Howard Jones, Modern English, The English Beat & Wang Chung Shine at the Greek Theatre
Howard Jones closed the night of the “Things Can Only Get Better” at the Greek Theatre in LA. Photo Credit: FCM
Last night at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, time seemed to stand still—in the best possible way. The "Things Can Only Get Better" tour brought together four legendary acts—Modern English, The English Beat, Wang Chung, and Howard Jones—for an evening that proved great music doesn't age; it evolves while retaining everything that made it unforgettable in the first place. The tour has been celebrating the enduring legacy of these iconic artists across North America, and the Los Angeles stop felt like one of its defining nights.
From the opening notes of Modern English to Howard Jones' triumphant finale, the night wasn't simply about revisiting the past—it was about celebrating artists who continue to perform at an incredibly high level. Each band sounded remarkably close to their studio recordings while adding the confidence, chemistry, and musicianship that only decades of live performance can bring.
Modern English immediately set the tone with shimmering guitars, atmospheric keyboards, and a performance that reminded everyone why their catalog extends far beyond the timeless "I Melt With You." Their sound remained rich and expansive, proving they are far more than a nostalgic favorite—they're still a compelling live band.
The English Beat on stage at the Greek Theatre in LA. Photo Credit: FCM
The English Beat brought an infectious energy that had the Greek Theatre moving almost instantly. Their signature blend of ska, reggae, pop, and new wave was as vibrant as ever, with tight musicianship and an undeniable groove that felt impossible to resist. Songs that have lived on radio playlists for decades suddenly felt brand new again, thanks to a performance filled with charisma and joy.
Wang Chung perform their hits at the Greek Theatre in LA. Photo Credit: Amy Whitley
Wang Chung delivered one of the night's biggest surprises. Their set was packed with soaring vocals, polished musicianship, and infectious enthusiasm. Hits like "Everybody Have Fun Tonight" and "Dance Hall Days" weren't simply performed—they became communal celebrations, with thousands singing every word. The band demonstrated that great songwriting transcends eras, standing comfortably alongside today's biggest live acts without missing a beat.
Howard Jones closed the evening with the poise and optimism that have always defined his music. His unmistakable voice remains strong, expressive, and emotionally engaging, while his keyboard work showcased the artistry that made him one of synth-pop's defining innovators. Classics including "No One Is to Blame," "Life in One Day," and the uplifting "Things Can Only Get Better" transformed the amphitheater into one massive sing-along, reminding everyone why his songs continue to resonate across generations.
One of the evening's most effective production elements was the use of the massive background video screens. Throughout each performance, vintage music videos, archival concert footage, and classic imagery seamlessly blended with live camera feeds, creating a visual bridge between the artists' groundbreaking years on MTV and their commanding presence on stage today. Rather than feeling like a nostalgia gimmick, the visuals reinforced just how timeless these performers remain. Watching decades-old footage while seeing the same artists confidently commanding the stage in real time was genuinely moving.
What made the night especially memorable wasn't just hearing beloved songs again—it was realizing how exceptionally these musicians have preserved their artistry. Their vocals, instrumental performances, and stage presence remain world-class. Far from being "legacy acts," these bands demonstrated they can still command a stage with the same passion, precision, and authenticity that first earned them devoted audiences.
In an era dominated by elaborate productions and digital enhancements, Howard Jones, Modern English, The English Beat, and Wang Chung reminded everyone that timeless songwriting, genuine musicianship, and authentic performances never go out of style. They don't simply deserve to be remembered alongside today's biggest artists—they deserve to be mentioned in the very same conversation.
For one unforgettable night beneath the stars at the Greek Theatre, the soundtrack of the '80s wasn't relived—it was very much alive.