The Dexys Midnight Runners were a band formed in Birmingham, England, in 1977. They were known for their unique blend of soul, punk, and Celtic folk music, and for their flamboyant stage costumes, which included donkey jackets, stetsons, and braces.
The band's debut album, Searching for the Young Soul Rebels, was released in 1980 and was a critical and commercial success. The album featured the hit singles "Dance Stance" and "Geno." The band's second album, Too-Rye-Ay, was released in 1982 and was even more successful than their debut. The album featured the hit singles "Come On Eileen" and "Jackie Wilson Said (I'm in Heaven When You Smile)."
However, after the release of Too-Rye-Ay, the band began to decline. Their third album, Don't Stand Me Down, was a commercial failure, and the band broke up in 1983.
In 2003, the band reformed and released a new album, One Day I'm Going to Soar. The album was a critical success, but it failed to achieve commercial success.
So, what went wrong for the Dexys Midnight Runners?
There are a number of factors that contributed to the band's decline. First, the band's sound was too eclectic for some listeners. Their blend of soul, punk, and Celtic folk music was not easily categorized, and it alienated some fans.
Second, the band's stage costumes were too flamboyant for some people. Their donkey jackets, stetsons, and braces were seen as pretentious and silly by some critics.
Third, the band's lead singer, Kevin Rowland, was a difficult personality. He was often outspoken and confrontational, and he alienated some members of the band and the music industry.
Finally, the band's record label, EMI, did not give them the support they needed. EMI was not sure how to market the band, and they did not promote their albums properly.
As a result of these factors, the Dexys Midnight Runners declined and eventually broke up. However, their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Were the Dexys Midnight Runners mad? In some ways, yes. Their sound was too eclectic, their stage costumes were too flamboyant, and their lead singer was too difficult. However, their music was also brilliant, and they deserve to be remembered as one of the most unique and innovative bands of their time.
What do you think? Were the Dexys Midnight Runners mad? Let us know in the comments below!