Members
Select a Toyah band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Toyah is a dynamic English band that emerged from the late 1970s punk and new wave scene, fronted by the charismatic Toyah Willcox. The group was co-founded by Joel Bogen (guitar), with significant contributions from Pete Bush in the early years. Over time, the band evolved its lineup but retained a core of energetic and eclectic influence, blending genres such as New Wave, Synthpop, Gothic rock, and Punk. Known for their theatrical performances and pioneering sound, Toyah achieved mainstream success with hits like "I Want to Be Free" and "It's a Mystery," making a significant mark on the UK charts in the early '80s.
How to Sound Like Toyah
Toyah's sound is characterized by its vivid, theatrical energy and eclectic sonic palette. The music often incorporates sharp, angular guitar riffs paired with synth-driven melodies, creating a balance between the raw edge of punk and the polished sheen of synthpop. The band’s use of bold, dynamic drumming, as exemplified by the driving force of the British Drum Co. Legend Series, and expressive cymbals like the Paiste 22'' Stewart Copeland Signature Blue Bell Ride, provide a powerful rhythmic backbone. Toyah’s music thrives on dramatic contrasts and vibrant textures, allowing for both anthemic choruses and introspective moments, capturing the spirited essence of the New Wave era.
Discography
Sheep Farming In Barnet
1979
Toyah! Toyah! Toyah! (Live) [2022 Remaster]
1980
The Blue Meaning
1980
Four More From Toyah (40th Anniversary Edition) [2022 Remaster]
1981
Anthem
1981
The Changeling
1982
Warrior Rock: Toyah On Tour (Live, Hammersmith Odeon)
1982
Warrior Rock: Toyah On Tour [(Deluxe Edition) [2024 Remaster]]
1982
Love Is The Law
1983
Minx
1985
Desire
1987
Prostitute
1988
Ophelia's Shadow
1991
Kiss of Reality (2019 Remaster)
1993
Take the Leap!
1993
The Acoustic Album
1994
Dreamchild
1995
Live & More
1998
Mayhem
2005
We Are the Humans
2009
Sugar Rush
2011
Strange Tales
2015
In the Court of the Crimson Queen (Deluxe Edition)
2019
Rare, Remixed & Revisited
2020
Live at Scala London
2021
Live at Trading Boundaries, East Sussex, 11.04.2015
2021
Posh Pop
2021
Live At The Rainbow
2022
Live At Drury Lane
2023
Get the Toyah Sound
Want to sound like Toyah? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.