Curt Smith's Life Beyond Tears For Fears: Wives, Family & More
What defines the narrative of a life lived both in the incandescent glow of stardom and the quieter corners of personal devotion? The story of Curt Smith, the English musician known for co-founding Tears for Fears, is one such narrative, interwoven with threads of both musical success and the private relationships that have shaped his journey.
Born on June 24, 1961, Curt Smith's journey began in Bath, England, where he grew up and attended Beechen Cliff School. His early life, marked by experiences such as living on the Snow Hill council estate, later found its way into the band's music. Alongside childhood friend Roland Orzabal, Smith formed Tears for Fears, a band that would go on to define the 1980s music scene. Their debut single, "Suffer the Children," released in 1981, marked the start of a successful career. The band achieved widespread recognition, securing a place in the UK charts with their third single, "Mad World," and creating a string of hits that resonated globally.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Curt Michael Smith |
| Date of Birth | June 24, 1961 |
| Place of Birth | Bath, England |
| Nationality | English, Naturalized U.S. Citizen |
| Known For | Co-founding Tears for Fears |
| Education | Beechen Cliff School |
| Marriages | Lynda "Lynne" Altman (1982-1988), Frances Pennington (June 29, 1996 - Present) |
| Children | Diva (born 1999), Wilder (born 2000/2001) |
| Solo Albums | Four released |
| Associated Acts | Tears for Fears, Roland Orzabal |
| Residence | Los Angeles |
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Smith's life has been marked by significant personal transitions. He has been married twice. His first marriage was to Lynda "Lynne" Altman in 1982. Their marriage ended in divorce in 1988. Following the divorce, Smith began a relationship with marketing executive Frances Pennington. They married on June 29, 1996, and currently reside in Los Angeles with their two daughters, Diva and Wilder, born in 1999 and 2000 or 2001.
The death of Roland Orzabal's wife had a profound impact, bringing the bandmates closer, leading to 'The Tipping Point,' their first album in seventeen years. The album, marked by the return of a song first included in Tears for Fears' 2017 compilation, "Rule the World: The Greatest Hits," showcases the enduring bond between Orzabal and Smith, and also features contributions from Orzabal's new wife, Emily Rath Orzabal, reflecting the ongoing evolution of their personal and professional lives. This project highlights the intimate interplay between the band's music and the events that shape their lives.
Smith's life and career have intertwined with various figures and experiences, including his friendship with Roland Orzabal, his relationships with his wives, and the changing landscape of the music industry. Smith met Orzabal in their teens, setting the stage for their future collaboration. Furthermore, Smith's relationship with Frances Pennington has been a central aspect of his life since their marriage in 1996. Frances is also good friends with Gela Nash, the wife of Duran Duran's bassist, John Taylor.
The dynamics of his personal life have had significant impact on his career. Smith has repeatedly expressed his discomfort with the trappings of fame, which included a desire for privacy and a disinclination to be defined solely by his association with Tears for Fears. This preference, coupled with a personal shift that occurred during the "Seeds" era, prompted his move to New York, seeking a separation from the public persona of "Curt Smith of Tears for Fears."
The band's touring life has changed significantly since its heyday in the 1980s, illustrating the evolution of the industry and the personal adaptations required. Moreover, the creative process behind their music, which includes recording periods stretching over years, underscores the dedication and meticulous attention to detail that have characterized Tears for Fears' discography. The fact that Smith is now a naturalized U.S. citizen underscores his extensive connection to the United States.
Moreover, Smith's musical output extends beyond his work with Tears for Fears, with his solo projects comprising of four studio albums. Smith's love for sports is also known: he supports Manchester United and LAFC, highlighting his interests beyond music.
The evolution of the relationship between Smith and Orzabal over time. After the death of Orzabal's wife, Caroline, the two bandmates experienced a re-connection. This closeness eventually led to the creation of new music and touring experiences.
The creation of The Tipping Point marks a pivotal moment in their journey. Smith's second marriage, to Frances Pennington, has been a lasting relationship, beginning in 1996 and continuing into the present. This relationship is a key component of Smith's personal journey, providing stability and influence in his life. Furthermore, his daughters, Diva and Wilder, have added a new dynamic to their lives, fostering a family life in Los Angeles.
Despite the challenges and transitions, Smith's journey has remained a story of artistic achievement, personal evolution, and the enduring influence of his personal relationships. His life serves as an example of how the complexities of human experience, the heights of musical success, and the depth of personal relationships shape the essence of an individual.
