Belinda Carlisle, the iconic pop star, experienced unparalleled success in the 1980s, initially with the all-female rock band The Go-Go's, and later as a solo artist, achieving international recognition.
The Go-Go's debut album, "Beauty and the Beat" (1981),spent an impressive six weeks at number one on the charts, making them the only all-female band to achieve this feat, where every member played their own instruments. In 1982, the group released their second album, "Vacation", which debuted in the top 10, peaking at number eight, and eventually sold over one million copies, despite being certified gold by their record label.
However, internal tensions began to rise within the band, particularly between Belinda and Jane Wiedlin, as Jane felt overshadowed by Belinda's growing fame. Members Gina Schock and Charlotte Caffey also faced health issues, and the entire group struggled with drug addiction. Moreover, the band had ongoing disputes with their record label, which failed to pay them royalties.
The Go-Go's released "Talk Show" in 1984, despite having one of the biggest tours of the summer, the album was considered a commercial disappointment. The band eventually disbanded in the spring of 1985.
Belinda Carlisle then embarked on a successful solo career, releasing her debut album "Belinda" in 1986, after a period of personal rejuvenation, free from drugs and focused on her marriage and overall well-being. She continued to enjoy major solo success throughout the late 1980s with the releases of "Heaven On Earth" (1987) and "Runaway Horses" (1989).
However, the rise of grunge in the early 1990s significantly impacted Belinda's solo work, with her 1991 album "Live Your Life Be Free" barely making a dent on the charts, and her 1993 album "Real" tanking. Her American record company, MCA Records, ultimately dropped her in 1994.
Despite the decline of her American popularity, Belinda found immense success in Europe, often rivaling the fame of Madonna. She continued to sell out stadiums in the United Kingdom, where she was warmly received by fans.
Today, Belinda occasionally records music as both a solo artist and a member of The Go-Go's, preferring a part-time career to maintain a balance between her personal and professional life. She has also made appearances in films, such as the 1984 Goldie Hawn vehicle "Swing Shift", and, in 2001, posed nude for Playboy, showcasing her confidence and sex appeal at the age of 43.
