Jude Cole

Jude Cole joined the British power pop band the Records in 1980, after their first album was released, and remained with the group for one album. After a few years, Cole then re-emerged with his own solo record, 1987's self-titled Jude Cole, which was a much slicker, mainstream-oriented affair than any of the Records' records. The album did have its charm, but it was unfortunately ignored. That was not the case with his second album, 1990's A View from 3rd Street, which had a bona fide hit single with the sweet, yearning "Baby, It's Tonight." Another single from the album hit the Top 40, as Cole enjoyed a surprise success. Although he wasn't able to repeat his success with the follow-up, it was another solid album of mainstream pop/rock, full of shiny hooks and sleek, memorable melodies. Cole later delved into production and other behind-the-scenes work, eventually opening the Ironworks label with actor Keifer Sutherland. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine