A Personal History: The Long Blondes

At some point during high school, I took up the hobby of Google image-searching my favorite celebrities. During a routine "Chrissie Hynde" search one evening, I came across a photo of The Long Blondes. I would be lying if I said I was not at all attracted to the aesthetic of the band. As a matter of fact, that was what made me look into them, despite the fact that they were not the droids I was looking for. They had shown up in my search because someone had suggested a similarity between the vocals of lead singer Kate Jackson and Chrissie Hynde. The comparison is quite reasonable. I watched the video for "Once and Never Again" and was instantly hooked. I loved the guitar parts and the general rock sound of their songs, along with the killer vocals and the catchy tunes. My love for the clever lyrics came only slightly later.

Not only did I rewatch the few official videos quite often in the coming weeks, but I purchased both albums as soon as humanly possible. I researched the band, and was very disappointed to learn that they had broken up only a month or two prior to my discovery (due to health-related issues of guitarist Dorian Cox). I continued to listen to the group in excess. Years later, I am still very fond of them. And I still draw fashion inspiration (and envy) from Kate Jackson.

The Long Blondes left to right: Dorian Cox, Screech Louder, Kate Jackson, Emma Chaplin, and 

Reenie Hollis.

Where are they now? 

Since the break-up, Dorian Cox underwent treatment for his paralysis and has joined a new band called Milkteeth. Reenie Hollis and Screech Louder have formed The Bon Bon Club. Kate Jackson is reportedly working on a solo album under the name "Madame Ray."

Other Recommended Tracks:

Swallow Tattoo 

My Heart is Out of Bounds

The Couples 

Weekend Without Makeup

I'm Going to Hell