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Culture Club  

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Culture Club is one of the most enigmatic and popular bands spawned from the 80s New Romantic movement. With their innovative and bold dress sensibilities and infectiously catchy pop songs the band proved to be immensely popular with the public as well as the press.

Hailing from England, Culture Club consists of frontman/vocalist Boy George, bassist Mikey Craig, guitarist/keyboardist Roy Hay, and drummer Jon Moss. The group were a smashing success in their homeland, but perhaps had an even stronger impact in the United States. The group had 10 singles that made it in to the US Top 40s chart and were considered emblematic of 80s pop in the states. This notion was only crystalized through the incessant exposure they received through MTV. Their video “It’s a Miracle was nominated for two “MTV Video Music Awards”.

The band not only experienced incredible commercial recognition they were highly acclaimed in the critical circles as well . In 1984 the group won Best New Artist at the Grammys, the Brit Award for Best British Group and they picked up Best British Single for “Karma Chameleon”.

Before the formation of Culture Club, Boy George would regularly attend the Blitz Club (a venue frequented by glam rock band Bow Wow Wow). Boy George would sometimes accompany Bow Wow Wow under the moniker Lieutenant Lush. Once this stint ended he formed a band of his own called the Culture Club. The group’s name derived from the idiosyncratic and disparate cultural status of each member. Boy George is an Irish transvestite, Craig is black, Hay is an Anglo-Saxon, and Moss is of Jewish descent. However the band’s diversity proved to be one of their biggest assets. They melded calypso, disco, balladry, reggae and synth-pop into a cohesive and entirely captivating sound. Virgin Records saw the groups potential and became the band’s distributor in the UK while Epic Records handled their album releases in the United States.

“Do You Want to Hurt Me” became the band’s first major hit driving up to the very top of the UK and US charts. It juxtaposed dirge like balladry with uptempo reggae dub and was an undeniably original and accessible piece of music. This hit was soon followed by two additional chart climbing singles “Time (Clock of the Heart) and “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya”. These 3 singles made Culture Club the first group since the Beatles to have 3 Top Ten hits in America from a debut album.

The band followed up their debut with an equally popular sophomore release “Colour by Numbers”. It reached number 1 on the UK charts and Number 2 on the US Charts. The album contained “Karma Chameleon” the group’s biggest hit to date as well as one of the most definitive pop songs of the 80s. The album has been recognized as one of the best albums of the 80s by Rolling Stone magazine and has also been included in the book “10001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die”.

The band saw a decrease in popularity after the release of their 1984 album “Waking Up with the House on Fire”. While this album houses excellent material its commercial and critical success was pale in comparison to the massive impact their first two albums made. Culture Club’s popularity continued to dwindle as the members experienced internal problems within the band and extreme tension place on them from the record label. Their 1986 release “From Luxury to Heartache” proved to be the band’s last album before calling it quits; however, the group did reunite and put out the album “Don’t Mind If I Do” 13 years later. The group has continued to record and tour since this formation, but have done so inconsistently. The band still continues to be a massive influence on up and coming musicians and have inspired highly inventive and likeminded artists such as Antony Hegarty of Antony & The Johnsons.

Live reviews

Back in 2002, Culture Club's Royal Albert Hall performance for the 20th Anniversary Reunion Concert was something really special to experience. Their triple platinum 10 million copy selling second album 'Colour by Numbers' is the album, like most other fans I'm sure, that really got me into their music.

The music is something that I grew up with and loved, with the early 90s pop vibe becoming a popular soundtrack to my life. I had high expectations for the reunion, and was extremely excited to finally get to see them live. When Boy George walked out on stage, I was pleased to see that they had kept the essence of their dress sense and costume, and looked very similar to the pop stars of 20 years ago, if somewhat aged.

The energy that they brought was youthful, and at points it was easy to forget that their glory days had passed. Some of the vocals were a little shaky, but I must say, 'Do you really want to hurt me' was fantastic with the entire venue singing along and getting really involved. The band really encouraged this, holding out microphones and giving us gaps in the melody to fill in.

Everyone at the concert appeared to be thoroughly enjoying the show. After the band initially disbanded, many people felt disappointed that they hadn't seen the infamous act, and now that there is a chance to revisit the 80s and early 90s with their next reunion tour, I really think that it is a once in a lifetime opportunity that probably won't arise again. You may hear negative reviews about their vocals, but I thought that they did remarkably well, and sounded extremely similar to the tracks from yesteryear. The performance was outstanding, and I don't believe that one member of that audience went home disappointed that night.

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Friday 8th July. Au-Rene Theatre, Fort Lauderdale. Culture Club. After cancelling their UK tour 18 months ago when we had tickets for the Brighton show we were excited to see that Boy George and the guys were playing in Fort Lauderdale when me and Mrs W were there.

