For KGNU’s Afternoon Sound Alternative, Keith Colligan catches up with the singer and songwriter behind A Flock of Seagulls, who reflects on the band’s unexpected four-decade career, their enduring popularity in the U.S., and what keeps them on the road. He also talks about the appeal of ’80s nostalgia tours, performing alongside fellow new wave favorites including Thomas Dolby, and why fans of all ages can enjoy the upcoming festival. (Air Date 7/2/2026).
Listen to the interview here:
Transcript:
Keith Colligan: I’m sure some of our listeners remember A Flock of Seagulls, but you’re still out there doing it. You’re the guy, right?
A Flock of Seagulls: Yeah. I was the singer, and I wrote the songs. I had a great time, and I’m still having a great time. I’m not going to give it up until it stops being fun, if you know what I mean.
Keith Colligan: That’s good. It’s nice to be able to make a lifetime out of something as beautiful as music.
A Flock of Seagulls: Yeah. I never expected it to last 40-odd years. I thought it might last 45 minutes. Life does funny things. When we came to America, it changed our perspective on time because America is so big. You can keep playing all over the country for years. That’s basically how we came here and stayed. It’s been a beautiful place.
Keith Colligan: That’s great. You’re still getting a lot of love here, right?
A Flock of Seagulls: Yeah. We’re touring all the time. We do one-off shows, festivals, small clubs, big clubs, and ’80s retrospective tours. It all works out great. As long as I don’t fall over, I’ll be there doing it.
Keith Colligan: That’s good to hear. You’ve got this big music festival coming up. Most of the time you’re touring with just your band, but on this tour you’re sharing the stage with other acts, right?
A Flock of Seagulls: Yeah. The other bands on the tour are great. We know them all because we’ve toured with them before.
Keith Colligan: That’s nice.
A Flock of Seagulls: Thomas Dolby is headlining it, and he’s a good guy. He’s put his original band back together for this tour, so it’ll really feel like a step back in time. The shows go over so well because everybody knows the songs and the bands. It’s the kind of concert where you don’t have to sit through a lot of new material before hearing the hits.
Keith Colligan: I’m sure people come out just for that.
A Flock of Seagulls: They do, and they can bring their kids. It’s not a dark, drunken affair. It’s a fun festival with some great bands, and it’s well organized. It’s worth coming out for. I recommend it to anyone who enjoys A Flock of Seagulls or Thomas Dolby.
Keith Colligan: And bring your grandkids.
A Flock of Seagulls: Bring your grandparents as well.
Keith Colligan: I love it. I’m going to give away some tickets. Good luck with everything, and I’m glad you called in.
A Flock of Seagulls: Thank you. We’ll speak again sometime.
Keith Colligan: All right.
A Flock of Seagulls: Bye-bye. Thanks a lot.
