's signature vocals, including singles like "Viva Love" and "The Flames of Desire." Critically, The Lexicon of Love II received positive reviews for recapturing the sophistication of ABC's early work while updating it for contemporary audiences. praised its "polished, dramatic sound" and Fry's lyrical maturity, awarding it 3.5 out of 5 stars. Commercially, it marked ABC's strongest chart performance in decades, debuting at number 14 on the Official Albums Chart and spending nine weeks in the top 100. Special editions, including deluxe CD packages and a limited-edition with artwork nods to the original, were made available through the band's official webstore. To promote the album, ABC embarked on a UK tour in late 2016, performing in full followed by selections from its sequel, often billed as "The Lexicons of Love I & II." Shows at venues like the Royal Festival Hall in highlighted the continuity between the two records, with live orchestrations enhancing tracks from both eras. This format allowed Fry to revisit the band's new wave roots while introducing newer material, drawing enthusiastic crowds nostalgic for the hits like "Poison Arrow" and "The Look of Love." The tour extended into early 2017 with additional European dates, solidifying the album's live presence. Building on this momentum, ABC's activities from 2017 to 2021 focused on sporadic touring and festival appearances, including sets at events like Rewind Festival, where they performed classic material alongside tracks from The Lexicon of Love II. In 2022, to mark the 40th anniversary of the original The Lexicon of Love, the band announced a dedicated tour, performing the 1982 album in its entirety at major venues such as Birmingham Symphony Hall and London's Eventim Apollo. The June 2022 run, produced in collaboration with original Malcolm Garrett, featured updated visuals inspired by the iconic cover art and culminated in a homecoming show at on the exact anniversary date of the album's release. This milestone outing, Fry's first major headline tour in years, emphasized ABC's enduring legacy in and attracted a mix of longtime fans and younger audiences discovering the band's catalog.

Recent tours (2023–present)

In 2023, ABC made select live appearances, including a performance at the held at Brookside at the Rose Bowl in , on May 20, where they shared the bill with acts such as Siouxsie, , and . The band followed this with a show at in on May 22, marking a brief North American outing focused on their new wave hits. Additional European dates included a June 24 appearance at a festival in , , emphasizing their enduring appeal in synth-pop circles. The year 2024 saw ABC embark on an ambitious schedule, beginning with the 40th Anniversary Tour celebrating their debut album The Lexicon of Love. This orchestral run, conducted by with the Southbank Sinfonia, featured the full album performed in sequence alongside other hits, commencing on January 29 at Cliffs Pavilion in and concluding February 1 at the London Palladium after stops in , , , and Birmingham. In summer, the band joined Howard Jones for a co-headlining North American tour, supported by Haircut 100, with dates from August 14 at in , through September 1 at in , including venues like the in , on August 20. ABC also participated in package tours such as and Lost 80s Live, performing across 16 and 4 dates respectively, primarily in the . In 2025, ABC continued their focus on The Lexicon of Love with a headline orchestral tour across the , again featuring and the Lexicon Sinfonia, starting October 30 at and extending through November dates such as November 4 at Cliffs Pavilion in , November 6 at Royal Concert Hall in , and November 9–10 at the London Palladium. Concurrently, they announced a second co-headlining outing with Howard Jones for the , kicking off February 6 at The Masonic in and running through March 2 at The Fillmore in New Orleans, with support from on select dates. As of November 2025, the UK tour remains active, underscoring the band's commitment to reinterpreting their seminal work for contemporary audiences.

