Wang Chung's Jack Hues Talks Vinyl, Touring, and the Golden Age of 80s Music

Exclusive Interview for Coastal Lifestyle Magazine

It’s always intriguing to connect with the creative minds behind songs that have left a lasting impression on listeners for decades. Ahead of Wang Chung’s upcoming performance in Gautier, Mississippi on June 1st as part of the I Want My 80s Tour at The Sound Amphitheatre, I had the opportunity to speak with Jack Hues—co-founder, vocalist, and guitarist of the band known for crafting some of the era’s most memorable tracks. And yes—expect a night filled with energy, nostalgia, and plenty of fun.

Clear Light Dark Matter — A Retrospective, Not Just a Greatest Hits

On May 9, Wang Chung drops their latest project: Clear Light Dark Matter (CLDM). Jack was clear in saying this isn’t your typical “greatest hits” record. Rather, it’s a career retrospective.

"Album one includes the big songs—Dance Hall Days, Everybody Have Fun Tonight, and the near-misses like Praying To A New God and a live cut of Fire in the Twilight from The Breakfast Club," he explained. "Album two is for the deep fans—unreleased demos, rare B-sides, and a fresh mix of Separate Lives, a track from our first album that we never finished—until now."

What makes this release especially exciting? It’s the first timeWang Chung’s catalog has been remastered from original tapes—and the first vinyl release since 1989’s The Warmer Side of Cool. For vinyl collectors, this one’s a gem.

Hitting the Road with Legends

Wang Chung joins Rick Springfield, John Waite, John Cafferty, and Paul Young on the I Want My 80s Tour, spanning May 28 through August 8. For Gulf Coast fans, their June 1st performance at The Sound Amphitheatre in Gautier is the date to circle.

Jack teased even more excitement on the horizon—a live album coming in September, recorded at Toronto’s famed El Mocambo, packed with fan favorites, deep cuts, and two brand-new tracks.

But perhaps most intriguing is their planned 40th anniversary celebration of To Live and Die in L.A.. Expect a deluxe double vinyl re-release—and possibly a live performance of the full album paired with a screening of the cult classic. “Follow us on www.wangchung.com,” he added, “and on social media for show updates.”

Influences: From Prog Rock to Punk and Pop Royalty

When asked about their early influences, Jack lit up. "It started with The Beatles for both me and Nick. But we went deep into prog—Genesis, Yes, Soft Machine—before discovering Bowie, Rundgren, Chaka Khan, and Little Feat."

He cited the punk revolution in London as another pivotal moment, name-dropping The Sex Pistols, The Ramones, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Pretenders. “And we loved our contemporaries—The Blue Nile, The Cars, Prince, and Tina Turner, who we were lucky enough to tour with.”

That wide-ranging musical curiosity shines through in every Wang Chung track—from the cinematic synth layers of To Live and Die in L.A. to the anthemic hooks of Everybody Have Fun Tonight.

The Magnetic Pull of the 80s

Why do audiences still pack amphitheaters to see bands like Wang Chung?

“The music we listen to between ages 8 and 18 sticks with us in a way nothing else does,” Jack said. “It’s formative. For many, the '80s represent a time of creative optimism, even if the world felt chaotic—kind of like now.”

He spoke of the era’s optimism and sonic experimentation. “It was a golden age—drum machines, synths, 48-track studios. Everyone was chasing the perfect pop song. And in many cases, I think we got close.”

So Jack, What’s Your Favorite Color?

“Black,” he answered without hesitation, with the kind of dry, unmistakable British humor that needs no embellishment.

Don't Miss It

Wang Chung hits The Sound Amphitheatre in Gautier, MS on June 1, 2025. Whether you’re reliving your youth or discovering their music for the first time, it promises to be an unforgettable night.

Visit www.wangchung.com for tour dates, music releases, and exclusive behind-the-scenes updates.