With the release of Future Past, Duran Duran once again channels their knack for reinvention, striking a balance between honoring their legacy and chasing fresh sonic terrain. Simon Le Bon, reflecting on the record, suggests the title isn’t about being retrospective but rather capturing the inevitability of moving forward. “We want our music to surprise people,” he explains. Future Past is an evolution of the band’s 2015 Paper Gods, taking its experimental ethos even further. “After All You Need Is Now, our ‘80s homage, we knew we had to do something different,” says Le Bon. The new album, with its atmospheric sounds and unexpected collaborators, stands as a testament to their ongoing reinvention.
The album’s eclectic roster of collaborators includes Blur’s Graham Coxon, brought in by producer Erol Alkan. “Graham’s guitar style added an unexpected edge, something we hadn’t done before,” says Le Bon, thrilled by the fresh energy Coxon brought to tracks like “Tonight United.” Alkan, meanwhile, played a central role in shaping the album’s edgy, layered production. Longtime Bowie pianist Mike Garson also brought a soulful texture, especially on the haunting track “Falling” and the band’s evocative cover of Bowie’s “Five Years.” For Le Bon, Bowie’s legacy remains a powerful influence, a source of both inspiration and kinship in the pop culture cosmos.
The timing couldn’t be better for Duran Duran’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. For Le Bon and the rest of the band, the acknowledgment is especially meaningful in the U.S., where Duran Duran has always enjoyed a loyal fan base. “It’s a big deal,” he admits, noting that half of their career shows have been in North America. They’ve hinted at a performance with special appearances, possibly from former members and longtime friends, which will make the ceremony even more of a celebratory full-circle moment.
As they look ahead to a massive tour, Le Bon and Duran Duran are reminded of their rich legacy, underscored by the iconic Rio album, which turns 40 this year. Tracks like “Hungry Like the Wolf” and “Save a Prayer” remain live-show staples, anchoring their setlist and maintaining a timeless appeal. Yet for Le Bon, there’s no pressure to revisit past glory too heavily. “I like to look forward,” he says, hinting that the journey is still very much ongoing. With Future Past and a Rock Hall induction, Duran Duran proves that reinvention isn’t just a phase – it’s their enduring legacy.
Listen to the interview above and then check out the video below.