Musical style and influences

Roots in new wave and synth-pop

ABC originated in the vibrant and electronic music scene of , , emerging from the experimental synthesizer group Vice Versa, which formed in 1977 by and Mark White. Vice Versa produced raw, minimalist electronic tracks, self-releasing a tape titled Music 4, and performed in underground venues amid Sheffield's industrial backdrop, where bands like Cabaret Voltaire and pioneered electronic experimentation. By 1980, as Vice Versa disbanded, Singleton and White recruited journalist as vocalist after he interviewed them, shifting toward a more accessible pop-oriented sound that blended their electronic foundations with broader influences. The band's early style drew heavily from new wave's angular energy and synth-pop's glossy textures, fusing Sheffield's grit with and elements. Influences included David Bowie's innovative persona and -era experimentation, Roxy Music's art-rock sophistication, and T. Rex's glam flair, which inspired ABC's theatrical presentation and melodic hooks. Fry has cited pioneers like and as key to adding rhythmic drive, transforming Vice Versa's stark synth lines into danceable grooves with added bass and drums, as heard in their debut single "" (1981). This evolution positioned ABC within the burgeoning new romantic movement, characterized by flamboyant visuals and synthesizer-driven pop, alongside contemporaries like and . ABC's roots in were solidified through their adoption of affordable synthesizers like the MS-20 and M500, tools common in the early electronic scene, allowing them to craft lush, orchestral arrangements without traditional instrumentation. Their signing to Neutron Records in 1980 and subsequent deal with Mercury enabled production polish, evident in the sophisticated sound of (1982), produced by , which epitomized synth-pop's blend of emotional lyrics and synthetic orchestration. Fry described this transition as an "act of ," merging punk's DIY ethos with disco's euphoria to create witty, romance-themed anthems that critiqued modern love amid electronic exuberance. This foundation not only defined their breakthrough but also cemented ABC's role in popularizing synth-pop's mainstream appeal during the early .

Evolution across decades

ABC's musical style originated in the early 1980s as a cornerstone of movement within , fusing with soulful vocals, funky basslines, and elaborate orchestral arrangements to create what became known as . Led by frontman Martin Fry's smooth, emotive delivery, the band's debut album (1982) exemplified this polished, cinematic sound, drawing on influences from R&B, , and while emphasizing romantic themes and dramatic production by . This era established ABC as innovators in "perfect pop," blending electronic elements with live instrumentation for a lush, accessible aesthetic that dominated and radio airwaves. By the mid-1980s, ABC's sound began shifting toward a brighter, more danceable pop orientation, incorporating greater use of percussion, horns, and upbeat rhythms to align with the era's club culture and trends. Albums like Beauty Stab (1983) introduced rockier guitar elements and a rawer edge, moving away from pure synth orchestration toward a hybrid of new wave and mainstream pop, while How to Be a... Zillionaire! (1985) and Alphabet City (1987) amplified funky grooves and electronic beats, reflecting the band's adaptation to commercial pressures and the rise of precursors. This evolution maintained their core sophistication but prioritized infectious hooks and visual flair, solidifying their status as pop icons. The late 1980s and early 1990s marked a transitional phase, where ABC experimented with acid house, ambient textures, and introspective lyrics amid lineup changes and label shifts. Up (1989) ventured into club-oriented electronica with sampled beats and atmospheric synths, while Abracadabra (1991) blended pop with subtle industrial and jazz-funk undertones, showcasing a more mature, eclectic approach that prioritized emotional depth over chart formula. Following a hiatus from 1991 to 1997 amid commercial challenges and lineup changes, the band's reformation yielded Skyscraping (1997), which leaned into guitar-driven indie rock with Britpop influences, signaling a departure from synth dominance toward organic, live-band energy. Subsequent releases like Traffic (2008) further incorporated adult contemporary and soft rock elements, evolving into a reflective, road-tested sound that echoed classic soul while updating it for a new millennium audience. Entering the 2010s, ABC revisited their foundational style with The Lexicon of Love II (2016), a conceptual sequel that revived orchestral through collaborations with and modern remixing, bridging nostalgic grandeur with contemporary clarity. This album's success, coupled with anniversary tours featuring full orchestras, highlighted the band's ability to refine rather than reinvent, contrasting Fry's earlier rock configurations with symphonic splendor. In the 2020s, ABC has sustained this hybrid legacy through live performances emphasizing their catalog's breadth—from synth anthems to evolved pop—while occasional new tracks and remixes nod to electronic revivalism, ensuring their influence persists in post-pandemic touring circuits.

Band members

Core and current members

ABC, originally formed in in 1980 from the remnants of the electronic band Vice Versa, had as its core members songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Mark White (guitar, keyboards), saxophonist , and vocalist , who joined after interviewing White and Singleton for a . Singleton departed the group in 1984 following the recording of their second album (1983), after which White and Fry continued as the primary creative duo. White retired from the band in 1992, leaving Martin Fry as the sole remaining core member and the band's enduring frontman. As of , ABC operates primarily as a touring act led by Fry, with a rotating lineup of supporting musicians drawn from his UK and US ensembles. The current configuration for recent and ongoing tours, including the 2025 co-headlining run with Howard Jones, features Fry on vocals, Toshi Yanagi on guitar, Rob Hughes on saxophone and keyboards, on drums, Andy Carr on bass, and Brian Farmer on keyboards. This setup provides the and new wave energy central to ABC's sound, often augmented by additional players or horn sections for live performances.

