Fake Wife, the brainchild of Manchester-based producer and songwriter Lewis James, is a captivating musical project that brilliantly marries the essence of 80s synth-wave with a contemporary alt-pop flair. Born from James’ passion for crafting the perfect pop song, Fake Wife draws inspiration from iconic bands like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and Talking Heads. This fusion of nostalgic influences and modern sensibilities creates a unique sound that has quickly gained traction in the music scene.
Fake Wife burst onto the scene with their debut single “The Wedding,” released in October 2023. Co-produced by fellow Manchester producer Lewis Dean, known for his work with Pyncher, The Strangerz, and Cinder, the track was recorded in Salford. “The Wedding” immediately caught the attention of listeners with its lush synth landscapes and infectious melodies, setting the stage for Fake Wife’s rise in the alt-pop world.
Following the success of their debut, Fake Wife released “All You Wanted” in February 2024. This track, co-produced by Sam Cooper of samxemma, solidified their growing reputation. “All You Wanted” received national radio endorsement on BBC Radio 6, showcasing Fake Wife’s ability to resonate with a broad audience. The single’s blend of nostalgic synths and contemporary production elements struck a chord with listeners and critics alike.
Fake Wife’s latest single, “Round and Round,” released in mid-2024, marks their most mainstream pop effort to date. Described by DIY magazine as featuring “twinkling synths & propulsive, disco beats,” the track continues to establish their brand of incredibly infectious 80s-inspired pop. “Round and Round” has also received high praise on BBC Radio 6, further cementing Fake Wife’s position in the modern music landscape.
Fans of Fake Wife have even more to look forward to with the announcement of their debut EP, “Showbiz,” set for release in October 2024. This collection of tracks promises to delve deeper into their distinctive sound, blending nostalgic 80s vibes with fresh, modern pop elements.
In addition to their studio work, Fake Wife is set to perform live alongside 80s legend Peter Cox of Go West at the Citadel in St Helens on September 29th. This performance is a testament to their growing recognition and the impact of their music.
Fake Wife is not just a project but a revival of the 80s synth-wave era, reimagined for today’s audience. With a series of successful releases and high-profile live performances, Lewis James and his collaborators are well on their way to making a significant mark in the music world. Keep an eye out for their debut EP “Showbiz” this October – it promises to be a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience.
