Having topped the charts on both sides of the Atlantic with 1989’s Eternal Flame, The Bangles looked set to enter the new decade as the biggest girlband on planet pop. But by the time Clive James was helping to usher in the 90s, the most overground outfit from the Paisley Underground had imploded.
Jealousy over Susanna Hoffs, the voice behind that epic four-week No.1, getting all the limelight was reportedly the catalyst. The quartet had always operated democratically, sharing both vocal and songwriting duties pretty much equally on all three of their studio efforts. Even so, with her striking stage presence and a voice that could naturally flit between gravelly rocker and delicate balladeer, Hoffs inevitably became the de facto frontwoman.
HOFFS WAS EXPECTED TO MAKE THE TRANSITION TO FULLY-FLEDGED SOLO ARTIST LOOK EFFORTLESS. HOWEVER, THINGS DIDN’T QUITE TURN OUT THAT WAY.