Today is the birthday of Tears for Fears co-founder Roland Orzabal. As we recognize the English musician and singer-songwriter and his accomplishments, let’s also show our appreciation for the synth pop bands of the early eighties. A sub-genre of New Wave, synth pop capitalized on the quirky pop approach, use of electric sounds, and distinctive visual style in music videos and fashion of the MTV-driven music genre.

For today’s 9:30 Coffee Break, what new wave synth songs do you want to hear?

Respond with your song ideas in the comments below.

Have an idea for a Coffee Break topic? Submit your idea for a future theme and browse past Coffee Breaks in our archive.

Songs Played:
Tears for Fears – Change
Soft Cell – Tainted Love
Berlin – The Metro
Information Society – What’s On Your Mind (Pure Energy)
The Human League – Love Action (I Believe in Love)
Eurythmics – Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)
Pet Shop Boys – What Have I Done To Deserve This?
Gary Newman – Are ‘Friends’ Electric
Ultravox – Vienna (Bonus Track!)