who is he

Who Is He? A Groovy History of the Mystery Man

Remember the days of cassette tapes and mixtapes? Back when the music scene was full of intrigue and mystery? Enter “Who Is He?”, a musical genre that thrived on anonymity, leaving listeners to grapple with the question: “Who is this voice? Who is this soul?”

This genre, often tied to the late 70s and early 80s, wasn’t just about the music. It was about the thrill of the unknown. The artist, masked behind a persona, could be anyone. This ambiguity fueled speculation, and fuelled the passion of fans.

A Tale of Two Eras:

The early years saw “Who Is He?” largely confined to glam rock. Think David Bowie, with his ever-evolving persona, and Roxy Music, with their enigmatic stage presence. This was the era of androgyny, glitter, and questioning societal norms.

However, the genre truly flourished with the rise of synth-pop and new wave. Artists like The Human League and Duran Duran embraced the masked identity, playing with visual aesthetics and blurring the lines between music and performance art.

Funny Facts from the “Who Is He?” Scene:

• The “Who Is He?” Whisper: The iconic whisper of the enigmatic “Who is he?” phrase, often used as a musical hook, was famously employed by The Human League, but its origins are debated. Some say it’s a tribute to Bowie, others to a certain “mystery” voice from the early 70s.
• “He” Could Be “She”: The ambiguity wasn’t just about the artist’s identity. It extended to the music itself. Many “Who Is He?” songs featured female vocals, intentionally shrouded in a masculine persona.
• The Mask as a Shield: While some artists embraced the masked identity, others used it as a shield against the pressures of fame. The “Who Is He?” genre provided a space for experimentation, without the need for constant scrutiny.

The Legacy of “Who Is He?”:

Though the era of “Who Is He?” may have faded, the influence of this genre remains. Today, artists like Lady Gaga and Daft Punk continue to play with persona and anonymity, proving that the power of the unknown continues to intrigue and inspire.

So, the next time you hear a song that makes you think, “Who is this?,” remember the legacy of “Who Is He?”. It’s a reminder that music can be much more than just sound. It’s a mystery, a journey, a story waiting to be unraveled.