The Romantics, hailing from Detroit, Michigan, are a power pop and new wave band that found their stride in the late 1970s and early 1980s with their catchy hooks and energetic performances. Formed in 1977 by lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist Wally Palmar, lead guitarist and vocalist Mike Skill, bassist and backing vocalist Rich Cole, and drummer and backing vocalist Jimmy Marinos, the band's self-titled debut album, "The Romantics" (1980), introduced their signature blend of rock 'n' roll tinged with punk and pop influences. Their follow-up albums, "National Breakout" (1980) and "Strictly Personal" (1981), continued to build their fanbase with relentless touring and a keen sense for anthemic tunes.
The Romantics' breakthrough came with the release of the infectious single "What I Like About You" from their debut album, which became a staple on both the radio and in pop culture, despite its initial modest chart performance. However, it was their 1983 album "In Heat" that catapulted them to mainstream success, with singles like "Talking in Your Sleep" and "One in a Million" making significant impacts on the charts. As members came and went, the band's sound evolved, as evidenced by albums such as "Rhythm Romance" (1985), showcasing a more polished approach that merged with the era's pop sensibilities. The Romantics' energetic sound and memorable songwriting have left an indelible mark on the power pop genre, and their music continues to resonate with fans through re-releases and digital editions, like the "What I Like About You (Digital 45)" collection.
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