Peter Byrne, founder and singer of the British new wave band Naked Eyes, died on Sept. 14 in Los Angeles. He was 74.
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Jim Merlis, a spokesperson for the group, confirmed Byrne's death, adding that he died "peacefully ... after a brief illness." A specific cause of death was not immediately available.
Byrne founded Naked Eyes in 1982 with his college friend Rob Fisher. Their debut album "Burning Bridges" reached No. 32 on the Billboard 200. Across their two studio albums in 1983 and 1984, the duo achieved four Top 40 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, including "Always Something There to Remind Me," which peaked at Number Eight on the Billboard Hot 100
Naked Eyes never toured and disbanded after their second album.
During a 2002 interview with New Beats, Byrne said of the band's decision to split in the 1980s despite their commercial success, "After living and writing together 24 hours a day for four or five years, we needed a break from each other. Record companies change. People that sign you move on. New people come in."
As a solo artist, Byrne provided backing vocals on Stevie Wonder's 1985 hit "Part-Time Lover." Byrne also wrote songs for film, television and for the Olsen twins.
Peter Byrne Blossomed in the 80s
Born in Islington, North London, Byrne began his musical career in Bath, England. He formed a duo with Jeff Starrs from 1976 to 1977 and the band Studio from 1977 to 1979.
Byrne later joined Neon, a group that included Rob Fisher as well as future Tears for Fears members Neil Taylor, Manny Elias, Curt Smith and Roland Orzabal.
In 2001, he released a solo album, The Real Illusion, before reforming Naked Eyes in 2005.
The revamped group released "Fumbling with the Covers" in 2007, "Disguise the Limit" in 2021 and a remaster of the original "Naked Eyes" self-titled album in 2025.
Peter is survived by his siblings Eileen, Sandy, Carol and Steve; his three children, Merlin, Dylan and Chloe; and his ex-wife, Elena.
According to the provided statement, those wishing to pay their respects are encouraged to support Byrne's music. Condolences can also be posted on the Naked Eyes website.