The Au-Rene is a large theatre in the style of the Royal Opera House or Festival Hall with boxes at the side. It’s an all seater but certainly the people in the front section of the stalls were up dancing for most of the set and its testament to the band they generated enough atmosphere to keep this going for the most part. All seated gigs are always more difficult to get the crowd going but there was no problem here tonight.

Resplendent in the black and white, the tamest of his three suits tonight with matching hats, Boy George enters stage left and we’re straight into ‘Church of the Poison Mind’. What follows is about 90 minutes of 80s pop nostalgia. None of the band look like they’ve aged at all and supported by a great horn section, backing singers and additional guitarist we are treated to all the hits and more.

They’re all there, Victims, Time, Hurt me, Karma Chameleon and The Crying Game. For the last two songs of the encore we leave our seats and rush down to the front for Bowie’s ‘Starman’ and a rocking good version of Bang a Gong (Get in On) with Boy George boogieing all decked out in Rainbow suit. It’s nice to see the voice is still strong and he’s ably supported by Messrs Moss, Hay and Craig.

A top evening and good to see they haven’t become a parody of themselves and can still deliver the goods.

The show was amazing. It was really great seeing Boy George and hearing their classic songs. It did not disappoint. He really connected well with the fans. At one point, a young boy and his mother brought flowers up to the stage and George happily accepted them even though he doesn’t like flowers. I connected with the boy and his mother later and found out that he had been battling a life changing illness and credits Boy George and Culture Club with helping him to cope and go thru treatment. When George found this out after the show, he sent his security to locate the boy and his mother and brought them backstage where I got a chance to talk to them and see Boy George at his best as he greeted them and took pictures and even accepted and had a heart felt letter the boy had written read to him. A very emotional moment. I had the pleasure of going backstage and seeing George before and after the show. He is such genuine performer who absolutely love his fans. If you get the opportunity, you really must go to a show.

Reuben Skipper

The evening began with THE THOMPSON TWINS' Tom Bailey taking WOLF TRAP back into the '80s, to the second (2nd) British music explosion in America ... . Next, the B-52s raised the crowd to a simmering level by appearing in semblances of their '80s costumes and performing their hits. Eventually, WOLF TRAP reached a boiling point when the B-52s played "Love Shack" almost bringing the entire audience to its feet! Afterwards, the "piece de resistance", BOY GEORGE and CULTURE CLUB arrived on stage and had the crowd standing in awe ... . This 1980's, British explosion group competed neck and neck with MADONNA and MICHAEL JACKSON! Furthermore, New York City's "Village" launched a "Boy George for President" campaign after the release of "The War Song". Mr O'Dowd may have gained some weight and lost a little bit of hair, but the voice, humor, and sensitivity of Boy George, 1980's, were still intact! CULTURE CLUB gave WOLF TRAP a night to remember and reminded Us of Our true loves in the 1980's! LIVE LONG AND PROSPER!

80's icons Culture Club have had a career that has been followed equally by success and controversy. With lead singer Boy George being known prolifically as one of outrageous behaviour, this is something that initially drew people to the eccentricity of Culture Club. They also have an incredibly solid discography of alt-pop that is known around the globe so it is no wonder that following George's freedom from incarceration the group would reform.

Performing stronger than ever, all four musicians have a fantastic rapport onstage and clearly enjoy making music together. They have a devout following who have stuck with them throughout their career as well as having amassed new fans for classics such as 'Karma Chameleon' which is sang back in deafening force tonight. The real highlight though is 80s power ballad 'Do You Really Want To Hurt Me?' which is surprisingly balladic and anthemic all at once. A rather unusual formula to crack but if there is anything Culture Club knows well, it is the unusual.

The concert with Thompson Twins, Culture Club and B52s was fun. I like TT but they had technically issues which was unfortunate and stopped the momentum. B52s was amazing. They got the audience going and sang most of their popular songs. Culture Club was my least favorite of the 3. The group I was with all commented that the musicians were great but that it’s sounding more like a Vegas lounge act. They did some songs from other artists that were well done. We noticed MANY people leaving during Culture Club. Boy George made comments about not enough people being there and that they would come back with different artists to fill the arena. The other artists weren’t the problem. They were the best part. I’ve been to several 80’s combination concerts and have loved them. This one would be towards the bottom of my list. Would liked to have heard more from THompson Twins.

