By Eric Kohanik, ReMIND Magazine

Although the British Invasion was a 1960s phenomenon in music, there was a second wave that hit America during the 1970s and 1980s. And, contrary to the classic rock ‘n’ roll flavor of the first wave, this second tier of musical influences ranged from punk rock to new wave. Among the key players:
Sex Pistols
Widely regarded as the trailblazers of the punk rock movement, this group came together in London during 1975 and soon became one of the most influential bands around, bringing such names as Johnny Rotten and Sid Vicious into the spotlight.
The Clash
Originally formed in 1976, this band was also part of the original wave of British punk. Its strong influence lasted until the band’s breakup in 1986.
Elvis Costello
Another player in the punk and new wave movement, Costello got his start in the British “pub rock” scene during the mid 1970s. His musical style and flair continue to thrive.
The Pretenders
Combining elements of rock, punk and new wave, this English/American band got rolling in 1978. Notable for lead singer/songwriter Chrissie Hynde, the band recently reunited with Hynde (who went solo in 2014) to embark on a North American tour with rock ‘n’ roll queen Stevie Nicks.
The Human League
Formed in 1977, this new wave band garnered widespread acclaim during the early 1980s for its electronic, synthesizer style. It’s a style that the band continues to follow.
Gary Numan
Initially the lead singer of a band called Tubeway Army, Numan has been a solo performer since 1979. Although his popularity peaked during the late ’70s and early ’80s, he continues to “rock on.”
Eurythmics
Although the musical teamwork of Annie Lennox and Dave Stewart got underway in 1980, the duo didn’t conquer the new wave world until 1983, when they hit it big with the title track of their second album, Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This).
Simple Minds
Spawned in Glasgow in 1977, this group became Scotland’s most successful band during the 1980s. Their string of hit singles continues to remain popular.
Culture Club
Formed in 1981, this English band became notable for its colorful lead vocalist, Boy George. The band’s mix of new wave and dance pop music is still a fan favorite.
The Police
Born in London in 1977, the new wave music of Sting, Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland quickly grew to enjoy worldwide popularity. They were regarded as one of the first new wave groups to hit it big in the mainstream music world.
Wham!
Formed in 1981, the musical stylings of George Michael and Andrew Ridgeley rapidly became a dance pop sensation. Although the duo split up in 1986, Michael continued to be a popular figure until his death on Christmas Day 2016.
Duran Duran
Starting out as an alternative, new wave band in 1978, the members of Duran Duran soon became mainstream pop stars, thanks to lead singer Simon Le Bon. The band is still widely regarded as one of the leaders of the “Second British Invasion.”

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