
About
The Motels is a New Wave music band from the Los Angeles area best known for Only the Lonely and Suddenly, Last Summer, both of which peaked at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1982 and 1983, respectively.* First incarnation Formed in 1971 in Berkeley, California, the band (then called The Warfield Foxes) moved to Los Angeles by 1973 seeking a record deal. The band consisted of Martha Davis on vocals and guitar, Dean Chamberlain on lead guitar, Chuck Wada on 2nd lead guitar and others. Read more on Last.fm
Genres
- australian rock
- new romantic
- new wave
- new wave pop
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was the singer for The Motels?
- The singer for The Motels is Martha Davis. As the iconic frontwoman and principal songwriter, Martha Davis's distinctive vocals and emotive delivery became the defining sound of the band. Formed in Los Angeles in the late 1970s, The Motels quickly garnered attention in the burgeoning new wave and rock scene. Davis's talent for crafting heartfelt and relatable lyrics, combined with her charismatic stage presence, set The Motels apart from their contemporaries. Throughout the band's evolution, Martha Davis has remained the consistent, driving force, leading the group through lineup changes and musical shifts. Today, she continues to perform and record with The Motels, keeping the band's legacy alive for new and longtime fans alike. For those seeking a live experience featuring the unmistakable voice behind classic hits, tickets to The Motels featuring Martha Davis are a must-have on Gigfomo.
- What was The Motels big hit?
- The Motels' biggest hit is undoubtedly "Only the Lonely." Released in 1982 as part of their album "All Four One," the song became a staple of 1980s rock and pop, reaching No. 9 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Only the Lonely" is renowned for its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and Martha Davis's passionate vocal performance, which captured the emotional essence of heartbreak and longing. The song's music video, which enjoyed heavy rotation on MTV, further propelled The Motels into mainstream success. "Only the Lonely" remains an enduring favorite among fans and continues to receive radio airplay, solidifying its place as the band's signature track. For fans of classic rock and 80s pop, experiencing "Only the Lonely" live is a highlight of any Motels concert, and tickets are available for their upcoming shows on Gigfomo.
- What happened to the band The Motels?
- The Motels, after achieving significant success in the early 1980s, experienced several changes that impacted the band's trajectory. Internal tensions, shifting musical trends, and industry pressures led to lineup changes and periods of inactivity. By the mid-1980s, some original members departed, and the band's mainstream popularity began to wane. Despite these challenges, lead singer Martha Davis continued to carry the torch for The Motels, occasionally releasing music under the band's name and performing live. In the years since, The Motels have seen a resurgence, particularly with the revival of 80s nostalgia. Martha Davis reformed The Motels with new touring musicians, performing classic hits and new material to enthusiastic audiences. The band remains active, delighting fans with their timeless sound at venues across the country. Secure your tickets for The Motels' next tour exclusively on Gigfomo.
- How did the band The Motels get their name?
- The Motels got their name as a reflection of the transient, sometimes lonely lifestyle associated with rock musicians and the American landscape. When the band was originally formed in Los Angeles in 1975, they went through several names before settling on The Motels. The name was inspired by the ubiquitous, often nondescript motels that dot highways across the United States
- What happened to the group The Motels?
- The group The Motels experienced both highs and lows throughout their career. After rising to fame in the early 1980s with hits like "Only the Lonely" and "Suddenly Last Summer," the band faced internal changes and the shifting landscape of the music industry. Key members left, and by the mid-80s, The Motels had largely disbanded, with Martha Davis pursuing solo projects. However, the band's music retained a loyal fanbase, leading to occasional reunions and the formation of a new lineup led by Davis in the late 1990s and 2000s. Today, The Motels continue to perform with Martha Davis at the helm, blending original classics with fresh material for audiences old and new. Their enduring appeal speaks to the timeless quality of their music. Fans can catch The Motels in concert by securing tickets through Gigfomo, your trusted source for live music experiences.