Former members

The original lineup of ABC underwent several changes in its early years, with key founding members departing after the band's initial success. , co-founder and saxophonist, contributed to the debut album (1982) and the follow-up (1983) before retiring from the band in 1984 to pursue other interests. Mark White, the other co-founder alongside Singleton, handled guitars, keyboards, and programming from the band's formation in 1980 until 1992. He played a central role in shaping ABC's sound through four studio albums but left following the release of , citing a desire to exit the music industry amid financial agreements with the group. This departure reduced ABC to a solo project led by . Drummer David Palmer joined in 1982, replacing early member , and performed on as part of the classic lineup. Palmer departed in the summer of 1983 during sessions for , after which the band relied more on session musicians for percussion. Bassist Mark Lickley was an early addition in 1981, providing the low-end foundation for the debut album, but left shortly thereafter in 1982 without a direct replacement in the core lineup. Subsequent bass parts were handled by session players, including Brad Lang for select tracks on . David Robinson served as the initial drummer from 1980 to 1982, contributing to the band's formative live performances and early recordings before being replaced by Palmer. In later years, ABC's touring and recording lineups featured various session and supporting musicians, such as those on Skyscraping (1997), but none achieved official band member status after White's exit. The band's evolution into Fry's primary vehicle emphasized flexibility over fixed membership.

Timeline

ABC's lineup has undergone several changes since its inception, reflecting shifts in musical direction and commercial fortunes. The band began as a trio before expanding for live shows and later contracting to a duo amid creative tensions. Following a hiatus, it has operated primarily as Martin Fry's project with rotating support musicians.
PeriodCore/Active MembersKey Changes and Notes
1980–1984Martin Fry (vocals); Mark White (guitars, keyboards); Stephen Singleton (saxophones)Formed in Sheffield from the remnants of Vice Versa; initial live support included bassist Mark Lickley (1981–1982) and drummers David Robinson (1980–1982) and David Palmer (1982–1983). Released debut album The Lexicon of Love (1982) and Beauty Stab (1983) with this configuration.
1984–1991Martin Fry (vocals); Mark White (guitars, keyboards)Singleton retired in 1984 after Beauty Stab; duo augmented by session players. For How to Be a...Zillionaire! (1985), added Fiona Russell Powell (percussion, 1985–1986) and non-performing image member David Yarritu (1985–1986). Glenn Goring joined on guitar (1986–1989) for Alphabet City (1987) and Up (1989). Released Abracadabra (1991) as duo with additional session contributors.
1992–1996Martin Fry (solo project)White departed in 1992 following Abracadabra; band entered hiatus as Fry pursued solo interests and health recovery. No official releases or tours.
1997–2008Martin Fry (vocals); various session/touring musiciansReformed for Skyscraping (1997) with contributors like Jayney Klimek (backing vocals); continued with rotating support for Traffic (2008), including keyboardist Rob Halliday. Fry remained the only constant.
2009–presentMartin Fry (vocals); rotating touring band (typically 4–5 members: guitar, bass, drums, keyboards, saxophone)Ongoing tours and The Lexicon of Love II (2016) featured producer Gary Langan, Chuck Kentis (keyboards), and Amy Langley (saxophone); David Palmer briefly rejoined for select dates (2016). Current 2025 touring lineup for the co-headlining shows with Howard Jones includes Toshi Yanagi (guitar), Rob Hughes (saxophone and keyboards), Jimmy Keegan (drums), Andy Carr (bass), and Brian Farmer (keyboards). For the UK orchestral tour (October–November 2025), the lineup is augmented by conductor Anne Dudley and The Lexicon Sinfonia.

