The Motels

The Motels

“The Motels” is an American new wave band that was formed in Berkeley, California, in 1978. The band’s initial lineup consisted of lead singer Martha Davis, guitarist Dean Chamberlain, bassist Michael Goodroe, keyboardist Robert Pagano, and drummer Brian Glascock.

The Motels gained popularity in the early 1980s with their hits, including “Only the Lonely” and “Suddenly Last Summer.” Martha Davis, with her distinctive voice, was a central figure in the band’s sound. “Only the Lonely” reached the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1982.

The band underwent various lineup changes over the years, and Martha Davis remained the only consistent member. Despite changes, The Motels continued to release music and tour. Their music often blended elements of new wave, rock, and pop.

While the original lineup disbanded in the mid-1980s, Martha Davis continued to use The Motels name for her musical projects, releasing new material and performing under the band’s banner.

The Motels’ music is characterized by its catchy melodies, Davis’s emotive vocals, and the band’s ability to blend different musical styles. They remain notable for their contribution to the new wave and alternative music scenes of the 1980s.