The show was GREAT. My sister and I had front row seats and the VIP Meet and Greet. Boy George was so down to earth and just wonderful. The warmth of his hug was like that of and old friend you hadn't seem in a while. I am sure every fan feels a special connection to him, I am not exception. There were many moments throughout the show in which I felt we made eye contact. It was like we were the only two in that stadium. Every wave, wink, smile, or brief comment seemed so personal and directed at me. I know that I was just another face in the crowd, but it was the little things that made me feel special. John Themis, thanks for being patient with my sister and me as we fumbled with the cell phone. You were so kind to stop and take a picture with me. Dee Dee, your waves and smiles really warmed my heart. Culture Club, YOU ROCk.

Your #1 South Georgia Fan (I love y'all)

What a great night!

The Greek is always a special place to see a concert under the stars and this night was no exception.

We expected just to see Culture Club but were treated to an introduction of the band by Caitlyn Jenner who received applause and a standing ovation.

The intro was followed by the first hit of the night "Church of The Poison Mind" and George's own observation that with all the change going on in the world it is a special time.

The evening went on without a hitch, the set a mix of CC classics (all the hits), covers and new songs. The energy was great. Everything blended pretty effortlessly, the band sounded great – complete with backup sings and brass section – with George sounding great. I'm amazed that they powered through the 20-song set.

If you get a chance to catch this tour take it, you will be entertained.

I'm 57 and been to a lot of concerts and even seen Culture Club 25 odd years ago. But last night was AMAZING. The love in the arena for them was AMAZING. When he came on everyone got up and never sat down again. BOY GEORGE was AMAZING and the show was pure delight. He sang and the introductions to songs were fabulous. His songs for Bowie TRex and George Michael were fantastic tributes. My 18 year old daughter bought me surprise tickets and with my Boy George top on that she bought me there I was in heaven. When he did Victims all the phones went on and it looked like stars. The ending was brilliant and they were. Karma Chameleon at the end fantastic. Love Culture Club and Boy George simply glorious. Absolutely fantastic concert. Will definetly hope to see again. Wembley was full of love for a boy from eltham. Boy George I Love You.

I give this concert or may I say an outstanding performance by Boy George and Culture Club an A+.

They started off with a tribute to one of Boy Georges' biggest influences David Bowie. From there is just got better all night. I had a pretty good seat and they interacted with the audience all night long. They played all their hits and a few new ones. I loved the fact they came back for a last encore(one last song) and ended up playing like 4 more songs.I would recommend any lover of 80's music to see them in the USA before they go across the Atlantic to finish the tour. George's voice sounds as good as ever and he is just a great showman. Not to mention they have a great backing entourage.About 15 musicians and singers onstage.Not one singer or musician missed a beat. A great production.

Musiklvr Steve

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Reformed chart toppers Culture Club will tour Australia in June, but will it be their final tour?

SIXTEEN years after they last came our way, Boy George and Culture Club will play June concerts in Australia as part of what could be their final world tour.

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CHART topping band Culture Club will tour Australia in June.

It will be their first full national tour since 2000, with sources suggesting it might also be their final world tour as a band.

The original line-up — Boy George, Jon Moss, Roy Hay and Mikey Craig — will kick off their world tour in Perth on June 8 at HBF Stadium.

They then play Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne on June 10, the Hordern in Sydney on June 11 and Brisbane Riverstage on June 14.

The tour will not go to Adelaide.

Tickets go on sale 9am next Thursday April 14.

The reformed Melbourne ’80s band Kids in the Kitchen will open for Culture Club at each show — they scored hits with Change in Mood, Shine, Something That You Said, Bitter Desire and Current Stand.

In Melbourne Dannii Minogue will play her first hometown show since 1998 where she played at the Mushroom 25th anniversary concert at the MCG.

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The Sydney and Brisbane shows will also feature ABBA cover band Bjorn Again.

Culture Club played a New Year’s Eve show in Sydney in 2011, but drummer Jon Moss was ill and did not perform with the band.

Since reforming in 2014 Culture Club have recorded a new album called Tribes , which has yet to be released.

The recording was captured on a documentary screened in the UK last year, Boy George and Culture Club: From Karma to Calamity .

Their last album was 1999’s Don’t Mind If I Do .

The band have sold over 50 million records, with hits including Do You Really Want to Hurt Me?, Victims, Karma Chameleon, Move Away, It’s a Miracle, Miss Me Blind, Time (Clock of the Heart), I’ll Tumble 4 Ya, Church of the Poison Mind, The War Song and Love is Love.

In 1984 when the band didn’t include Adelaide on their first Australian tour, demand saw Boy George fly to South Australia to make a public appearance to placate fans.

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She’s one of the most famous people on the planet – but you’d never guess it was her from these latest pictures.

The American singer was seen screaming while running offstage in a bid to avoid the $250,000 fine.

A legendary American rocker has marked the end of his Australian concerts with a secret midnight gig at a Brisbane bar.

