Bernard Sumner

The Pioneer of the New Order: Bernard Sumner

Bernard Sumner, an English musician, vocalist, and songwriter born on January 4, 1956, is best known for being a founding member of the bands Joy Division and New Order. Sumner has made significant contributions to electronic music, post-punk, and alternative music with his distinctive guitar playing, diverse vocals, and contributions.

Bernard Sumner was born and raised in Manchester, England, where he discovered his love for music at a young age. Together with Ian Curtis, Peter Hook, and Stephen Morris, he co-founded Joy Division in 1976. Sumner's inventive guitar playing set the band apart from their peers with their dark, atmospheric sound.

The Tragic Change from Joy Division to New Order:

After the sudden death of Ian Curtis in 1980, Joy Division split up and reformed as New Order. When Sumner assumed the lead vocalist position, the band started infusing electronic sounds into their songs. The groundwork for their enduring fusion of post-punk and electronic music was formed by this progression, which represented a dramatic shift in their sound.

Influence and Success of New Order:

Under Sumner's direction, New Order enjoyed great success and rose to prominence as one of the most influential bands of the 1980s and beyond. They paved the way for innumerable musicians and genres with their blend of guitar-driven rock and electronic dance music. Hits like "Bizarre Love Triangle" and "Blue Monday" demonstrated Sumner's skill as a songwriter and the band's ongoing appeal.

Collaborations and Side Projects:

In addition to his work with Joy Division and New Order, Bernard Sumner has collaborated with various artists and pursued side projects. He formed the band Electronic with Johnny Marr of The Smiths and also collaborated with Pet Shop Boys, contributing vocals to their hit single "Getting Away with It."

Interesting Facts:

1. Bernard Sumner is known for his distinctive guitar playing style, characterized by his use of a sequencer and effects pedals to create unique sounds.
2. He has embraced new technologies throughout his career, experimenting with synthesizers and drum machines to push the boundaries of music.
3. Sumner has been recognized for his contributions to the Manchester music scene and was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Music accolade at the 2005 NME Awards.
4. He published his autobiography, "Chapter and Verse: New Order, Joy Division and Me," in 2014, providing insights into his musical journey and personal experiences.

Bernard Sumner's impact on the music industry as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter is immeasurable. From his early days with Joy Division to his pioneering work with New Order, he has continuously pushed boundaries and explored new sonic territories. Sumner's innovative approach to blending rock and electronic music has shaped the alternative music landscape and solidified his place as a true innovator in the industry.