Mike Score on A Flock of Seagulls, New Wave and the US Festival

Few bands are more visually and musically connected to the early MTV era than A Flock of Seagulls. Between their futuristic synth-driven sound, instantly recognizable hairstyles and atmospheric hits like I Ran (So Far Away), the band became one of the defining faces of new wave during the 1980s. This week on the Stuck in the ’80s Podcast, Steve sits down with frontman Mike Score for a conversation about the band’s rise, their legendary US Festival appearance and the enduring appeal of synth-pop nostalgia.

During the interview, Mike reflects on the early days of A Flock of Seagulls and the explosion of new wave music in the late ’70s and early ’80s. Spearsy and Mike discuss how synthesizers, visual style and experimental production techniques helped define a new generation of pop music that felt futuristic compared with traditional rock radio.

The conversation also revisits the band’s performance at the legendary US Festival, one of the most ambitious music events of the decade and a major showcase for the emerging MTV generation. Mike shares memories of performing during a period when new wave and synth-pop were rapidly becoming dominant forces in global pop culture.

Along the way, Spearsy and Mike discuss the surprising longevity of songs like Space Age Love Song and why audiences continue connecting emotionally with the dreamy, atmospheric sound that made the band unique. The interview also explores Mike’s upcoming appearance aboard The 80s Cruise and the continued popularity of live nostalgia events celebrating the music of the MTV era.

Like many great Stuck in the ’80s interviews, the conversation balances humor, music history and emotional nostalgia while revisiting the artists who helped define what the 1980s sounded — and looked — like.

If you love synth-pop, new wave, MTV nostalgia and behind-the-scenes stories from one of the most iconic bands of the decade, this episode belongs in your playlist.

The Stuck in the ’80s Podcast has spent nearly 20 years celebrating the music, movies, television and pop culture of the greatest decade ever. Support the show on Patreon for bonus episodes, exclusive livestream hangouts, behind-the-scenes content and merch for longtime listeners.

And don’t forget: Spearsy and Brad will once again be part of The 80s Cruise, the ultimate floating celebration of ’80s music and nostalgia. Use promo code STUCK when booking your cabin to receive up to $250 in onboard cabin credit while sailing with fellow Gen X fans and enjoying performances and appearances from many of the decade’s biggest artists. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.