Culture Club Have Announced a 2023 Greatest Hits Australian Tour

By Alex Gallagher

Pop veterans Culture Club have announced they’ll return to Australia in September for a greatest hits tour. Boy George and co – guitarist Roy Hay and bassist Mikey Craig – will be performing favourites from across their back catalogue, joined by Berlin (of ‘Take My Breath Away’ fame).

The tour will kick off Tuesday, 5th September at Perth’s RAC Arena, before shows at Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena and Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena on Friday, 8th and Saturday, 9th September respectively. The tour will continue with a show at Adelaide Entertainment Centre on Monday, 11th September before wrapping up on Thursday, 14th September at Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Tickets are on sale Friday, 21st April at 10am local time.

Culture Club – ‘Karma Chameleon’

Culture Club were frequent visitors to Australia in the mid-2010s, touring three times between June 2016 and late 2017. However, they’ve not toured the country since then, with the upcoming shows marking their first run of Australian dates in almost six years.

Berlin were similarly last here in 2016. Since then, the Los Angeles new wave group have released two albums: 2019’s Transcendance and 2020’s Strings Attached , which featured new orchestral arrangements of .

“We are over the moon to be joining Culture Club on this tour,” Berlin frontwoman Terri Nunn said of the upcoming shows in a statement. “We absolutely love Australia and its amazing people. Can’t wait to see you!”

Culture Club 2023 Australian Tour

with Berlin

• Tuesday, 5th September – RAC Arena, Perth
• Friday, 8th September – Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney
• Saturday, 9th September – Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
• Monday, 11th September – Adelaide Entertainment Centre, Adelaide
• Thursday, 14th September – Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane

Tickets on sale Friday, 21st April.

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Review: Culture Club at RAC Arena

This is one place I never thought I’d end up – much less enjoy. When Culture Club had their first smash hit – Do You Really Want To Hurt Me – in 1982, I was a 16 year old Iron Maiden-obsessed headbanger and my only thought was “WTF?!”

It took years to realise not only how irresistible these songs are, but also how revolutionary and brave Boy George was. In much the same way as David Bowie’s bisexuality-flaunting androgyny of twenty years prior, George’s open homosexuality and natural flamboyant style was a beacon for like-minded ‘80s kids dreaming of a more inclusive world.

Forty years later there have been enough years of drug busts and breakups and makeups and bust-ups and fuckups to sell a zillion gossip rags, but here we are – three quarters of the original band reformed and sounding fantastic.

Terri Nunn’s Berlin has had a not dissimilar rocky road (less scandalous, but equally acrimonious at times) but now founding member Jon Crawford – “the father of the band” – and golden period guitarist/synth player David Diamond are back in the fold, having merged with Nunn’s own version of Berlin a few years ago. They bring not only authenticity and chops, but Diamond’s priceless gleeful stage charisma.

The band are razor sharp and smokin’ hot – as they should be, having come directly from the States after a run of 26 or so shows supporting Culture Club. No cobwebs need blowing off here.

Masquerade is first, then demi-classic No More Words . Nunn is in fine voice and still sporting a two-tone hairdo (though how much of it is wig or extensions is debatable) and the interplay of the guitarists a major focal and aural point – Diamond looks like he’s having the time of his life, while Carlton Bost looks like he took a wrong turn on the way to the Napalm Death gig happening at the same time down the road, and provides much of the riff-ful heft that elevates Berlin above any old pop band.

The Metro harkens back to 1982’s Pleasure Victim album, when Nunn had rejoined the band after trying her hand as an actress. She auditioned for the part of Princess Leia in Star Wars in the late ‘70s, and even posed nude for Penthouse aged 15 under a pseudonym, but Berlin was always where she was meant to be. The song’s ice-cold synths on record take on new life with the full band and this is where Berlin have always excelled – with the interplay of new wave synth pop and crunchy guitar riffs.

“We’re celebrating 46 years of Berlin!” she reminds us. “We wrote a lot about dating back then… this is a song about how my man makes me feel on a date now!” Animal is a high-BPM offering from 2013, the only newish track they play tonight.

Like Flames is dedicated to the men and women of the military, including Nunn’s medic son Kenny, and Take My Breath Away is as sublimely beautiful as ever – only the slightest hint of gravel on her voice indicating the passing of the years or the gruelling tour schedule she’s been on.

Dancing In Berlin is a party, with much of the crowd on their feet and moving even more excitedly when Nunn wanders through the crowd, still singing, sparking a thousand Insta photos and videos.

