Gary Anthony James Webb, born on March 8, 1958, is an influential English singer, songwriter, and musician, widely recognized by his stage name, Gary Numan. He first gained prominence as the frontman of the new wave band Tubeway Army, which made a significant impact on the music scene in the late 1970s.
The band's second and final album, 'Replicas,' released in 1979, soared to the top of the UK Albums Chart, featuring the iconic single 'Are 'Friends' Electric?' that also reached No. 1. Following the disbandment of Tubeway Army, Numan launched his solo career with the debut album 'The Pleasure Principle,' which was released later that same year. This album not only topped the UK charts but also produced another chart-topping hit, 'Cars.'
Despite his commercial success peaking during the late 1970s and early 1980s, Numan has cultivated a dedicated cult following over the years, selling over ten million records worldwide. He is celebrated as a pioneer of electronic music, known for his innovative sound characterized by heavy synthesizer hooks and guitar effects, as well as his distinctive voice and androgynous 'android' persona.
In recognition of his contributions to music, Numan received the Inspiration Award from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers, and Authors in 2017. His artistic journey continues to evolve, with a notable performance at the Glastonbury Festival scheduled for June 2025.