The Cure: Pioneers of Gothic Rock and New Wave

The Cure is an iconic English rock band formed in Crawley, West Sussex, in 1976. Renowned as pioneers of gothic rock and major figures in the new wave and post-punk movements, they are celebrated for their distinctive melancholic sound, Robert Smith's unique vocals and appearance, introspective lyrics, and their significant influence on alternative music.Founded by school friends Robert Smith (vocals, guitar), Michael Dempsey (bass), and Lol Tolhurst (drums).Achieved early UK success with singles like 'Boys Don't Cry' and albums 'Three Imaginary Boys' (1979) and 'Seventeen Seconds' (1980).Defined gothic rock with the dark trilogy: 'Faith' (1981), 'Pornography' (1982), and 'The Head on the Door' (1985).Achieved global mainstream success with the pop-oriented album 'Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me' (1987) and the critically acclaimed masterpiece 'Disintegration' (1989).Experienced numerous lineup changes; Robert Smith remains the sole constant member and primary songwriter.Continued releasing albums and touring extensively into the 21st century, maintaining a massive global fanbase.Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019.
  • The band initially formed under names like Malice and Easy Cure before settling on The Cure in 1978.
  • Early member Lol Tolhurst transitioned from drums to keyboards but was fired in 1989 due to severe alcoholism during the recording of 'Disintegration'. His departure led to a bitter legal battle over royalties.
  • The band nearly imploded during the intense recording of the dark album 'Pornography' (1982), fueled by heavy drug use and internal tensions. Robert Smith later described feeling like the band had ended.
  • Bassist Michael Dempsey left after the first album and was replaced by Simon Gallup, whose distinctive basslines became a core element of the band's sound for decades. Gallup left briefly in the early 80s due to a fistfight with Smith but later returned.
  • The Cure holds the Guinness World Record for the longest concert by a rock band, playing for over 3 hours and 50 minutes as part of the Cureation festival in 2018.
  • Robert Smith was offered an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 2019 but declined it.