Howard Jones Embarks on New Tour, Reflects on Timeless Hippie Ideals and Inspiring Positive Change

Howard Jones, the pioneering 1980s synth-pop icon, is back on tour, and with his upcoming album, “Global Citizen,” he is reflecting on the hippie ideals that influenced his formative years. Jones’ journey into music was sparked by his epiphany at 15 when he watched the 1970 documentary film “Woodstock.” This pivotal moment, followed by witnessing Jimi Hendrix perform at the Isle of Wight festival in England the same year, left an indelible mark on his perspective and artistic vision.

Jones’ connection to the hippie movement is more nuanced than a straightforward label. While he had long hair during his time at music college, which might suggest a hippie aesthetic, his dedication to classical piano repertoire for nine hours a day sets him apart. After college, he cut his hair short and began to think differently, but the philosophical underpinnings of the hippie era—peace, love, and unity—have remained influential. The complexity of the hippie legacy, marked by both peaceful gatherings like Woodstock in 1969 and riots in 1999, underscores the mixed bag of outcomes from the ideals of the time.

The forthcoming album, “Global Citizen,” and its first single, “Stand Up,” released on July 9, embody Jones’ commitment to encouraging listeners to strive for a better world through non-violent opposition to authoritarianism. “Stand Up” will be featured as the opening number on his “Things Can Only Get Better” tour, which includes Wang Chung, English Beat, and Modern English. This tour curates a lineup that not only showcases Jones’ enduring appeal but also his ability to collaborate and inspire across generations.

The inspiration for “Stand Up” comes, in part, from the Rev. Jesse Jackson’s 1972 poem “Stand Up, Black Man,” a piece that Jones finds profoundly brilliant. The poem’s message of unity, challenging the fear of difference, resonates deeply with Jones. He believes that recognizing and embracing our shared humanity is key to overcoming conflict and fostering a more compassionate society. The song “Stand Up” is a call to action, urging individuals to have confidence in their beliefs and to challenge disrespectful behavior without aggression.

Jones’ career, now spanning five decades, is a testament to his ability to evolve while remaining true to his artistic vision. From his first single, “New Song,” in 1983, to his debut album, “Human’s Lib,” in 1984, Jones has consistently produced music that resonates with a wide audience. His success in the UK, with six Top 10 singles between 1983 and 1986, and his impact in the US, particularly with “No One Is To Blame” reaching No. 4 on the Billboard charts, highlight his enduring influence.

An interesting anecdote from his performances in San Diego, where he first opened for Joe Jackson in 1984, involves the tradition of fans throwing jigsaw puzzle pieces on stage during “No One Is To Blame.” This unique tradition, which started in the 1980s, has become an integral part of his shows in the city, symbolizing the interactive and playful relationship between Jones and his audience.

As Howard Jones continues his tour and prepares for the release of “Global Citizen,” his reflections on the hippie ideals of his youth serve as a reminder of the power of music to inspire positive change. In an era where authoritarianism and division are increasingly prevalent, Jones’ message of standing up for what is right, without aggression, is more timely than ever. His legacy as a musician and his commitment to promoting unity and peace through his art underscore the lasting impact of the hippie movement’s core ideals.