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Ron Mael: the quiet genius behind one of the most inventive and enduring musical partnerships in pop history celebrates his 80th year on this planet today – 12th August 2025.
Sparks
Of course, I’m talking about Sparks. I’ve written about Sparks earlier in this website’s existence and the fact that I am a fan of their work. And whilst there is no denying the esoteric brilliance of Russell’s singing, performance and delivery, it’s always been Ron that has held me in awe and captivated me for the last 50-odd years.
In 1974 I first clapped eyes on Ron’s “Charlie Chaplin” moustache on Top of the Pops. That first impression: the quirky looks, the mock aggravation at being filmed, was the start of that fascination with Ron Mael that hasn’t waned one bit over the last 50 years.
It took me a fair while to realise his genius, however. I learnt a valuable lesson some considerable time ago about the value of listening to song lyrics. And there is nothing more rewarding than listening (and attempting to interpret) a set of Ron Mael lyrics.
And these are lyrics incidentally, that can reveal new insights into them every time you listen. There aren’t many songwriters who can consistently write such magnificent works of art – and if there are I’m willing to bet they are few and far between.
When do I get to eat my cake?
And so cheers to Ronnie Mael. 80 years of creativity, wit, idiosyncrasy, and brilliance. Here’s wishing Ron a few more laps around the sun, long may he reign as the king of Sparks.
Happy Birthday, Ron.
