Berlin (band)

Berlin (band)
source
Name	Berlin
Origin	Los Angeles, California, U.S.
Genre	New wave, synth-pop, post-punk
Years active	1978–1987, 1997–present
Label	Geffen Records, Enigma Records
Current members	Terri Nunn
Past members	John Crawford, David Diamond, Rob Brill, Ric Olsen, Rod Learned, Matt Reid, Chris Olivas

Berlin (band). An American new wave band formed in Los Angeles in 1978, Berlin achieved international fame in the 1980s with their synth-pop sound and provocative lyrics. Fronted by charismatic vocalist Terri Nunn, the group is best known for the 1986 power ballad "Take My Breath Away", which topped charts worldwide and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. While experiencing several hiatuses and lineup changes, the band has maintained a lasting legacy in popular music.

History

The band was formed in 1978 by bassist John Crawford and vocalist Terri Nunn, with early contributions from keyboardist David Diamond. They gained initial attention on the Los Angeles club circuit, signing with Enigma Records and releasing their debut album, *Pleasure Victim*, in 1982. The album's single "The Metro" became a hit on MTV and dance clubs, establishing their dark, synth-driven style. Their mainstream breakthrough came with the 1986 single "Take My Breath Away", commissioned for the Tony Scott film *Top Gun* and released on the *Count Three & Pray* album via Geffen Records. Following commercial peak, internal tensions led to a dissolution in 1987, though Nunn revived the name in 1997 for touring and new recordings, leading to subsequent albums like *Voyeur* (2002) and *Animal* (2013).

Members

The classic 1980s lineup featured core members Terri Nunn (lead vocals), John Crawford (bass, synthesizers), and David Diamond (keyboards). Other significant contributors during this era included drummer Rob Brill and guitarist Ric Olsen. Following the band's reformation, Nunn has been the sole constant member, leading various touring ensembles that have included longtime collaborator David Diamond and later musicians such as guitarist Rod Learned and drummer Chris Olivas. The evolving roster has performed at major events like the Sunset Strip Music Festival and on tours with contemporaries like The B-52's and Culture Club.

Musical style and influences

Berlin's music is primarily classified as synth-pop and new wave, characterized by prominent Moog synthesizer lines, drum machine rhythms, and Nunn's distinctive vocal delivery. Early work, such as on *Pleasure Victim*, exhibited a darker, more post-punk edge influenced by artists like David Bowie and Roxy Music. Their sound evolved to incorporate more polished pop music structures, as heard in hits produced by Giorgio Moroder. Lyrically, the band often explored themes of romantic love, eroticism, and urban anxiety, drawing comparisons to fellow Los Angeles acts Devo and The Motels.

Discography

Berlin's major studio albums include *Pleasure Victim* (1982), *Love Life* (1984), *Count Three & Pray* (1986), *Voyeur* (2002), and *Animal* (2013). Their most successful compilation is *Best of Berlin 1979–1988* (1988). The single "Take My Breath Away" reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and the UK Singles Chart, while other notable charting songs include "The Metro" and "No More Words". Their music has appeared in numerous films and television shows, including *Top Gun*, *The Wedding Singer*, and episodes of *Stranger Things*.

Awards and nominations

The band's most prestigious honor is the Academy Award for Best Original Song, won in 1986 for "Take My Breath Away" (written by Giorgio Moroder and Tom Whitlock). The song also earned a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and a Grammy Award nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal. Berlin received a MTV Video Music Award nomination for Best New Artist in 1984. Their work continues to be recognized in retrospectives, including features on VH1 programs like *I Love the '80s*.

Category:American new wave musical groups Category:Musical groups from Los Angeles Category:Geffen Records artists