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Spandau Ballet Reunion Speculation Arises Following Gary Kemp Comments
Whispers of a potential Spandau Ballet reunion have surfaced after guitarist Gary Kemp indicated a willingness to reform the iconic 80s band with Tony Hadley returning as lead vocalist. Kemp’s suggestion, made in a January interview, reportedly caught Hadley off guard, especially considering the frontman’s two prior departures from the New Romantic group in 1990 and 2017, both marked by significant discord and public fallout among band members.
Hints of Reconciliation
Kemp’s remarks, suggesting a desire for amicable relations with Hadley, appeared to signal a possible thaw in tensions. He stated, “I want to die with no enemies, right? So if me and Tony can just be happy in each other’s company or happy for each other, and I think we are that,” implying a readiness to set aside past differences and potentially reunite musically.
Tony Hadley’s Surprised Reaction
However, when questioned about the prospect of a Spandau Ballet reunion and whether he would consider “burying the hatchet,” Hadley responded with amusement. He admitted Kemp’s comments were “news to me,” exclaiming, “I was like, ‘What?’ Listen, I’m getting on with my life.”
Current Commitments and Future Prospects
Hadley emphasized his current professional commitments, stating:
- Extensive big band tour scheduled for the end of the year.
- European tour planned for October and November.
- Festival appearances.
- Bookings in Australia, New Zealand, and Southeast Asia for the following March.
He concluded, “So I haven’t got any time anyway. It’s not going to happen this side of Christmas,” suggesting a reunion is not imminent.
Reflections on Past Relations
Despite the demanding schedule, Hadley’s tone shifted to a more serious note as he remarked, “They should have thought about things. They should have been a bit nicer.” This implies lingering resentment from past band conflicts, although he does not appear to dwell on regrets. At 64, Hadley maintains a successful and fulfilling solo career on the international stage.
Solo Career Highlights and Upcoming Tour
Hadley’s upcoming UK Christmas tour in November will showcase his versatility, featuring:
- Timeless jazz standards.
- Energetic swing anthems.
- Reimagined renditions of Spandau Ballet hits.
While firmly dismissing a Spandau Ballet comeback, this tour offers fans the opportunity to experience Hadley’s distinctive vocals on the band’s beloved songs in a fresh context.
Big Band Renditions of Spandau Classics
Hadley expressed enthusiasm for performing Spandau Ballet classics with a large ensemble. “The great thing is (songs like) Gold and Only When You Leave sound fantastic with the big brass band,” he enthused. “They sound fantastic with an eight-piece brass section behind them. So, it’s going to be great fun.”
Tony Hadley Christmas Big Band Tour 2025
Tickets for the Tony Hadley Christmas Big Band Tour 2025 are currently available for purchase. For ticket information and further details, please visit tonyhadley.com