Alphaville is a German synth-pop band that achieved international fame in the mid-1980s. Formed by Marian Gold, Bernhard Lloyd, and Frank Mertens, the band released their debut album, Forever Young, in 1984. It featured their signature hits “Big in Japan” and the title track, which became iconic anthems of the decade. Following Mertens’ departure, Ricky Echolette joined the group. They continued their success with the albums Afternoons in Utopia (1986) and The Breathtaking Blue (1989), solidifying their place as a key figure in the synth-pop movement.