Watch Spandau Ballet play their first gig with their new singer
7 June 2018, 14:19 | Updated: 25 June 2018, 15:10
Spandau Ballet launched their new era without Tony Hadley last night (June 6).
The band's new singer Ross William Wild was unveiled at a special one-off show in London.
Wild was introduced to the group after starring as Elvis Presley alongside bassist Martin Kemp in The Million Dollar Quartet on stage in 2016.
"He gave me goosebumps every time he sang," Kemp said.
Gary Kemp said: "Ross's great talent and passion has given us the confidence to continue playing the music we love. To quote one of our own songs: 'There's power in his voice and it makes us feel so sure..."
@SpandauBallet @RossWilliamWild @SteveNormanReal @realmartinkemp #garykemp @RockGod667 not only can he sing but he’s got great arms special guest appearance from @emmacaputi #spandauballetlive pic.twitter.com/nY9c5LJeQx
— Anna Dawson (@AnnaDaw150765) June 6, 2018
Steve Norman added: "Ross not only has the technical ability to cover Spandau's songs but he's already introducing his artistic creativity to the fold. On top of that he's a right nice bloke. We struck lucky."
Wild said: "Spandau's music is so current. Having listened to it from a young age and then getting back into it recently, this stuff is still so valid. That's why it's so important that they keep going. Spandau Ballet isn't about one person.
"It isn't just about the boys that are there now. It's not about me. It was a movement. If it wasn't for Spandau so much stuff wouldn't have happened. They are pioneers. To be at the helm now with them feels just ridiculous!"
At last it's been announced that Ross William Wild is my replacement ... I've known for ages (can't really keep a secret in this business!), but didn't want to spoil the news. So good luck Ross! Best wishes, Tone X
— Tony Hadley (@TheTonyHadley) June 1, 2018
Tony Hadley quit the band last year, when he ruled out any future shows with them. Martin Kemp, Gary Kemp, Steve Norman and John Keeble said they would continue as a band.
The former frontman gave Wild his blessing on Twitter, saying: "At last it's been announced that Ross William Wild is my replacement ... I've known for ages (can't really keep a secret in this business!), but didn't want to spoil the news. So good luck Ross! Best wishes, Tone X [sic]".
