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The Romantics, a band synonymous with the vibrant energy of American rock and the catchy hooks of ’80s new wave, have a story deeply rooted in the musical landscape of Detroit. At the heart of this narrative is Mike Skill, the band’s founding lead guitarist and a principal songwriter, whose journey before and during his time with The Romantics showcases a blend of influences, adaptability, and a passion for music that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Detroit Roots – The Sound That Shaped Mike Skill
Mike Skill grew up on the east side of Detroit, a city pulsating with musical innovation. The 1960s brought the British Invasion, with bands like The Kinks, The Who, The Beatles, The Hollies, and The Rolling Stones capturing the imagination of young musicians worldwide. Skill was no exception; he found himself captivated by the raw energy and melodic sensibilities of these British acts. This fascination wasn’t just about the music—it was about the attitude, the style, and the revolutionary spirit that these bands embodied.
British Invasion & Garage Rock – The Birth of a Guitarist
But Detroit had its own musical heartbeat. The city was a melting pot of sounds, from the soulful rhythms of Motown to the gritty garage rock of local bands. Influences like the MC5, the Stooges, and early Bob Seger were instrumental in shaping Skill’s musical outlook. He absorbed the sincerity, irony, spontaneity, and volume that characterized Detroit’s late ’60s rock scene, blending it with the melodic hooks of the British bands he admired
Valentine’s Day 1977 – The Romantics Are Born
By the mid-1970s, Skill was ready to channel his influences into something original. On Valentine’s Day in 1977, he joined forces with Wally Palmar (lead vocals, rhythm guitar, harmonica), Rich Cole (bass, vocals), and Jimmy Marinos (drums, vocals) to form The Romantics—a name befitting their debut on the day of love. Their mission was clear: to create music that was fresh yet familiar, blending the infectious energy of British pop with the raw power of American rock
Breaking Out – Early Gigs and Finding Their Sound
Detroit’s music scene was both a challenge and an inspiration. The city was teeming with talent, and standing out required not just skill but also a unique identity. The Romantics distinguished themselves with their short hair, tailored suits, and high-energy performances. They favored concise, punchy songs that got straight to the point—a reflection of both their punk influences and the pop sensibilities of the British Invasion.
What I Like About You – The Hit That Defined an Era
The Romantics’ relentless gigging paid off when they caught the attention of Nat Weiss’s Nemperor Records. In September 1979, they recorded their self-titled debut album with British producer Pete Solley. Released on January 4, 1980, this album marked the dawn of a new decade and introduced the world to “What I Like About You.”
With its infectious beat and catchy chorus, “What I Like About You” became a defining track of the era. While it peaked at #49 on the U.S. charts, it soared to #2 in Australia, showcasing the band’s international appeal. The song’s enduring popularity has cemented it as a staple on classic rock and ’80s playlists, a testament to its timeless charm.
New Wave Takes Over – Adapting to the ’80s Sound
As the musical landscape shifted in the early ’80s, the emergence of new wave brought synthesizers, polished production, and a more commercial sound to the forefront. The Romantics, rooted in garage rock and power pop, faced the challenge of evolving without losing their identity.
Lineup Changes & Challenges – The Road to "In Heat"
Mike Skill’s departure after the 1980 release of “National Breakout” led to the introduction of guitarist Coz Canler. This lineup change coincided with the band’s subtle incorporation of new wave elements into their music. Their 1983 album, “In Heat,” showcased this evolution, with tracks like “Talking in Your Sleep” blending their signature rock energy with the melodic hooks and production sheen characteristic of new wave. The song became one of their biggest hits, reaching #3 in the U.S. and topping charts in Canada.
Talking in Your Sleep – The Romantics' Biggest Hit
A Band Reborn – Mike Skill’s Return & New Energy
Despite lineup changes and the ebb and flow of musical trends, The Romantics have remained a constant presence in the rock scene. Mike Skill’s return to the band in 2010, alongside original members Wally Palmar and Rich Cole, and drummer Brad Elvis, revitalized their live performances. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to deliver high-energy shows that resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences
Still Rockin’ – The Romantics’ Legacy and Future
Their influence extends beyond their own discography. Artists across genres have cited The Romantics as an inspiration, and their tracks have been covered and sampled, underscoring their impact on American pop and rock music.
