Midge Ure – The Musician Behind Ultravox, Band Aid, and Endless 80s Hits

If you grew up listening to synth‑driven rock or the biggest charity single of the 80s, you’ve probably heard Midge Ure’s name. He’s the Scottish singer‑songwriter who helped shape the sound of a decade and still writes songs that get airplay today.

How Midge Got His Start

Born in 1954 in Glasgow, Midge began playing piano as a kid and later switched to guitar. In the late 70s he joined a few punk bands, but his big break came when he answered an ad for a new wave group. That’s how he landed in Ultravox, a band that mixed rock guitars with electronic keyboards. Their 1981 album Vienna turned the title track into a UK top‑10 hit and made Midge a household name.

Beyond Ultravox – Band Aid and Solo Success

In 1984 Midge teamed up with Bob Geldof to write “Do What You Can” for the Live Aid concerts. The next year they co‑wrote “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” which became the biggest‑selling single ever at the time. It raised millions for famine relief and cemented Midge’s reputation as a songwriter who could move a crowd.

After Ultravox split, Midge went solo. Albums like Answers to Nothing (1988) and Pure (1991) gave him radio‑friendly hits such as “If I Was” and “Breathe.” Those tracks still get playlisted on classic‑rock stations and show his knack for catchy melodies.

He didn’t stop at music. Midge produced records for other artists, worked on film scores, and even ran a charity called “The Midge Ure Initiative,” which supports music education for under‑privileged kids.

So why does Midge Ure matter today? He helped define the synth‑rock sound that many modern bands still copy. His charity work proved that a pop star could use fame for real change. And his songs keep getting streamed, used in movies, and covered by new artists.

If you’re curious about his catalog, start with the Ultravox classic “Vienna,” then jump to his solo anthem “If I Was.” Both showcase his talent for blending emotional lyrics with big, anthemic production.

Whether you’re a die‑hard fan or just hearing the name for the first time, Midge Ure offers a mix of great music, a big heart, and an influence that still echoes in today’s pop and rock scenes.