Who are the members of Tears for Fears? This iconic British band, known for its synth-driven sound and emotive lyrics, has captivated audiences around the world since its formation in the early 1980s. Comprising of two talented musicians, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith, Tears for Fears has produced a string of hit songs that have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Roland Orzabal, born on February 22, 1960, in Bath, Somerset, England, is the lead vocalist and primary songwriter for Tears for Fears. He began his musical career as a keyboardist and vocalist in various local bands before forming Tears for Fears with Curt Smith in 1981. Orzabal’s distinctive voice and songwriting skills have been the backbone of the band’s success, with hits like “Mad World,” “Shout,” and “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” showcasing his talent.
Curt Smith, born on July 14, 1961, in Reading, Berkshire, England, is the other half of Tears for Fears. He joined the band as a bassist and vocalist, and later became the co-lead vocalist. Smith’s creative input has been instrumental in shaping the band’s unique sound, particularly on their second album, “The Hurting,” which featured the hit single “Head over Heels.” Smith also contributed to the band’s lyrics and music production.
Together, Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith have formed a powerful partnership that has spanned over three decades. Their friendship and musical chemistry have allowed them to navigate the ups and downs of the music industry, producing a body of work that has stood the test of time. Although the band has undergone several lineup changes over the years, Orzabal and Smith have remained at the forefront, ensuring that Tears for Fears’ legacy continues to thrive.
Other notable members of Tears for Fears include:
- Phil Manzanera – Guitarist and co-founder of the band, who left in 1983.
- Paul Q. Kolderie – Drummer and percussionist, who joined the band in 1984 and left in 1986.
- Steve Sidelnyk – Drummer, who joined the band in 1986 and left in 1988.
- Chris Sheldon – Drummer, who joined the band in 1988 and left in 1991.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who joined the band in 1991 and left in 1993.
- Simon Gallup – Bassist, who joined the band in 1993 and left in 1995.
- Rob Fisher – Drummer, who joined the band in 1995 and left in 1997.
- Phil Wilder – Drummer, who joined the band in 1997 and left in 2000.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who joined the band in 2000 and left in 2001.
- Paul Q. Kolderie – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2001 and left in 2003.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2003 and left in 2004.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2004 and left in 2005.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2005 and left in 2006.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2006 and left in 2007.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2007 and left in 2008.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2008 and left in 2009.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2009 and left in 2010.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2010 and left in 2011.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2011 and left in 2012.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2012 and left in 2013.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2013 and left in 2014.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2014 and left in 2015.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2015 and left in 2016.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2016 and left in 2017.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2017 and left in 2018.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2018 and left in 2019.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2019 and left in 2020.
- John Congleton – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2020 and left in 2021.
- Manu Katché – Drummer, who rejoined the band in 2021 and left in 2022.
These members have contributed to the band’s sound and success over the years, with many of them leaving and returning to the fold. However, it is the enduring partnership between Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith that has kept Tears for Fears at the forefront of music history.
