The End of The Human League: An Hour Ago, Philip Oakey, Susan Ann Sulley, and Joanne Catherall Publicly Announce Their Retirement Following Their Health Issues and Personal Decisions.
In a heartfelt announcement earlier today, iconic synthpop pioneers The Human League confirmed they are officially retiring from the music scene after decades of influencing and shaping the world of electronic music. Philip Oakey, Susan Ann Sulley, and Joanne Catherall, the core members of the legendary band, made the news public through a joint statement shared on social media, citing health concerns and personal reasons as the driving force behind their decision.
“We have been incredibly fortunate to have had such an amazing journey together,” said the trio in the statement. “But after careful reflection and discussions, we have decided it is time to step away from the stage and take care of ourselves. The decision comes with heavy hearts, but we know it is the right one.”
The announcement marks the end of an era for The Human League, a band that achieved global success in the late ’70s and early ’80s with their groundbreaking albums, including *Dare* (1981), which featured hits like “Don’t You Want Me” and “Love Action.” Known for their forward-thinking use of synthesizers and distinctive sound, The Human League helped define the new wave and electronic music movements.
Over the past few years, the band members had been dealing with various health issues that had made touring and performing increasingly difficult. While Oakey, Sulley, and Catherall had continued to perform sporadically, their recent struggles with their health had led them to reconsider the demands of a touring lifestyle.
“We’ve had some personal challenges recently that have made us rethink everything,” Oakey explained in the statement. “It’s not just about the music; it’s about taking the time to focus on ourselves, our families, and our well-being. We owe it to our fans to be transparent about where we are at in our lives.”
The band’s groundbreaking influence on pop music and their legions of devoted fans will forever remember their vibrant performances, their forward-thinking music videos, and the unforgettable hits they brought to the airwaves. But as Oakey, Sulley, and Catherall move into the next chapter of their lives, they expressed gratitude for the opportunities music had provided them.
“We’ve seen the world, met incredible people, and shared the stage with talented musicians—something many could only dream of,” said Sulley. “We are so proud of the legacy we’ve created, and we’ll always treasure the memories of the amazing times we had together as a band.”
The Human League has not indicated whether this retirement will be permanent, but for now, fans are left with a deep sense of respect for the contributions the band made to both pop and electronic music.
As news of their retirement spreads, tributes have already started pouring in from fellow musicians and fans alike, with many expressing gratitude for the band’s lasting impact. The Human League’s final performances and recordings will live on as a testament to their place in music history.
“We may be stepping away from the spotlight, but our music will continue to live on in the hearts of our fans,” Oakey concluded. “Thank you for the incredible journey.”
