LEVEL 42
Mark King, Phil and brother Rowland, better known as Boon originated from the Isle of White, just off the south English coast. They had played together in various bands in their youth.
By 1979 all three were now living and working / studying in London. Phil Gould was studying at London's Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where he met keyboard player Mike Lindup. It was during this time that all four met and so began the transformation into Level 42.
By 1980 they had signed a record deal with Elite records, releasing their first single "Love Meeting Love" , bringing them to the attention of Polydor Records. It was "Love Games" , released from their self titled album which became a Top 40 hit, reaching number 38 in 1981.
The Early Tapes was released later in the same year, capitalising on the band's new found success. This was a compilation of material from the Elite Records period.
1982 saw the release of The Pursuit of Accidents which saw the band further developing their jazzy / funky style with more vocals. They released the singles, "Weave Your Spell" and "The Chinese Way" which later charted in at number 24.
Following the release of True Colours and A Physical Presence, came World Machine which was released in 1985. This album produced 2 great tracks which got them placed within the UK's Top 20, "Something About You" and "Leaving Me Now". "Something About You" secured them there only US Top 10 hit in 1986.
"Lessons in Love", released in early 1986 became the bands biggest selling single, reaching number 1 in several European Countries. Saying that nothing was heard from the band until the release of the album "Running in The Family" which saw a further 4 singles being released all seeing Top 20 hits.
In 1987 rumours of a split were rife. Phil Gould and Mark King's relationship and artistic differences began to deteriorate. Towards the end of the year Boon Gould left the band, stating exhaustion and wanting to spend more time with his family as reasons for his departure. Phil Gould left during a tour in December 1987. As well as citing exhaustion for his departure, his relationship with Mark King had come to a head, not liking the direction of the music they were producing.
1988 saw Level 42 return with a new lineup, Gary Husband (drums) and guitarist Alan Murphy, with the release of "Heaven in My Hands". The success of this album however saw the band suffer the unexpected death of new comer Alan Murphy. He developed pneumonia which was further complicated with him suffering from AIDS. He passed away on October 19th 1989.
Alan was later replaced by renowned fusion guitarist Alan Holdsworth for 1991's release of Guaranteed, which reached number 3 in the album charts.
Forever Now saw the return of Phil Gould playing the drums, all be it in the studio only, and Gary Husband leaving. This reunion was short lived however with Phil leaving again despite critical success with the album. Half way through there Forever Now Tour it was announced that Level 42 would be no more.
In 2006, Level 42 made a return to the music stage with the release of Retroglide.