Joanne Catherall

Joanne Catherall was born on September 18th, 1962

Full Name: Joanne Catherall

Birthplace: Sheffield, England

Profession: Singer

Notable Bands: The Human League

Music Genre: Synthpop

Hit Singles: Dont You Want Me

Band Members: Philip Oakey

Awards Won: Multiple Brit Awards

A vocalist and keyboardist for the British synth-pop band The Human League, known for hits like "Don't You Want Me" and "Human".

Written by:

Jack Thompson

Joanne Catherall: The Iconic Voice of The Human League

Joanne Catherall is a renowned English singer, best known as one of the two female vocalists of the iconic synthpop band, The Human League. With a career spanning over four decades, Catherall's distinctive voice and style have been an integral part of the band's sound and success.

Early Life and Discovery

Born on September 18, 1962, in Sheffield, England, Catherall's journey to stardom began when she was just 18 years old. She and her best friend, Susan Ann Sulley, were discovered by Philip Oakey, the lead singer of The Human League, at Sheffield's Crazy Daisy Nightclub in 1980.

Oakey was impressed by the pair's unique style, makeup, and dance moves, and invited them to join the band as dancers and incidental vocalists. Catherall and Sulley agreed, and soon found themselves on tour with The Human League, performing to sold-out crowds across Europe.

Rise to Fame

The Human League's new lineup, featuring Catherall and Sulley, proved to be a massive success. The band's 1981 album, Fascination!, spawned several hit singles, including "Don't You Want Me" and "Open Your Heart", both of which showcased Catherall's distinctive vocals.

The band's subsequent albums, Hysteria (1984) and Cruise (1986), solidified their position as one of the leading acts of the synthpop movement. Catherall's vocals became an integral part of The Human League's sound, and her distinctive style and presence on stage endeared her to fans worldwide.

Business Partner and Continued Success

In addition to her vocal contributions, Catherall is also a joint business partner in The Human League, along with Oakey and Sulley. This unique arrangement has allowed the band to maintain creative control and continue to perform and produce music to this day.

The Human League has released several albums since the 1990s, including Octopus (1995), (2001), and Credo (2011). The band has also continued to tour extensively, performing at festivals and venues around the world.

Legacy and Impact

Joanne Catherall's legacy extends beyond her contributions to The Human League. She has inspired countless young musicians and fans with her unique style and vocals, and has played a significant role in shaping the synthpop genre.

Catherall's influence can be seen in many modern synthpop and electronic bands, and her music continues to be celebrated by fans of all ages.

Quotes and Memorable Sayings

"I think we were just in the right place at the right time, and it all came together in a really magical way." - Joanne Catherall on joining The Human League
"We've always been a bit of an outsider band, and I think that's what's kept us going." - Joanne Catherall on The Human League's enduring success

Timeline

1962

Born in Sheffield, England

Joanne Catherall was born in Sheffield, England, where she grew up with a passion for music and art.

1980

Joins The Human League

Catherall joined The Human League, a pioneering synth-pop band, contributing vocals and visuals to their work.

1981

Releases Dont You Want Me

The Human League released their hit single Dont You Want Me, featuring Catherall on vocals and co-writing credits.

1995

Tours with The Human League

Catherall toured with The Human League, performing their classic hits and new material around the world.

2000

Continues with The Human League

Catherall continued to work with The Human League, releasing new music and performing live with the band.

Joanne Catherall Quiz

What is Joanne Catherall's role in The Human League?

Score: 0/5

FAQ

What band is Joanne Catherall a member of?

Joanne Catherall is a member of the English synth-pop band The Human League, which she joined in 1980.

What is Joanne Catheralls role in The Human League?

Joanne Catherall is a vocalist and backing singer for The Human League, and has appeared on many of the bands most famous recordings.

What was Joanne Catheralls early life like?

Joanne Catherall grew up in Sheffield, England, and was a fan of punk rock and post-punk music before joining The Human League.

Has Joanne Catherall worked on any solo projects?

While Joanne Catherall has primarily focused on her work with The Human League, she has occasionally contributed vocals to solo projects and collaborations with other artists.

What is Joanne Catheralls most famous song?

Joanne Catheralls most famous song is probably Dont You Want Me, a hit single by The Human League that reached number one on the UK Singles Chart in 1981.

Related People: