In 1978, the world gave us mainstream pop stars, Duran Duran. The band, out of Birmingham, England, was founded by Nick Rhodes and John Taylor. Roger Taylor, Andy Taylor and Simon Le Bon were added soon after they started selling tickets at local bars and venues in the area. Soon EMI Records came calling and in 1981 they released their debut album, Duran Duran, which sold over 6 million copies worldwide.
The album’s single, “Girls on Film”, gave the band national exposure. Using the music video, which was very controversial by some, Duran Duran was able to leverage that success and launch their first US tour. Venues across the country were selling out on a nightly basis.
After returning from touring the band released their second album, Rio, in 1982. The album featured the singles, “Hungry Like the Wolf,” “Save a Prayer” and the title track “Rio” and sold over 10 million copies.
Over the years, Duran Duran has won may awards and accolades. In 1986, they won the Golden Globe for “Best Original Song” with their single, “A View to a Kill”. Also six MTV Video Music Awards including the “Lifetime Achievement” awards in 2003.
Since their inception in 1981, Duran Duran has become a music household name. They have gone through breakups, disanointing reunion, and more but have sold million of albums worldwide and always bring us back to the 80’s glam with their shows.