Skip to main content

Coup d'Etat Biography

coup-detat
  • Years Active: 1970s-1980s
  • Genre: Rock & Alternative

The short-lived New Zealand pop group Coup d'Etat was led by vocalist/guitarist Harry Lyon, a onetime member of Hello Sailor. Bassist Neil Hannan, ex-Red Mole keyboardist Jan Preston, and drummer Steve Osborne rounded out the group, originally dubbed Wolfgang upon their formation in early 1980. Osborne soon exited, replaced by drummer Paul Dunningham; in a short time the band's debut single, "No Music on My Radio," was released. Coup d'Etat's sophomore effort, "Doctor I Like You Medicine," was their lone hit, peaking in the Top Ten; a self-titled LP followed. After just one more single, "Permanent Hire," the band dissolved, briefly re-forming in 1982 before calling it quits for good. ~ Jason Ankeny, Rovi

Advertisement