Nunn announces that “we wanna pay tribute to our favourite Australian band – and this is my favourite religious song!” Yes, it’s AC/DC’s Highway To Hell , played pretty straight and rocking hard. From there they segue into the notorious synth raunch of Sex (I’m A…) , a female empowerment manifesto and classic for the ages which never fails to excite and titillate, not least of which in the interplay between Crawford and Nunn. Just fantastic

Culture Club

Culture Club now features original members Boy George, bass player Mikey Craig and guitarist, keyboardist Roy Hay, augmented to a ten-strong band including drummer Meryl-Ann Evanson, multiple backing singers, and Perth’s own harmonica blowing legend Chelsea Gibson, who appeared on The Voice , with the show's judge George famously offering her a job then and there.

Drummer Jon Moss isn’t involved any more – his tempestuous relationship with former partner George and, by extension, his place in the band, has been fraught for many years, and in 2021 he officially left the band.

The show opens with a funky and soulful take on The Stones’ Sympathy For The Devil, before running through most of the big hits, including a couple of George’s solo offerings.

Having just come from the hot United States, “I’m happy to be here where it’s like home – wet and cold,” George quips before the soulful groove of I’ll Tumble 4 Ya , the samba groove getting the crowd up and waving their hands in the air like they just don’t care.

A bass malfunction temporarily slows things down, with George – arty Picasso-like jacket, hip hand-woven bowl hat – filling the time with a little jazz vocal improv, then it’s straight into Move Away with good humour and affectionate camaraderie between the band members. In fact, George isn’t only in wonderful voice tonight, he’s charismatic and obviously positive of mood, his smile positively glowing – a far cry from his cocaine diva days of yore.

Melodrama features another Voice alumni, Vangelis Polydorou, whilst elsewhere Essex girl Roxy Yarnold steps in for duets, also beaming a radiant smile.

“You must like reggae music, or you wouldn’t be at a Culture Club concert,” George squeals as they launch his first solo hit, a reggae-fied cover of Bread’s Everything I Own . Here’s what I now appreciate about this band – the incredible melting pot of musical styles which make up their sound – reggae, soul, funk, R&B, gospel, pop, rock. The middle breakdown features a crowd singalong, there’s great harmonica and sax solos, and George even livestreams it from the stage as they hit an extended dance hall dub groove.

“I recently had my 62nd birthday,” he tells us in mock horror, “thank God for rock and roll – and foundation!”

Let It Go sees a sea of phone lights twinkling around the Arena, and they stay on for the first half of Do You Really Want To Hurt Me , redrawn as a broken hearted torch song before the more familiar reggae pop beat comes to the fore.

By the time Angel Of Mercy and Victims have come and gone George jokes “I heard you were a rowdy lot here in Perth” and he has a point – the crowd have got to their feet a few times, but only for a song at a time (not helped by the zealous Arena staff policing anyone who dares to make the slightest move forwards from their allocated seats), and whilst obviously enjoying themselves and overwhelmingly positive, they are undoubtedly a rainy Tuesday night mellow kinda crowd. It’s always hard to stir up atmosphere in such a huge room, especially in ‘intimate’ mode with curtains drawn around the upper tier of seats, but from the floor the vibe feels very good, positive and warm.

That’s The Way (I’m Only Trying To Help You) leads into the good time gospel groove of Church Of The Poison Mind , augmented with a little of Wham’s I’m Your Man . Finally, the crowd are up and dancing again. Time (Clock Of The Heart) and Miss Me Blind close out the main set, before the encore starts with T-Rex’s Bang A Gong (Get It On) , George now sporting yellow polkadots and a matching banana yellow bowler-type hat. The entire band are having a blow on this cover, looking for all the world like it’s the time of their life, and George handles the band intros, finishing self deprecatingly with “I’m Boy George – and I created myself from cardboard and glitter.”

On their American tour Terri Nunn often joined Culture Club to duet on the encore tracks, but perhaps that hint of gravel was sign she should rest her voice for the rest of the Aussie tour.

The last track is, of course, Karma Chameleon, a harmonica-drenched good vibe mainline hit of pure sugar pop, and a gloriously fab way to round out an acutely enjoyable night.

Frankly, sixteen-year-old me would be disgusted, but hand on heart – both bands were fantastic, and shouldn’t be missed next time they’re playing near you.

SHANE PINNEGAR

Photos by Linda Dunjey

Review provided courtesy of 100% Rock Magazine

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VIDEO : Culture Club announce Australian tour dates

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Boy George spoke to ABC NEWS about the upcoming arena shows. He said they will feature Culture Club's classic hits, covers and new material.

