Gary Kemp has been the main creative force behind Spandau Ballet since the band’s earliest days in the late 1970s. He is credited with writing all of the band’s classic hits, including ‘Gold’, ‘True’ and ‘Through The Barricades’.
Kemp has a long history with the group, having co-founded it with his brother Martin and schoolmates Steve Norman and John Keeble. He wrote all of the songs on the band’s first two albums, Journeys To Glory (1981) and Diamond (1982). His strong melodic sense, combined with his lyrical prowess, helped to create some of Spandau Ballet’s most beloved songs.
Kemp continued to be prolific in his songwriting for the group throughout their career. He wrote or co-wrote all of the songs on their biggest selling album True (1983), as well as its follow-up Parade (1984). He also penned much of their later material, such as Heart Like A Sky (1989), which was released after he had left the band.
In addition to being a songwriter, Kemp was also responsible for producing many of Spandau Ballet’s records. He produced True and Parade, as well as several other albums by the group. His production style was unique in that he often used synthesizers and drum machines to add texture to his recordings.
Kemp left Spandau Ballet in 1990, but continued to work on projects with other musicians. In recent years he has returned to songwriting for Spandau Ballet through collaborations with Tony Hadley on their 2009 album Once More. He also co-wrote several tracks on their most recent studio album The Story – The Very Best Of Spandau Ballet (2017).
Conclusion:
It is clear that Gary Kemp wrote most of Spandau Ballet’s iconic hits over the years. While other members have contributed songwriting credits here and there, it is clear that Kemp has been responsible for much of the band’s most beloved material.
Whether producing or writing songs himself, Gary Kemp has been an integral part of Spandau Ballet throughout its history and will continue to be so in years to come. Did Gary Kemp Write All Spandau Ballet? The answer is yes!