From 'Walk Like an Egyptian' to Instagram: Susanna Hoffs' Journey of Graceful Aging
The Eternal Flame of Susanna Hoffs: A Rock 'n' Roll Legend Still Burning Bright
In a era where many stars are fading with age, one iconic singer has proven that she's still got it - and then some! Meet Susanna Hoffs, the lead vocalist and guitarist of The Bangles, who's been slaying the game for decades with her timeless hits and effortlessly cool style.
At 65, Hoffs is more than just a nostalgic blast from the past. She's a beloved fixture on Instagram, where fans adore her refreshing, makeup-free aesthetic and unfiltered updates that showcase her down-to-earth personality. But it's not just her online presence that's keeping her relevant - she's also still performing, and recently revisited one of her most iconic ballads, Eternal Flame, with a brand new recording.
The Making of an Icon
Eternal Flame was written by Hoffs herself, but its journey to becoming a global smash was far from smooth sailing. Initially rejected by her bandmates, the song almost didn't make it into the light of day - and we can only imagine how different music history would be if that had been the case! Thankfully, the track eventually saw the light, winning the ASCAP Pop Award for Most Performed Song in 1990.
But what's even more fascinating is Hoffs' behind-the-scenes secrets about recording the hit. In a candid 2012 interview, she confessed that she recorded Eternal Flame while naked - yes, you read that right! Producer Davitt Sigerson allegedly convinced her to try this unconventional approach, claiming it was how Olivia Newton-John achieved her famously emotional performances.
From Rock Star to Author and Beyond
Today, Hoffs' career is more diverse than ever. She's not just a singer-songwriter, but also an author, releasing her novel, This Bird Has Flown, in 2023 - which The New York Times dubbed "the smart, ferocious rock-chick redemption romance you didn't know you needed." Talk about a multi-talented superwoman!
But Hoffs' personal life is just as fascinating. Married to acclaimed director Jay Roach (yes, the same guy who directed Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me!) since 1993, she shares two sons with him - both of whom have followed in their father's footsteps into the film business.
Breaking Out of a Fashion Rut
In one of her most recent Instagram videos, Hoffs revealed that she's trying to shake off her "uniform" of black pants, a sweater, and a button-down shirt. Who wouldn't want to see more of this style icon's creative side? We're loving the fresh direction she's taking on social media - and we can't wait to see what's next!
A Life of Music, Love, and Legacy
As Hoffs reflects on her enduring legacy, it's clear that she's still deeply moved by the impact of Eternal Flame. "I've been touched time and again by stories from friends and strangers alike who've expressed how much this song has meant to them," she shares. "Whether it played at their wedding or brought consolation in difficult times... I'm still that same girl with that same emotion - older, and hopefully wiser."
With her latest album, The Deep End (2023), and her novel, This Bird Has Flown (2023), solidifying her status as a creative force to be reckoned with, it's clear that Hoffs is more than just a one-hit wonder. She's an icon who's still burning bright - and we can't wait to see what she does next!