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LIVE REVIEW: Culture Club with Berlin – RAC Arena Perth – September 5th 2023

6 September 2023 The Rockpit

Last time Culture Club was in Perth Boy George took to social media to advise us to (good naturedly I’m sure) stick to reviewing Iron Maiden concerts. Well they’re back tonight at the RAC Arena in Perth to kick off their Australian Tour after wowing America in the company of tonight’s opening act Berlin. And so Round Two begins… It may be a wet night in Perth but it’s warm inside the Arena as a predominantly female crowd of a certain age gather to welcome them back and relive The Hits … and more…

Berlin are a great addition to the bill and a great opening act for tonight hailing from that time in the 80’s where music was such a part of life and bands like Berlin defied genre labeling that is so common these days. Their mix of edgy Pop, Rock and Electronica has aged rather well and Terri Nunn has lost none of her power either as a performer or a vocalist. The band look happy to be here despite the rain and treat us to a set without any filler. Sure we’d have loved that headline tour that almost eventuated a while back but in a nine song set they pack so much in.

All the classics are included of course, and Terri gets the crowd on side from the off letting us know how friendly us Aussies are, even belting out a rocking cover of AC/DC’s ‘Highway to Hell’ to put the icing on the cake. It’s a set that sees Terri come out into the crowd resplendent in her red outfit, and it goes down a storm. Of  course whilst ‘Take My Breath Away’ might be the song everyone wants to hear it’s great to see the crowd singing along to the likes of ‘No More Words’, ‘Animal’ and of course closer ‘Sex’ (I’m a…)’ and with a band as tight as this they are tonight the rest of Australia just better get there early!

And then it’s time for Culture Club…

Last time around back in pre-Covid 2017 we were treated to The Stones’ ‘Can’t Always Get What You Want’ mid set, and tonight opens with a rather cool take on an even more revered Stones song ‘Sympathy For the Devil’. As the band takes to the stage on a rather nicely lit set full of the musicians and backing singers and a wonderfully unobtrusive light show that make up Culture Club 2023, the crowd is more than ready to roll back the years. It’s a great way to open the set and appreciated by the impressive crowd. Boy George looks comfortable in his quirky oversized designer jacket and tall red hat (what does one call such a hat?) and is charming from the off.

We’re treated to a few oldies that sound comfortable in their new arrangements with plenty of funk and sax in the mix. ‘It’s A Miracle’ and ‘I’ll Tumble 4 Ya’ get the crowd to their feet and despite a few early bass issues which result in a short interlude where we are threatened with jokes, we get an impromptu acapella scat by the man in the hat of what might just turn out to be a new song.

There’s an introduction to two members of the band with a Voice connection, one from home and one from the UK who do a great job throughout taking harmonies and even duets with Boy on ‘Melodrama’, which sounds huge tonight and is a real highlight. We’re asked if we like Reggae, of course we like Reggae,! We all know it’s a huge part of the Culture Club sound but tonight reveals all of the facets of the band’s make-up from Pop and Soul to even a little soft rock at times.

There’s a good few slower numbers in the first part of the set that defies the Pop image of the 80’s and shows a real eclecticism. Boy George may be 62 but the cover of the immortal Bread classic ‘Everything I Own’ sees him in a new light, it’s a lovely arrangement and George films himself from the stage (I initially thought he had his camera out to take a call!) . So whilst ‘Do You Really Want to Hurt Me’ which comes early has a few more on their feet it’s the slower treatment starting with just voice and its slower and moodier approach that really elevates the song. It’s moments like that with the crowd finishing the song.

‘Angel of Mercy’ is another worth waiting for and a song only played around 20 times before tonight – it’s got a wonderful 60’s film soundtrack vibe and a wonderful sax break. ‘Kiss Across the Ocean’ leads to the first of the band introductions before George asks if there are any mums in tonight, before ‘That’s The Way (I’m Only Trying to Help You)’ really hit the spot. Of course next we’re asked if there are any Dads in the crowd tonight? And it’s time to really ramp things up as ‘Church of the Poison Mind’ gets everyone to their feet. Let the real dancing begin! It’s a stomper, with the whole arena seemingly clapping and singing along.

The main set closes with two fan favourites ‘Time’ which sees the crowd almost jump out of their seats with joy, and an impressive rendition of ‘Miss Me Blind’ which have gone down a storm in the U.S.

The encores of course take it to another level entirely. As a huge fan of all things 70’s Glam it’s great to see the band come out and play ‘Get It On’ by T-Rex (No not ‘Bang a Gong’ that was the censored U.S. title) though I was a little disappointed not to hear their version of Bowie’s ‘Starman’. And how could they close? Surely not with the all in dance party of ‘Karma Chameleon’? Well of course it is. And there’s a few thousand more than happy fans dancing everywhere, maybe even dancing all the way home?

