Too Shy, Too Cool: Reliving the Trendsetting Looks of Kajagoogoo in the 80s

The 1980s were a time of vibrant fashion and unforgettable music, and one band that epitomized the era was Kajagoogoo. Hailing from Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire, Kajagoogoo started their journey as a four-piece avant-garde group called Art Nouveau.

The band consisted of Nick Beggs on bass guitar, Steve Askew on lead guitar, Stuart Croxford Neale on keyboards, and Jez Strode on drums. However, it wasn’t until they renamed themselves Kajagoogoo that they would make their mark on the music scene.

h/t: vintag.es

Best known for their chart-topping hit single “Too Shy,” which reached No. 1 on the UK Singles Chart and became a global sensation, Kajagoogoo captured the hearts of fans around the world. Their unique sound, catchy melodies, and stylish appearance helped define the new wave genre and solidify their place in music history.

In the United States, the band temporarily adopted the name Kaja and released a modified version of their album “Islands” as “Extra Play.” Although it peaked at No. 185 on the Billboard charts, their single “Turn Your Back on Me” achieved significant success on the U.S. Dance Charts, reaching No. 2 for two weeks.

Despite their early triumphs, the group disbanded in December 1985, leaving behind a legacy of memorable songs and distinctive fashion choices. However, fans had a glimmer of hope when the original five-piece lineup reunited for a brief period on VH1’s “Bands Reunited” in 2003. Unfortunately, in March 2017, bassist Nick Beggs confirmed that Kajagoogoo was no longer active.

Now, let’s take a step back in time and explore the vintage photos that showcase the remarkable styles of Kajagoogoo in the 1980s. From their flamboyant haircuts and vibrant clothing to their unique stage presence, these images allow us to reminisce about the band’s iconic fashion moments and the spirit of the era they represented.