The Fixx (often stylized as The Fixx) are a British rock band formed in London in 1979, best known for their slick, atmospheric new wave sound that blended pop hooks, art rock sophistication, and danceable rhythms. With hits like “One Thing Leads to Another,” “Saved by Zero,” and “Stand or Fall,” they became MTV staples in the early 1980s and achieved significant commercial success, particularly in North America.
Origins and Early Days
College friends Cy Curnin (vocals) and Adam Woods (drums) initially formed the group as Portraits in 1979. They recruited keyboardist Rupert Greenall, guitarist Tony McGrail, and bassist Russell McKenzie (later replaced by Charlie Barrett). As Portraits, they released two singles on Ariola Records: “Little Women” (1979) and “Hazards in the Home” (1980).
In 1980, after McGrail’s departure, they added guitarist Jamie West-Oram (formerly with Phillip Rambow’s band) and renamed themselves The Fix. This lineup released the single “Lost Planes” on 101 Records in early 1981, gaining some BBC radio play. Concerned about potential drug connotations of the name “The Fix,” MCA Records required a spelling change to The Fixx upon signing them.
Breakthrough Success
The band’s debut album, Shuttered Room (1982), featured early hits “Stand or Fall” and “Red Skies,” which charted in the US, UK, and especially Canada. The album showcased their polished production and introspective lyrics, making them regulars on the then-new MTV.
Their sophomore effort, Reach the Beach (1983), produced by Rupert Hine, became their commercial peak—certified platinum (and reportedly double platinum in some accounts). Standout tracks included:
• “One Thing Leads to Another” (peaked at No. 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100, No. 1 in Canada)
• “Saved by Zero”
• “The Sign of Fire”
Bassist Dan K. Brown joined during these sessions, solidifying what became the classic lineup: Curnin, Woods, Greenall, West-Oram, and Brown.
Subsequent albums maintained momentum:
• Phantoms (1984): Hits like “Are We Ourselves?” and “Deeper and Deeper” (featured in the film Streets of Fire).
• Walkabout (1986): “Secret Separation.”
• Calm Animals (1989): “Driven Out.”
• Ink (1991): “How Much Is Enough?”
Curnin and West-Oram also contributed to Tina Turner’s Private Dancer album.
Later Career and Resilience
The band experienced some lineup fluctuations in the 1990s (Brown took a hiatus), but the core members persisted. They released albums like Elemental (1998), Want That Life (2003), Beautiful Friction (2012), and Every Five Seconds (2022), the latter featuring singles such as “Wake Up,” “Closer,” and “Woman of Flesh and Blood.” In 2023, they released the single “Winter’s Time.”
The classic five-piece lineup has been largely intact for decades, with Brown rejoining in 2008. They continue to tour regularly, blending hits with new material, and have maintained a dedicated fanbase (“Fixxtures”). Cy Curnin, the charismatic frontman known for his distinctive voice and stage presence, has also pursued solo projects.
Legacy
The Fixx exemplified 1980s new wave with thoughtful lyrics, strong musicianship, and memorable videos. While often grouped with peers like A Flock of Seagulls or Wang Chung for their US success, their art-rock influences and longevity set them apart. Their music remains a staple of classic rock and 80s playlists, and they show no signs of slowing down after over 45 years.