For the opening night of the Australian Tour it really has been something to behold with both bands hitting the ground running. If you like good music you could do worse then hop on this tour when it hits town starting with Sydney on Friday.  Well either that or wait for the next time Iron Maiden is in town? George?…

With thanks to Menard PR and TEG Live for the media access

Photos by Hunter Brothers Media

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LIVE REVIEW: Culture Club – Perth, December 9th 2017

Sometimes you just need some nostalgia, and memories of care free days, and for me that’s the sounds of the 80’s and the era of the New Romantics, and synthesisers. So, when this line up […]

[Review] Culture Club @ Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne 09/09/2023

Review By Cassandra Hale

It was a sight fit for a King or a Queen if you are that way inclined, as I made my way to Rod Laver Arena for a night of 80’s inspired tunes.  Many decked out in full  Culture  Club  regalia, some just happy in their own skin, and if that meant hairy legs with high heels, so be it.  If you asked me to describe the devoted fans flocking in my answer would be extravagantly colourful!

Celebrating 47 years as a band, we were honoured to have Berlin opening the nights proceedings. It was a huge bucket list tick for me to see them after having their faces grace my wall as a teenager. From the get-go they were red hot, Terri Nunn looking smashing in a red layered corset arrangement showing she still had the goods. Opening with Masquerade they were off and running, well maybe not running as Terri had ‘done a hami’ when she ventured too deep in the splits at a previous show. But you get my drift, No More Words had me up and about as it was a personal favourite and it seemed I was not alone.  The screens behind the band flashing with pictures and film clips for the duration of the set as the worked their way through Metro and Animal . Another fan favourite was Dancing In Berlin, this saw Terri take to the crowd for a dance, what a wonderful and welcome surprise getting such an up-close experience. Dancing with Terri as she nabs your mobile phone and makes it a ‘live in the moment’ experience for one lucky fan was such a fun element to the set.

Touching on her mother’s passing and the song she wrote about her experience was Transcendance , what a beautiful song and the big screens radiated family photos of her mum over her life. The 2019 album of the same name is a real belter and one I suggest you check out.  It was time for the one every person in Rod Laver was waiting for, made famous by Top Gun back in 1986, Take My Breath Away . Starting with a surreal a cappella intro Berlin literally did take our breath away with this stunning rendition of the mega hit. Terri still hitting the high notes with ease and replicating the classic to perfection, accompanied on vocals by Dave Diamond who was sensational all night.

A ripping cover of their favourite Aussie band AC/DC’s Highway To Hell saw Rod Laver come to life as the punters sang with appreciation. Did they do it justice, a big hell yes, they were rocking it from start to finish, Terri’s big voice never wavering. Sex saw out the set and I was left completely satisfied; I just hope they make the trip down under again, they will be welcomed with open arms.

Calling Australia his second home it was no surprise that we were being spoilt with another live concert by  Boy George  and  Culture  Club . The buzz was electric as the lights went down, screaming fans waiting for their first glimpse of their 80’s idols, Rod Laver erupted as they took to the stage.  Looking fabulous in his trademark hat and ensemble of blue, black and white Picasso-ish jacket Boy George  wowed us right from the start, add to this  Mickey and Roy  and you have  Culture  Club  in all their glory. Opening with a cheeky cover of Sympathy For The Devil , and then the iconic  It’s A Miracle , it was pure joy for the fans, immediately swept up in memories that are evoked by  Culture  Club’s  amazing music. I’ll Tumble 4   Ya,  and  Move Away  all sublime with some lovely images flooding the screen from film clips and photos from across the years.

Featuring in  Culture  Club’s  last three show was another cover and one that Boy George has certainly put his stamp on, Everything I Own , it had the fans singing along as the coloured lights lit up the arena. Eyeliner Voodoo was a terrific addition, George talking of his early days when he was the only one who wore eyeliner, “and look at you now!”  he chuckled. Then they backed it up with one of  Culture  Club’s  biggest hits,  Do You Really Want To Hurt Me .  A song that the boys didn’t want to put out as a single but lucky for them the record label had other ideas and it sent them flying to stardom with number ones all over the world.  

The musicians and backup singers all amazing and with backing vocalist Roxy Yarnold  celebrating her birthday Boy George  dedicated That’s The Way from the iconic Colour By Numbers to her. They sang in tandem with Roxy hitting all the high notes with gusto, what a talent she is. The band faultless all night bringing endless energy and  Boy George  had his usual free spirit shining. You could feel the love and devotion so many have for  Boy George , a man who has walked the hard road to be accepted so in turn others can feel free to express themselves openly. George’s 1000 kilowatt smile was infectious, he was so happy to be performing with his friends for life Roy and Mikey, with lots of cheeky banter and laughter constantly ringing out.

