Joy Division — 1980s Music, Albums & Concerts
Two albums, one short career, and a permanent shadow cast over post-punk.
Origin: Salford, England · Years active: 1976–1980
Biography
Joy Division existed for only a few years, but their influence on the 1980s and beyond is impossible to overstate. Ian Curtis's lyrics, Peter Hook's high melodic basslines and Martin Hannett's cavernous production created a sound that would define post-punk and seed gothic rock, indie and dance music alike.
Their 1979 debut Unknown Pleasures (released on Tony Wilson's Factory Records) set the template. By early 1980 the band had toured Europe and recorded their second album.
Closer (1980) was released two months after Ian Curtis's death by suicide in May 1980. 'Love Will Tear Us Apart', released as a single shortly after, became one of post-punk's defining songs.
After Curtis's death, the surviving members became New Order. Joy Division's two-album catalogue continues to inspire generations of bands and artists.
Key 1980s albums
- Closer (1980)
- Still (1981)
Essential songs
- Love Will Tear Us Apart (1980)
- Atmosphere (1980)
- Isolation (1980)
- Ceremony (1980)
Genres
Upcoming concerts
No confirmed upcoming Joy Division concerts are listed in the Radio1980 concert database right now. Browse all upcoming 80s concerts.