Eurythmics: Synth-Pop Pioneers and Soulful Innovators
Eurythmics. Formation and Background
Eurythmics was formed in by:
- Annie Lennox – Vocals, keyboards
- Dave Stewart – Guitars, synthesizers, production
The pair had previously played together in the new wave band The Tourists, but left to pursue a more experimental and electronic direction. With no initial commercial support, they self-financed their debut and gradually rose to international fame through a combination of synth wizardry, emotional depth, and striking visuals.
Eurythmics. Breakthrough: Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) (1983)
✦ Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) (1983)
Their second album became a massive success, with its title track becoming one of the most iconic songs of the decade.
Key tracks:
- “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Haunting synth lines and Lennox’s androgynous look made this an MTV and global sensation
- “Love Is a Stranger” – Seductive and eerie
- “I Could Give You (A Mirror)”
This album established Eurythmics as pioneers of synth-pop, with an edge of gothic minimalism and soul.
Eurythmics. Diverse Output and Continued Success (1983–1990)
Eurythmics evolved rapidly beyond electronic music, embracing soul, , and orchestral pop, while Lennox emerged as a powerful feminist icon.
✦ Touch (1983)
- “Here Comes the Rain Again” – A lush, melancholic hit
- “Who’s That Girl?” – Moody and mysterious
- “Right by Your Side” – Caribbean-influenced pop
✦ Be Yourself Tonight (1985)
A more soulful and rock-influenced sound.
Highlights:
- “Would I Lie to You?” – Funky and aggressive
- “There Must Be an Angel (Playing with My Heart)” – UK #1, with Stevie Wonder on harmonica
- “Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves” – Feminist anthem with Aretha Franklin
✦ Revenge (1986)
- “When Tomorrow Comes”
- “Thorn in My Side”
- Continued success with a more arena-rock aesthetic
✦ Savage (1987)
Experimental and conceptual, featuring darker themes and a return to electronic textures.
✦ We Too Are One (1989)
Included:
- “Don’t Ask Me Why”
- “The King and Queen of America”
After this, the duo went on an extended hiatus.
Eurythmics. Hiatus, Solo Work, and Reunion (1990–2005)
- Annie Lennox launched a successful solo career with Diva (1992), including hits like “Why” and “Walking on Broken Glass”
- Dave Stewart became a prolific producer and collaborator (Tom Petty, Mick Jagger, Shakespears Sister)
✦ Peace (1999) – Reunion album
Reflected themes of social justice, healing, and maturity
Included:
- “I Saved the World Today” – A gorgeous ballad
- “17 Again” – Nostalgic yet forward-looking
They briefly toured and remained close creative collaborators.
Eurythmics. Legacy and Influence
Eurythmics are celebrated for:
- Fusing synth-pop with soul, rock, and avant-garde elements
- Inventive music videos and strong visual identity
- Pushing gender norms and androgyny in pop culture (Lennox’s suits and buzzcut were revolutionary)
Influence seen in:
- Florence + The Machine
- Lady Gaga
- Lorde
- Goldfrapp
- The Weeknd’s retro aesthetic
Achievements:
- Over 75 million records sold worldwide
- Numerous Brit, Grammy, and MTV awards
- Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022
- Consistently ranked among the greatest duos in rock/pop history
Interesting Facts
- “Sweet Dreams” was recorded in a home studio above a picture framing shop
- Annie Lennox trained at the Royal Academy of Music in London
- Their videos were early staples of MTV, blending art and pop
- Their name is derived from a 1940s education system called “Eurhythmics,” focused on movement and rhythm
