Jude Cole

In 1980, following the release of the British power pop band's debut, Jude Cole became a member of the Records and stayed on board just long enough to contribute to a single LP. Several years later, he launched his solo career via the 1987 self-titled effort Jude Cole, an album far more polished and aimed at mainstream listeners compared to his prior group's output. Although this release possessed certain appealing qualities, it failed to attract attention. Success arrived instead with 1990's A View from 3rd Street, propelled by the genuine chart-topping track, the tender and wistful "Baby, It's Tonight." A second single from that project also reached the Top 40, marking an unexpected breakthrough for Cole. His subsequent album could not match that level of popularity, yet it remained a strong collection of mainstream pop/rock distinguished by its glistening hooks and smooth, catchy tunes. Eventually turning toward production and other non-performing roles, Cole went on to co-found the Ironworks label alongside actor Keifer Sutherland.