Discography

Studio albums

ABC has released nine studio albums since their formation in 1980, spanning from their breakthrough debut in the early to a release in the . The band's discography reflects their evolution from polished to more experimental and reflective sounds, often featuring Martin Fry's distinctive vocals and lyrics exploring themes of love, romance, and social observation.
TitleYearLabelSelected singlesUK peak (Albums Chart)
1982Mercury"The Look of Love", "Poison Arrow", ""1
1983Mercury"That Was Then but This Is Now", "S.O.S."12
How to Be a... Zillionaire!1985Mercury"", "How to Be a Zillionaire", "(How to Be a) Millionaire"28
Alphabet City1987Mercury"", "The Night You Murdered Love"7
Up1989Virgin"The Real Thing", "One Better World"58
1991Virgin"Love Conquers All", "Say It"50
Skyscraping1997Eagle"", "Skyscraping"97
2008Universal"The Very First Time"—
The Lexicon of Love II2016Virgin EMI"Viva Love", "The Look of Love Pt. 2"5
The debut album The Lexicon of Love, produced by , is widely regarded as a landmark in , blending orchestral arrangements with electronic elements and achieving commercial success with three top 10 singles. It set the template for ABC's sophisticated pop sound, incorporating string sections arranged by . Subsequent releases like shifted toward guitar-driven rock influences, marking a deliberate departure from the lush production of their first album, though it received mixed reviews for abandoning the synth elements that defined their initial appeal. How to Be a... Zillionaire! returned to electronic production, produced by and Mark White, yielding hits that emphasized the band's satirical take on wealth and fame. By the late , albums such as Alphabet City and Up incorporated house and dance influences, reflecting the changing musical landscape, while later works like Skyscraping and showcased a mature, introspective style with live instrumentation. The 2016 release The Lexicon of Love II, produced by Gary Stevenson, served as a thematic to their debut, reuniting with original contributors and earning praise for recapturing their early grandeur.

Compilation and live albums

ABC's compilation albums have played a significant role in sustaining the band's popularity, particularly by collecting their synth-pop hits from the 1980s into accessible packages for new audiences. The 1990 release Absolutely stands out as a comprehensive greatest hits collection, featuring 17 tracks spanning their early career, including singles like "Poison Arrow" and "The Look of Love," up to material from their 1989 album Up. Issued by Mercury Records, it marked a retrospective point after the band's initial commercial peak and helped reintroduce their sophisticated new wave sound to listeners amid the grunge era. In the early 2000s, several high-profile compilations further solidified ABC's legacy. 20th Century Masters - The Millennium Collection: The Best of ABC (2000), released by Polydor, curated 11 key tracks emphasizing their chart-topping era, such as "Tears Are Not Enough" and "All of My Heart," and achieved notable sales as part of Universal's millennium series. Similarly, The Look of Love: The Very Best of ABC (2001) expanded on this with 17 remastered songs, adding B-sides and live elements, and was praised for its polished presentation of the band's romantic, horn-infused pop style. These releases, often bundled with videos or deluxe editions, contributed to renewed interest, peaking at positions in the UK and charts. ABC's live albums capture the band's energetic performances and evolution on stage. Their debut live recording, The Lexicon of Live (1999), documented a 1998 tour with frontman Martin Fry backed by session musicians, delivering faithful renditions of hits like "When Smokey Sings" and "One Better World" alongside deeper cuts. Released by Ark 21 Records, it highlighted Fry's enduring charisma during a period of lineup changes. More recently, The Lexicon of Love - Live (2022), recorded at Sheffield City Hall to celebrate the 40th anniversary of their debut album, features the full The Lexicon of Love tracklist performed with orchestral accompaniment, blending original arrangements with contemporary flair. Issued via Cadiz Music, this double album underscores ABC's lasting appeal and orchestral reinterpretations in live settings.

Chart performance

Mainstream chart success

ABC achieved significant mainstream chart success in the early 1980s, particularly with their debut album The Lexicon of Love, which topped the UK Albums Chart in 1982 and reached number 24 on the US Billboard 200, earning gold certification in the United States. The album spawned several hit singles, including "The Look of Love," which peaked at number 4 on the UK Singles Chart and number 18 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1982, marking their breakthrough in both markets. "Poison Arrow" followed, reaching number 6 in the UK and number 25 in the US the same year, while "All of My Heart" climbed to number 5 in the UK. These tracks exemplified ABC's polished synth-pop sound and helped establish them as key figures in the new wave movement. Subsequent releases sustained their momentum, though with varying transatlantic appeal. The 1983 follow-up Beauty Stab peaked at number 12 on the , but their US presence grew stronger with later singles like "" from the 1985 album How to Be a...Zillionaire!, which hit number 9 on the despite only reaching number 26 in the UK. By 1987, Alphabet City yielded "," peaking at number 5 in the US and number 11 in the UK, alongside the album's number 7 position on the UK chart. Overall, ABC amassed 10 UK top 40 singles and 5 US top 40 hits between 1981 and 1990, with their early work driving the bulk of their commercial peak.

