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Peter Byrne, the lead singer of new wave duo Naked Eyes, has died at the age of 74 following a short illness.
According to a statement on the band’s website, the British musician passed away peacefully in Los Angeles, California, on 14 September.
A statement reads: “Peter Byrne, singer and songwriter for the band Naked Eyes, died peacefully in Los Angeles, California, on Monday, September 14, after a brief illness.
“A private service will be held for the family. For those wishing to pay their respects, please support his music and condolences can be posted below in the comment section of this blog post.”
Byrne formed the group with musical partner Rob Fisher, gaining widespread recognition for hits like “Promises, Promises”, “When the Lights Go Out” and “(What) In the Name Of Love”. They were particularly renowned for their synth-pop rendition of “Always Something There To Remind Me”, a 1963 song penned by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.
The pair joined EMI Records in 1982, recording their 1983 debut album with producer Tony Mansfield at Abbey Road Studios. It was released as Burning Bridges in the UK and as self-titled Naked Eyes in the US, before they put out Fuel For The Fire in 1984.
As a solo artist, Byrne provided backing vocals for Stevie Wonder’s 1985 track “Part-Time Lover”.
He also wrote songs for film and television, including “I Am The Cute One” for twins Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen in 1993.
Fisher died in 1999 at the age of 42 after surgery for cancer.
Byrne continued writing, recording, and touring the world. In 2001, he released a solo album, The Real Illusion, as well as three more Naked Eyes albums.
He is survived by his siblings Eileen, Sandy, Carol, and Steve; his three children, Merlin, Dylan, and Chloe; and his ex-wife, Elena.
A private service will be held for his family.
