Throwback Thursday/FunFunFun Fest Artist: Gary Numan

35 years ago on this day, the incomparable Gary Numan released his seminal album, The Pleasure Principle, in the United States.  Driven by singles such as “Complex” (which hit #6 in the UK) and his signature song “Cars” (#1 UK, #9 US), Gary Numan and The Pleasure Principle were massively important to synth driven music becoming not only an acceptable, but even preferred genre in popular music during the ’80s.  35 years later, Numan is still sharing his music with the world, and will be doing so live at this year’s Fun Fun Fun Fest.

To call Gary Numan one of the most influential popular musicians of all-time isn’t an overstatement.  A wide range of artists: David Bowie, Prince, Afrika Bambaataa, Nine Inch Nails, along with many others, have claimed to be inspired by his work.  His image and sound was cold, stoic, and robotic, and listeners were mesmerized.  Gary Numan was so vastly different from everyone, which is often a recipe for failure, but his genius allowed him to package his message to be appreciated by massive amounts of people.  Between his album with Tubeway Army, Replicas, and The Pleasure Principle, 1979 was the year of Gary Numan.  Popularity, innovation, acclaim, and a culture shock that has resonated to this day were all his.  Gary Numan may indeed be the most legendary musician at this year’s Fun Fun Fun Fest.

Numan will be supporting Nas on the blue stage on Saturday, November 8th.  Coog Radio will be organizing ticket giveaways during the weeks leading up to the festival, so stay engaged!  And stay tuned for more Meet the Artists posts covering the outstanding lineup!

Watch the classic video for Numan’s “Cars”:

Watch an excellent live version of “Are ‘Friends’ Electric?” in Tel Aviv this past February:

The Fun Fun Fun Festival will take place in Austin, Texas from November 7th- 9th. Tickets are on sale now at funfunfunfest.com. Coog Radio will be giving away 14 pairs of 3-day passes so keep a look out!

By Travis Shosa