The Evolution of The Human League: From Board Games to Rock Stardom

The 1980s were a golden era for rock bands, and none more so than The Human League. As a British electronic band that pioneered the synthwave genre, The Human League brought a unique blend of electronic music and industrial beats that captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide. However, the story of this band’s name has an intriguing backstory that traces back to a specific science fiction board game.

A Sci-Fi Connection

The inspiration for The Human League’s name originated from aboard game called StarForce: Alpha Centauri, which was originally published in 1974 by Simulations Publications Inc. (SPI). The game is a classic in the realm of science fiction board games, where players control factions of interstellar colonies set in the 25th century. In this scenario, one of the factions is called “The Human League,” which left a lasting impression on the band's members.

Inspiration Behind the Name

It's said that the band’s creative leader, Phil Oakey, discovered this board game and found the name “The Human League” to be a fitting choice for the band. Prior to Oakey joining the band, they were known under a different name -The Future. This name change signified a shift in their identity and musical direction, aligning more closely with the electronic and futuristic sound that became The Human League's signature style.

Other Sci-Fi Inspired Bands

The Human League was not the only band inspired by science fiction in the 1980s. Another prominent band, Duran Duran, adopted its name from the character Durand Durand in the film Barbarella. This demonstrates a common trend among 1980s rock bands to draw inspiration from the vast and imaginative world of science fiction. Both bands showcased a keen interest in electronics and the future, which is evident in their music and imagery.

From Board Game to Band

The evolution of The Human League from The Future to “The Human League” reflects a significant shift in the band's musical style and aspirations. The band members’ shared interest in science fiction board games contributed to a cohesive yet unique identity. Moreover, the game StarForce: Alpha Centauri provided a much more intriguing and relevant name for a band that was at the forefront of the evolving electronic music scene.

Conclusion

While The Human League is a household name today, its origin story is undoubtedly one of inspiration and creativity. From a generic name to a name that resonates with the future and the vast expanse of the universe, the band's name change reflects their journey from an up-and-coming group to a legendary act that continues to influence the electronic music scene. Their dedication to pursuing unique inspirations, such as a science fiction board game, contributed to their lasting legacy in the world of music.