Unveiling the Origin of the Thompson Twins Name
The name 'Thompson Twins' has intrigued music enthusiasts and fans alike. This article explores the intriguing origins of the name and how it was inspired by a French comic book series. We will delve into the various theories and finally confirm which one is accurate.
The Myth and Beliefs
Several thoughts and theories have been bandied about regarding the name 'Thompson Twins.' The most common belief is that Thomas, the disciple mentioned in the Bible as being referred to as the twin, somehow influenced the naming. Another thought is that the name comes from the fact that the band members themselves looked like twins or shared some common characteristics. However, history and facts may provide a different explanation.
The French Comic Book Influence
A likely source of inspiration for the name 'Thompson Twins' is the French comic book characters, Thompson and Thompson, from the popular series 'The Adventures of Tintin.' These characters are two detectives who look alike but are not twins. The band could have drawn inspiration from this creative misnomer. Moreover, as Europeans, it's plausible that they grew up reading Tintin books, which were frequently translated into English. Interestingly, both Steven Spielberg and Peter Jackson adapted 'The Adventures of Tintin' into an animated film in 2011, adding to the cultural significance of the name.
Band Members and Name Origin
Thom Bailey and Alanna Currie served as the original lineup of the Thompson Twins. Interestingly, they are not twins in reality. The band's name originates from a British comic strip or comedy team, possibly drawn from the Belgian comic 'The Adventures of Tin-Tin' by Hergé. The name has a rich history, as the original band had around eight to nine members before it was reduced to a trio. During the 1990s, the band members decided to change their name to 'Babylon.'
More on the Band and Their Music
The Thompson Twins, now known as 'Babylon,' released several albums. 'Ether' is one of their standout works, specifically featuring Alanna Currie's world dance beats. The album is highly recommended and enjoyable, with some songs being slightly trippy. Fortunately, the entire album is available on YouTube, making it easy for fans to explore their unique sound.
Conclusion
The Thompson Twins, originally named after a pair of detectives from a French comic book, have a fascinating and intriguing story behind their name. While the band members are not twins in the biological sense, the name cleverly references a fictional character that shares their visual similarity. This insight into the naming origin offers a deeper appreciation for the band's history and the creative forces behind it.