From the heartbreak of a bandmate’s rejection of what would become a global sensation to embracing a new path as a novelist, Susanna Hoffs of The Bangles continues to captivate. Her enduring journey reflects a powerful commitment to creative expression, proving that true artistry thrives through every challenge.
For fans of The Bangles, the iconic 1980s all-girl band, the story of their greatest hit, “Eternal Flame,” is as captivating as the song itself. Susanna Hoffs, the legendary singer-songwriter, recently unveiled the surprising truth: the track almost never saw the light of day. This revelation offers a glimpse into the perseverance and passion that have defined Hoffs’ remarkable career, spanning decades of musical innovation and now, a new chapter as a novelist.
The Untold Story of “Eternal Flame’s” Near Rejection
Imagine carrying a song you poured your heart into, believing in its magic, only to have your bandmates dismiss it. This was the mortifying reality for Susanna Hoffs when she first presented “Eternal Flame” to The Bangles. Hoffs recounted her dismay, explaining that bandmates Vicki Peterson, Debbi Peterson, and Micki Steele initially didn’t want the song included in their third album, “Everything.”
“The band rejected that song, and I was bereft over it, I was like mortified,” Hoffs shared in an interview with The Mirror. She had been so excited about the track that she carried the cassette everywhere, eagerly asking people to listen to her new creation. The pressure was compounded by the album’s song allocation policy, which entitled each of the four members to contribute three songs, a system Hoffs described as “conscripted, almost anxiety-inducing.”
Fortunately, fate intervened. Halfway through the album’s production, the producer recognized the song’s potential and suggested its inclusion. Hoffs enthusiastically agreed, a decision that would prove pivotal. “I had no idea it would end up being the biggest hit,” she admitted, reflecting on the song’s eventual monumental success.
A Career Defined by Hits and Creative Evolution
Susanna Hoffs’ musical journey began long before “Eternal Flame.” Born in Los Angeles, California, to a film director mother and a psychoanalyst father, Hoffs developed a passion for music early on. Influenced by her mother’s love for The Beatles and her own exposure to punk rock, she picked up the guitar as a teenager. After attending the University of California, Berkeley, she pursued music, forming the group The Bangs with Debbi and Vicki Peterson, which later became The Bangles due to a naming conflict.
The Bangles quickly rose to prominence as one of the most successful female bands of all time, delivering a string of hits including “Walk Like an Egyptian,” “Manic Monday,” and of course, “Eternal Flame.” Despite their success, internal tensions, partly stemming from Hoffs being singled out as the lead singer, led to the band’s disbandment in 1989.
Hoffs then embarked on a solo career, releasing several albums. Her debut solo album, “When You’re a Boy,” featured the Top 40 hit “My Side of the Bed.” Her second album, “Susanna Hoffs” (1996), garnered enthusiastic reviews for its “remarkably accomplished and catchy collection of mature jangle-pop, power-pop and ballads,” as praised by AllMusic, and was noted by Entertainment Weekly for Hoffs performing “a small act of bravery.”
Her collaborative spirit also shone through her “Under the Covers” series with Matthew Sweet, where they reimagined classic rock songs from the 1960s and 70s. Hoffs even formed the faux band Ming Tea with Matthew Sweet and Mike Myers, appearing in all three Austin Powers films, the first of which was directed by her husband, Jay Roach. This collaboration also led to a significant Bangles reunion in 1999 to record “Get the Girl” for “Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me.”
A New Chapter: Author, Motivator, and Enduring Artist
Beyond music, Susanna Hoffs has ventured into the literary world with her debut novel, “This Bird Has Flown,” released in spring 2023. The book centers on Jane Smart, a former one-hit wonder navigating a life post-fame, drawing on Hoffs’ own extensive experience in the music industry. “It’s a world I know well. I’ve known the ups and I’ve known the downs,” she stated.
The motivation behind this new creative endeavor came from her son, Jackson, who encouraged her to pursue her dream of writing a novel. His continuous support, from the initial nudge to physically sending the manuscript to the publisher, proved instrumental.
Hoffs continues to engage with her music, recently releasing a new solo version of “Eternal Flame.” She expressed deep gratitude, fighting back tears as she re-recorded the song that has touched so many lives. She cherishes stories from fans who share how the song marked significant moments in their lives, reaffirming her lifelong passion.
The Bangles’ Enduring Legacy and Hoffs’ Ongoing Connection
The Bangles, who officially reformed in the late 1990s, have continued to tour and release music, including their 2003 album “Doll Revolution” and 2011’s “Sweetheart of the Sun.” Despite lineup changes, including the departure of Michael Steele, the band’s influence remains strong.
Hoffs’ ongoing connection with her audience is evident in her continued performances and her engagement with fans, whether through makeup-free selfies or dancing videos shared on social media. She also inducted The Zombies into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2019, showcasing her deep appreciation for music history. Her journey is a testament to an artist who consistently seeks new ways to create, connect, and inspire, proving that her flame, like the song, is truly eternal.
