Daily spins This Day in Music

Warren Cann

Warren Cann is a Canadian musician and songwriter best known as the drummer and co-founder of the influential new wave band Ultravox. Born on December 31, 1950, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Cann played a pivotal role in shaping the band's sound, particularly with the use of electronic instruments and innovative drumming techniques. Ultravox, formed in 1973, gained prominence in the late 1970s and early 1980s, especially with their albums "Systems of Romance" (1978) and "Vienna" (1980). The latter featured the iconic title track, which became a defining song of the era. Cann's contributions were instrumental in the band’s success, blending rock with synthesizer-driven pop, which helped to define the new wave genre. Warren Cann's impact on music extends beyond Ultravox; his pioneering use of electronic drums and percussion in rock music influenced many artists in the synth-pop and electronic genres. After Ultravox, he pursued solo projects and collaborations, continuing to innovate within the music industry. His work remains significant in the landscape of 1980s music, marking a transition towards more electronic sounds in popular music.

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