The Romantics, a band synonymous with the vibrant energy of American rock and the catchy hooks of ’80s new wave, have a story deeply rooted in the musical landscape of Detroit.
At the heart of this narrative is Mike Skill, the band’s founding lead guitarist and a principal songwriter, whose journey before and during his time with The Romantics showcases a blend of influences, adaptability, and a passion for music that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Mike Skill grew up on the east side of Detroit, a city pulsating with musical Innovation. The ’60s brought the British Invasion, with bands like The Kinks, The Who, The Beatles, The Hollies, and The Rolling Stones capturing the imagination of young musicians worldwide.
Skill was no exception; he found himself captivated by the raw energy and melodic sensibilities of these British acts. This fascination wasn’t just about the music—it was about the attitude, the style, and the revolutionary spirit that these bands embodied.
But Detroit had its own musical heartbeat. The city was a melting pot of sounds, from the soulful rhythms of Motown to the gritty garage rock of local bands. Influences like the MC5, the Stooges, and early Bob Seger were instrumental in shaping Skill’s musical outlook.
He absorbed the sincerity, irony, spontaneity, and volume that characterized Detroit’s late ’60s rock scene, blending it with the melodic hooks of the British bands he admired. By the mid-70s, Skill was ready to channel his influences into something original. In 1977, he joined forces with Wally Palmar (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica), Rich Cole (bass, vocals), and Jimmy Marinos (drums, vocals) to form The Romantics—a name befitting their debut on the day of love.
Their mission was clear: to create music that was fresh yet familiar, blending the infectious energy of British pop with the raw power of American rock. Detroit’s music scene was both a challenge and an inspiration.
The city was teeming with talent, and standing out required not just skill but also a unique identity. The Romantics distinguished themselves with their short hair, tailored suits, and high-energy performances.
They favoured concise, punchy songs that got straight to the point—a reflection of both their punk influences and the pop sensibilities of the British Invasion.
The Romantics’ relentless gigging paid off when they caught the attention of Nat Weiss’s Nemperor Records. In 79, they recorded their self-titled debut album with British producer Pete Solley. Released in 1980, this album marked the dawn of a new decade and introduced the world to "What I Like About You." With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, the song became a defining track of the era.
As the musical landscape shifted in the early ’80s, the emergence of new wave brought synthesizers, polished production, and a more commercial sound to the forefront. The Romantics, rooted in garage rock and power pop, faced the challenge of evolving without losing their identity.
Mike Skill left the band after the 1980 release of "National Breakout." The lineup change coincided with the band’s subtle incorporation of new wave elements into their music. Their 1983 album, "In Heat," showcased this evolution, with tracks like "Talking in Your Sleep" blending their signature rock energy with the melodic hooks and production sheen characteristic of new wave. The song became one of their biggest hits, reaching #3 in the U.S. and topping charts in Canada.
Despite lineup changes and the ebb and flow of musical trends, The Romantics have remained a constant presence in the rock scene.
Mike Skill’s return to the band in 2010, alongside original members Wally Palmar and Rich Cole, and drummer Brad Elvis, revitalized their live performances.
Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to deliver high-energy shows that resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences. Their influence extends beyond their own discography.
Artists across genres have cited The Romantics as an inspiration, and their tracks have been covered and sampled, underscoring their impact on American pop and rock music.
The story of The Romantics, with Mike Skill’s journey at its core, is a testament to the enduring power of rock and roll.
From the streets of Detroit to international stages, their music has bridged influences from the British Invasion to American garage rock, adapting to the tides of new wave while staying true to their roots. As they continue to perform and delight audiences, The Romantics embody the timeless spirit of rock music—a blend of passion, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to the craft.
Mike Skill joins us today to share his story.
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