Artist Spotlight: Hurts

Hurts is an English musical duo consisting of singer Theo Hutchcraft and synthesist Adam Anderson. Formed in 2009 in Manchester, the band quickly gained recognition for their emotionally charged lyrics and lush, 80s-inspired synth-pop sound. Hurts rose to prominence with their debut album, Happiness, in 2010, which featured hit singles like “Wonderful Life” and “Stay.” Over the years, Hurts has released multiple albums, including Exile (2013), Surrender (2015), and Desire (2017), each showcasing their evolution in musical style without losing their signature atmospheric pop sound. Their music often explores themes of love, loss, and existential contemplation. One example song from their discography is Wings, featured on their third studio album, Surrender. The track is a quintessential representation of Hurts’ ability to blend poignant lyrics with soaring, cinematic instrumentation.