The American singer-songwriter Stan Ridgeway celebrates 71 today
In 1983, Ridgway embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album, “The Big Heat,” in 1986. The album included the single “Camouflage,” a storytelling song that became a top five hit in the UK and was widely successful across Europe
The American singer-songwriter Stan Ridgeway celebrates 71 today
Stanard “Stan” Ridgway was born on April 5, 1954, in Barstow, California. He developed an early interest in music, learning to play the banjo at the age of 14. In the late 1970s, Ridgway founded Wall of Voodoo, a band known for blending new wave with Ennio Morricone-inspired spaghetti western soundtracks. As the lead vocalist and songwriter, he gained recognition for his distinctive voice and narrative lyrics. The band’s 1982 album, “Call of the West,” featured the hit single “Mexican Radio,” which brought them international acclaim.
After departing Wall of Voodoo in 1983, Ridgway embarked on a solo career, releasing his debut album, “The Big Heat,” in 1986. The album included the single “Camouflage,” a storytelling song that became a top five hit in the UK. Throughout his solo career, Ridgway has explored various musical styles, releasing albums such as “Mosquitos” (1989), “Partyball” (1991), and “Black Diamond” (1995). He has also composed music for films and collaborated with other artists, including Stewart Copeland on the song “Don’t Box Me In” for the 1983 film “Rumble Fish.”
In addition to his solo work, Ridgway formed the band Drywall in the mid-1990s with his wife, Pietra Wexstun. The group released the album “Work the Dumb Oracle” in 1995, showcasing a darker, more experimental sound. Ridgway and Wexstun also collaborated on a soundtrack for artist Mark Ryden’s 2003 exhibition “Blood: Miniature Paintings of Sorrow and Fear,” creating an ambient accompaniment to the artwork.
Look back at Stan Ridgeway performing his 1986 hit “Camouflage” at Top of the Pops
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