MADPOD #136 THOMAS DOLBY Exclusive Interview

MADPOD THOMAS DOLBY Exclusive Interview

SHE BLINDED ME WITH SCIENCE
Dolby Mentions that “Podcasting and Satellite Radio is the FUTURE!…”

Thomas Dolby became one of the most recognizable figures of the synth-pop movement of early-’80s new wave. Largely, this was due to his skillful marketing. Dolby promoted himself as a kind of mad scientist, an egghead that had successfully harnessed the power of synthesizers and samplers, using them to make catchy pop and light electro-funk. Before he launched a solo career, Dolby had worked as a studio musician, technician, and songwriter; his most notable work as a songwriter was “New Toy,” which he wrote for Lene Lovich, and Whodini’s “Magic’s Wand.” In 1981, he launched a solo career, which resulted in a number of minor hits and two big hits — “She Blinded Me with Science” (1982) and “Hyperactive” (1984). Following “Hyperactive,” he began producing more frequently, as well as exploring new synthesizer and computer technology. Thomas speaks with Shadoe Steele from his home in Northern California’s Bay area.