Introduction
The Bangles, an all-female band from Los Angeles, California, released their hit single “Walk Like an Egyptian” in 1986. The song was written by Liam Sternberg and produced by David Kahne. The song became a massive hit and reached number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, as well as the charts in several other countries. The music video for the song was also incredibly popular and became an iconic representation of the 1980s.
The Music Video
The music video for “Walk Like an Egyptian” was directed by Gary Weis and was shot in New York City. The video features the band members – Susanna Hoffs, Debbi Peterson, Vicki Peterson, and Michael Steele – in various locations around the city, performing the song and dancing in a style inspired by Egyptian hieroglyphics. The video also features shots of various people in New York City imitating the Egyptian dance moves.
The video was incredibly popular when it was first released and is still well-known today. It was nominated for several awards, including Best Group Video at the 1987 MTV Video Music Awards, and won the award for Best Art Direction in a Video.
The Band
The Bangles were formed in 1981 and originally consisted of Susanna Hoffs, Debbi Peterson, Vicki Peterson, and Annette Zilinskas. Michael Steele joined the band in 1983, replacing Zilinskas. The band’s sound was a mix of pop, rock, and folk influences, and they were known for their catchy melodies and harmonies.
Before “Walk Like an Egyptian,” the band had several other hits, including “Manic Monday” and “Eternal Flame.” They disbanded in 1989 but reunited in 1998 and continue to perform and record music today.
Susanna Hoffs
Susanna Hoffs was the lead singer and guitarist for The Bangles. She was born on January 17, 1959, in Los Angeles, California. Before forming The Bangles, she was in several other bands, including The Colours and The Unconscious. In addition to her work with The Bangles, she has also released several solo albums and acted in films and television shows.
She is known for her distinctive voice and her signature look, which includes her long hair and black eyeliner. She is also known for her activism, particularly in the areas of animal welfare and music education.
Debbi Peterson
Debbi Peterson was the drummer and vocalist for The Bangles. She was born on August 22, 1961, in Los Angeles, California. Before joining The Bangles, she was in several other bands, including The Eyes and The Continental Drifters.
In addition to her work with The Bangles, she has also released several solo albums and has worked as a songwriter and producer. She is known for her energetic drumming style and her harmonies with Hoffs and Vicki Peterson.
Vicki Peterson
Vicki Peterson was the guitarist and vocalist for The Bangles. She was born on January 11, 1958, in Los Angeles, California. Before forming The Bangles, she was in several other bands, including The Continental Drifters and The Eyes.
In addition to her work with The Bangles, she has also worked as a songwriter and producer and has played guitar for other artists. She is known for her intricate guitar playing and her harmonies with Hoffs and Debbi Peterson.
Michael Steele
Michael Steele was the bassist and vocalist for The Bangles. She was born on June 2, 1955, in Pasadena, California. Before joining The Bangles, she was in several other bands, including The Runaways and The Textones.
In addition to her work with The Bangles, she has also worked as a solo artist and has acted in films and television shows. She is known for her distinctive voice and her bass playing.
Conclusion
“Walk Like an Egyptian” and its accompanying music video are iconic representations of the 1980s. The song’s catchy melody and the band’s harmonies made it a massive hit, and the video’s Egyptian-inspired dance moves and New York City setting made it a cultural touchstone. The Bangles continue to perform and record music today, and their legacy as one of the most successful all-female bands of all time is secure.
