Beauty And The Beat The Go Go's
The Go-Go's are an all-female rock band that formed in Los Angeles in 1978. Their debut album, "Beauty and the Beat," was released in 1981 and was a massive success, making them the first all-female band to have a #1 album on the Billboard charts. The album was also certified double platinum and has since become a classic of the early 80s new wave and punk rock scenes.
The Band Members
The Go-Go's were formed by lead vocalist Belinda Carlisle, guitarist and keyboardist Jane Wiedlin, guitarist Charlotte Caffey, bassist Kathy Valentine, and drummer Gina Schock. All five members wrote songs for the band, with Carlisle and Caffey penning the majority of the tracks on "Beauty and the Beat."
The Making of "Beauty and the Beat"
"Beauty and the Beat" was recorded in New York City in the summer of 1980. The band worked with producer Richard Gottehrer, who had previously produced albums for Blondie and The Fleshtones. The album was recorded quickly, with the band only having a few weeks to lay down the tracks. The result was a raw, energetic sound that perfectly captured the band's punk and new wave influences.
The Songs
"Beauty and the Beat" features 12 tracks, including the hit singles "Our Lips Are Sealed" and "We Got the Beat." The album also includes fan favorites like "How Much More," "This Town," and "Lust to Love." The songs on the album are upbeat and catchy, with lyrics that often deal with the ups and downs of relationships and the struggles of being a young woman in a male-dominated music industry.
The Legacy of "Beauty and the Beat"
"Beauty and the Beat" has had a lasting impact on popular music and culture. The album broke down barriers for women in rock and roll, paving the way for future all-female bands like The Bangles and Sleater-Kinney. The Go-Go's themselves went on to have a successful career, releasing four more albums and touring extensively throughout the 80s and 90s. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021, cementing their place in music history.
The Bottom Line
"Beauty and the Beat" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the history of punk and new wave music or the role of women in rock and roll. Its catchy hooks and relatable lyrics make it a timeless classic that still resonates with audiences today. If you haven't listened to it yet, do yourself a favor and give it a spin.