Blue Angel

Blue Angel was an American rock band formed in the late 1970s, best known for launching the career of singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper. Here are several facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Blue Angel was formed in 1978 in New York City by Cyndi Lauper, along with guitarist John Turi, bassist Arthur "Rockin' A" Neilson, keyboardist Arthur "Woody" Orton, and drummer Johnny Morelli. The band quickly gained a following in the local music scene with their energetic live performances and eclectic mix of rockabilly, new wave, and punk influences.

2. Self-Titled Debut Album: In 1980, Blue Angel released their self-titled debut album, produced by Steve Massarsky. The album featured a blend of original songs written by Lauper and cover versions of classic rockabilly tunes. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, the album failed to achieve commercial success, and Blue Angel was subsequently dropped by their record label.

3. Disbandment and Cyndi Lauper's Solo Career: Following the commercial failure of their debut album, Blue Angel disbanded in 1981. However, Cyndi Lauper's talent and charisma caught the attention of David Wolff, who became her manager. Under Wolff's guidance, Lauper embarked on a successful solo career, releasing her debut album "She's So Unusual" in 1983. The album spawned several hit singles, including "Girls Just Want to Have Fun", "Time After Time", and "True Colors", catapulting Lauper to international fame and establishing her as a pop icon.

4. Legacy and Influence: While Blue Angel's tenure as a band was short-lived, their impact on Cyndi Lauper's career and the music industry as a whole cannot be overstated. Lauper's distinctive vocal style and eclectic musical sensibilities were shaped during her time with Blue Angel, laying the groundwork for her successful solo career. Additionally, Blue Angel's fusion of rockabilly and new wave influences foreshadowed the rise of the retro revival movement in the 1980s, influencing subsequent generations of artists.

5. Cult Following and Posthumous Releases: Despite their lack of commercial success, Blue Angel developed a cult following among fans of Cyndi Lauper and retro music enthusiasts. In the years following their disbandment, interest in Blue Angel's music resurfaced, leading to the release of archival recordings and live performances. These posthumous releases have helped preserve the band's legacy and introduce their music to new audiences, ensuring that Blue Angel's contribution to rock music history is not forgotten.