Dance chart achievements

ABC demonstrated notable success on the chart (formerly known as Hot Dance/Disco), a key indicator of popularity in American nightclubs during the 1980s era. The band's polished production and extended 12-inch remixes appealed to DJs, leading to three number-one singles that underscored their crossover from mainstream pop to dance floors. These achievements highlighted ABC's ability to blend new wave aesthetics with club-friendly beats, influencing the era's landscape. Their first dance chart triumph came with "The Look of Love," the from their 1982 debut album . Released with remixes by producers such as Mark Kamman, it reached number one for one week on December 18, 1982, marking ABC's breakthrough in the club scene. In 1985, "Be Near Me" from the album How to Be a... Zillionaire! topped the chart for two consecutive weeks, from September 28 to October 5. The track's funky bassline and extended mixes by propelled its club dominance, reflecting ABC's evolving sound with hip-hop influences. ABC's final number-one dance hit was "When Smokey Sings," the opener from their 1987 album Alphabet City. Paired with its B-side "Chicago," it held the top spot for two weeks, from August 29 to September 5, 1987, paying homage to soul legends like Smokey Robinson while incorporating house and freestyle elements popular in clubs at the time. Beyond these peaks, ABC charted several other singles on the Dance Club Songs list, such as "Poison Arrow" (peaking at number 25 in 1983) and "(How to Be a) Millionaire" (number 4 in 1986), demonstrating consistent club play throughout the decade. These accomplishments cemented ABC's reputation as a dance-oriented act, with their remixes often outlasting mainstream singles in club rotations.

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  58. https://consequence.net/2024/04/howard-jones-abc-2024-tour/
  59. https://www.setlist.fm/stats/average-setlist/abc-6bd6ba3e.html?year=2024
  60. https://www.ticketmaster.com/abc-tickets/artist/734382
  61. https://chaoscontrol.com/martin-fry-abc-interview/
  62. https://www.electronicsound.co.uk/features/long-reads/a-sheffield-story-from-vice-versa-to-abc/
  63. https://www.classicpopmag.com/features/abc-martin-fry-interview/
  64. https://www.theguardian.com/music/2019/dec/12/sheffields-post-punk-explosion-synths-steel-and-skinheads
  65. https://www.salon.com/2022/07/09/abc-martin-fry-lexicon-of-love-80s/
  66. https://www.abcmartinfry.com/
  67. https://thebossbookingagency.com/artist/abc/
  68. https://www.houstonpress.com/music/things-to-do-see-martin-fry-with-abc-with-howard-jones-at-the-house-of-blues-19857262/
  69. https://allmusicmagazine.com/howard-jones-abc-at-omaha-nebraskas-steelhouse/
  70. https://www.youtubetheater.com/news/detail/new-wave-icon-howard-jones-and-synth-pop-stars-abc-set-for-north-american-tour-this-summer-with-special-guest-alternative-pop-faves-haircut-100
  71. https://www.davegott.com/music/artist/abc/index.html
  72. https://www.discogs.com/artist/418064-Mark-Lickley
  73. https://sfsonic.com/concerts/howard-jones-and-abc-kick-off-their-2025-tour-at-the-masonic-in-style/
  74. https://www.songkick.com/artists/268208-abc
  75. https://www.classicpopmag.com/news/abc-announce-the-lexicon-of-love-orchestral-tour-2025/
  76. https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-lexicon-of-love-mw0000649803
  77. https://www.discogs.com/release/14201362-ABC-Absolutely
  78. https://open.spotify.com/album/25wSOjnexSXVdtSmUyELkk
  79. https://www.discogs.com/release/990376-ABC-Look-Of-Love-The-Very-Best-Of-ABC
  80. https://www.amazon.com/Lexicon-Live-ABC/dp/B00004TJ96
  81. https://abcmartinfry.bandcamp.com/album/the-lexicon-of-love-live
  82. https://www.musicvf.com/ABC.alb
  83. https://www.disco-disco.com/disco/billboard.shtml
  84. https://www.billboard.com/charts/dance-club-play-songs/1985-09-28/
  85. https://www.billboard.com/charts/dance-club-play-songs/1987-08-29/
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