The Blow Monkeys

One of the progenitors of 1980s sophisti-pop, the Blow Monkeys' swanky, theatrical sound is the brainchild of U.K. singer and songwriter Dr. Robert. After forming in 1981, the group had their biggest hit in 1986 with the international Top 20 hit "Digging Your Scene" from their internationally charting sophomore album, Animal Magic. A year later, their cover of Lesley Gore's "You Don't Own Me" appeared on the multi-platinum soundtrack for Dirty Dancing, and they went to a career-high number 20 in the U.K. with third album She Was Only a Grocer's Daughter. Although 1989's Whoops! There Goes the Neighbourhood would prove to be their final album to chart, resulting in a 1990 disbandment, the group would reunite for 2008's Devil's Tavern. Reinspired, they continued to release new material throughout the 2010s and 2020s, with their 12th LP, Together/Alone, showcasing a lush, orchestral approach to their trademark sound in 2024.