Letting Things Go, Angel Of Mercy and Melodrama were all well received the later being co written with Vangelis Polydorou who strutted the stage in a cloud of glitter and platform boots all night. Being wrangled by Boy George from the UK version of The Voice he had the pipes of an angel and was a fabulous addition to the band.  It was then time to ramp up the hits with Church Of The Poison Mind which had a delicious mash up of Wham!’s I’m your Man dropped straight in the middle, Time and Miss Me Blind the perfect trifecta to see out the set. We all knew there would be just a few more and waited patiently with a bit of cheering and feet stomping to get George’s attention.

Culture Club return with Boy George  now sporting a yellow hat, and polka dot shirt in black and yellow to match, ever the fashionista!   Get It On opened the encore and this was one that Culture Club have refined to suit their sound and is always a welcome addition to the set list.

As  Roy  took to the keyboard I knew  Victims  would be next, it is my personal favourite and a song that I hold very close to my heart. I held back tears as  Boy George  delivered this beautiful song, a definite standout for me. The booming drums were an absolute showstopper, the sound resonating around the arena having a huge impact on all.  Karma Chameleon  was the one we were all waiting for, the crowd were singing and dancing not wanting it to end, but they certainly had made enough memories in this one evening to last a lifetime.  

Culture  Club  really is the gift that keeps on giving, with every tour we get to unwrap another layer. Hopefully they will be back again, it really would be the best present one could ask for.

Culture Club Encore Tour at Sidney Myer Music Bowl on Sunday 11 December 2016. Culture Club headlined the show after support bands Wa Wa Nee, Pseudo Echo, Eurogliders and Real Life performed their sets. Photo Ros O'Gorman

Boy George Australian Dates Rescheduled

by Paul Cashmere on March 2, 2022

Boy George has bumped back his Fantabulosa tour dates by a year. The March 2022 shows in Melbourne and Sydney are now happening in March 2023.

Boy George said, “Of course this is disappointing as I was very much looking forward to getting back to Australia and working with these incredible Australian artists to bring FANTABULOSA to life, but it seems the universe had other plans! However, we are even more determined to bring the show to Australia next year and hope you will join the celebration!”

Fantabulousa features Courtney Act and Odette with a live band with Musical Direction by Andrew Worboys and Show Direction by Cameron Mitchell.

FANTABULOSA RESCHEDULED AUSTRALIAN TOUR DATES 2023

Melbourne – Plenary, Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre Saturday 11 March 2023

Sydney – Darling Harbour Theatre, ICC Sydney Saturday 18 March 2023

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Tagged as: 80s , Boy George , Culture Club , pop , UK

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Kendrick Lamar Claims Drake Sent a Cease and Desist to Stop "Like That" Diss From Dropping

K.Dot has responded to Drake's "Push Ups" with a new diss titled song "Euphoria."

View this video on YouTube

Kendrick Lamar ’s response to Drake , called “Euphoria,” is here.

Kendrick Lamar on "Euphoria" 😭 “I hate the way that you walk, way that you talk, I hate the way that you dress.” pic.twitter.com/oV4YfzwGS1 — Complex Music (@ComplexMusic) April 30, 2024

The 6-minute record sees K.Dot appear to accuse Drizzy of sending a cease and desist to prevent “Like That” from releasing. He also nods to Drake's 2015 Meek Mill-dissing, Grammy-nominated "Back to Back."

“Try cease and desist on the ‘Like That’ record / Oh, what? You ain't like that record / ‘Back to Back,’ I like that record / I'm gonna get back to that for the record."

Did Kendrick’s team have the cease & desist sent to @Drake ? 🤔 Episode 263 available now on Youtube watch here: https://t.co/dOhXjC6yI2 pic.twitter.com/jpVacjKTaP — New Rory & MAL (@newrorynmal) April 27, 2024

Kung Fu Kenny’s claims follow news that the 6 God allegedly sent a cease and desist to French Montana back in 2021, per Rick Ross’ diss track, “Champagne Moments."

“I unfollowed you, n***a, 'cause you sent the motherfuckin' cease-and-desist to French Montana, n***a.”

Though Drake's motivations are unknown, fans speculated it was for the song “Splash Brothers,” which was slated to be included on French’s 2021 project, They Got Amnesia .

"Euphoria" is Lamar's response to Drake's latest diss record, "Push Ups," which sees the For All the Dogs rapper call out Kendrick, Future, and Metro Boomin. Around the same time, Rick Ross put himself in the mix by releasing "Champagne Moments." After releasing "Push Ups," Drake also shared a second diss track aimed at Kendrick that featured AI verse from Snoop Dogg and the late 2Pac . The track, which was titled "Taylor Made," was eventually removed due to the unauthorized AI use of Pac and Snoop's voices. This entire feud was ignited by Lamar's verse on "Like That," which has since become his longest-running No. 1 record to date.

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