Unearthed Spandau Ballet Live Version of ‘Glow’ Surfaces After 43 Years

An exclusive live version of Spandau Ballet’s classic ‘Glow’ resurfaces, giving fans a thrilling glimpse into the band’s early New Romantic era.

A Flashback to Spandau Ballet’s Early Days

If you’re a fan of the New Romantic scene or just love 80s music gems, you’re in for a treat. Spandau Ballet has just shared a rare, previously unheard live version of their track “Glow” — a performance that hasn’t been heard since it aired way back in 1982.

Spandau Ballet guitarist Gary Kemp captured during a live performance

The band, known for defining the stylish and sophisticated sound of the early 80s, is gearing up to release a hefty compilation, Everything Is Now – Vol. 1: 1978-1982, dropping October 10 via Parlophone. To whet fans’ appetites, they unveiled this funk-infused live rendition of “Glow” recorded at the legendary BBC In Concert session at London’s Paris Theatre on May 8, 1982.

The Groove That Defined a Moment

“Glow” wasn’t just any track. Written by guitarist Gary Kemp, it was one of Spandau Ballet’s earliest singles, narrowly missing inclusion on their 1981 debut album Journeys To Glory. It’s a song that blends funk rhythms with the stark, elegant style the band had been cultivating — a perfect snapshot of the Soho nightlife vibe they were so plugged into.

“I sat with my guitar in my bedroom, and with the sound of the Fatback Band and Dr. Buzzard in my head, I ground out a groove and made an attempt to write a song that combined funk with the stark European music that we had created already. The result was ‘Glow’.” — Gary Kemp

You can still feel the energy that Steve Norman brought to the congas and bongos, almost as if he’d been born to play them. Within days, “Glow” was hammering through their rehearsal space near London Bridge, eager to break out and prove Spandau Ballet’s spot at the epicenter of the underground scene.

“Steve, the most natural musician in the band, took to the congas and bongos as though he’d played them in an earlier life, and within a few days we had the song’s staccato groove hammering through our rehearsal room in London Bridge. We were desperate to record it and get it out.” — Gary Kemp

Have a listen to this long-lost live version and let yourself be transported back to that vibrant early 80s moment:

Everything Is Now: The Definitive Early Years Collection

This newly announced nine-disc box set, Everything Is Now – Vol. 1: 1978-1982, is a deep dive into Spandau Ballet’s formative years. It features their first two studio albums plus a treasure trove of previously unreleased tracks, rare live recordings, and demos — including gems like this “Glow” performance.

A 44-page book accompanies the set, packed with original photos by Graham Smith and fresh commentary from the band members themselves. It's a beautifully curated time capsule that any fan of the era or the band will cherish. You can check out the full tracklist on the band’s official site.

The Band’s Reunion Talks and Where They Stand Now

While this release is a cause for celebration, the band’s reunion prospects remain complicated. Frontman Tony Hadley recently shared his thoughts on the possibility of another Spandau Ballet reunion tour, and his reflections are candid.

“I don’t think it would work. I haven’t seen Gary, Martin or John in eight years... We had some good times, but unfortunately there were some bad times as well. That’s just life.” — Tony Hadley

Hadley expressed how he treasures the freedom his solo career affords him — hopping from swing to rock — something he says just isn’t possible within band constraints. His last live appearance with Spandau Ballet was during their 2017 tour, which was cut short when he left due to “circumstances beyond my control.” The rest of the band continued briefly without him until 2019.

Despite the tension, guitarist Gary Kemp hinted earlier this year that bridges might be mending.

Reliving the Glow of a Bygone Era

Listening to this recently surfaced live “Glow” is like finding a time capsule of Spandau Ballet’s vibrant early energy — a funk-driven pulse that set them apart from their contemporaries and helped shape the New Romantic movement. It’s rare to get such a pristine window into a band’s youth, and this live version captures everything that made Spandau Ballet special.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or discovering them anew, this track is a must-listen for anyone who loves the raw, soulful grooves of early 80s music.

FAQ

• What is special about this version of ‘Glow’?
  This live recording from 1982 was never released commercially until now, offering fans a fresh and funkier take on the original 1981 single.
• When was this version originally recorded?
  It was recorded live at the Paris Theatre in London for a BBC In Concert session, broadcast on May 8, 1982.
• What does the ‘Everything Is Now’ box set include?
  The nine-disc collection features Spandau Ballet’s early albums, unreleased tracks, demos, live recordings, and a 44-page photo book with band commentary.
• Is Spandau Ballet planning a reunion tour?
  Frontman Tony Hadley recently expressed doubts about a reunion, citing personal distance and past difficulties, though guitarist Gary Kemp suggested relations may be improving.
• Where can I find more music and memorabilia from Spandau Ballet?
  Apart from official releases, fans can explore vintage posters, albums, and more at dedicated music memorabilia stores.

If you’re inspired to bring the magic of Spandau Ballet’s iconic style into your space, check out our collection of classic album cover posters to celebrate your favorite moments in music history at Architeg Prints. A perfect touch for any true fan’s wall!