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Scottish rock band that became global icons in the 1980s, renowned for their atmospheric sound, anthemic choruses, and charismatic frontman Jim Kerr.Formed in Glasgow in 1977 by childhood friends Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill (guitar).Achieved major international success in the mid-1980s, particularly with the soundtrack hit 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' from 'The Breakfast Club'.Known for albums like 'New Gold Dream (81-82-83-84)', 'Sparkle in the Rain', and the chart-topping 'Once Upon a Time'.Core members included Mick MacNeil (keyboards, left 1990), Derek Forbes (bass, left 1985, returned intermittently), Brian McGee (drums, left 1981), and Mel Gaynor (drums, joined 1982, left 1998, returned intermittently).The band continues to record and tour actively.

• Originally formed under the name 'Johnny & the Self-Abusers', releasing one single before changing their name to Simple Minds.
• Despite becoming their biggest US hit and signature song, 'Don't You (Forget About Me)' was initially rejected by the band when offered by the film's producers. They recorded it reluctantly and it propelled them to superstardom.
• Frontman Jim Kerr was married to The Pretenders' lead singer Chrissie Hynde from 1984 to 1990.
• The band underwent significant lineup changes in the late 1980s and early 1990s, with keyboardist Mick MacNeil departing in 1990, marking the end of the classic lineup era.
• Demonstrating remarkable longevity, Simple Minds experienced a significant critical and commercial resurgence in the 2010s and 2020s with well-received albums like 'Big Music' (2014) and 'Direction of the Heart' (2022), and extensive global touring.