Complete List Of New Order Band Members

New Order formed in 1980 in Manchester, England, following the dissolution of their previous band, Joy Division, due to the tragic death of lead singer Ian Curtis. Emerging from the post-punk era and pivoting towards electronic and dance music, New Order became known for their blend of new wave and electronic styles. Throughout their career, they released over ten studio albums, achieving considerable chart success and critical acclaim worldwide. Their work has earned them numerous awards and a broad fan base. Over the years, New Order has seen various lineup changes, but their core members have played pivotal roles in shaping the sound and direction of the band.

Bernard Sumner

Bernard Sumner, a founding member of New Order, joined the band in 1980 after the end of Joy Division, where he was also a member. As the lead vocalist, guitarist, and keyboardist, Sumner has been a constant presence in the band. He has played on all New Order albums, contributing significantly to their sound and songwriting. Notable albums featuring his work include Power, Corruption & Lies and Technique. Sumner also has an illustrious career outside of New Order, including his involvement in the supergroup Electronic with Johnny Marr and collaborations with other artists such as the Chemical Brothers. His influence extends into electronic music, and he has been a part of several other music projects.

Peter Hook

Peter Hook was the bassist for New Order from its formation in 1980 until his departure in 2007. Known for his distinctive bass playing, Hook’s contributions were integral to the band’s sound, particularly on albums like Movement and Low-Life. His bass lines are considered pioneering in the dance and electronic genres. After leaving New Order, Hook formed Peter Hook and the Light, where he performs both Joy Division and New Order’s albums in their entirety. He has also written several books about his time with both bands, contributing greatly to the post-punk and new wave memoir literature.

Stephen Morris

Drummer Stephen Morris has been with New Order since its inception, having also been a part of Joy Does when they transitioned into New Order. His drumming style is noted for its precision and incorporation of synthesizers. Morris has played on every New Order album, impacting their evolution from post-punk to electronic dance music. Outside of New Order, he and his wife Gillian Gilbert formed The Other Two, a musical project that released its debut album in the early 1990s. Morris has been involved in music production and remixing, working with a range of artists across different genres.

Gillian Gilbert

Gillian Gilbert joined New Order in 1981 and played a key role as a keyboardist and guitarist. Her addition coincided with the band’s shift towards a more electronic sound, beginning with their second album, Power, Corruption & Lies. Gilbert was part of the band until 2001, when she took a hiatus to focus on family, returning in 2011. She has contributed to significant albums like Brotherhood and Republic. Gilbert’s other musical involvements include The Other Two, the project with her husband, Stephen Morris, where they explored various electronic pop sounds.

Phil Cunningham

Phil Cunningham replaced Gillian Gilbert when she stepped down in 2001 and has been with the band ever since. Before joining New Order, he was a member of Marion, an alternative rock band. As a guitarist and keyboardist, Cunningham has played on New Order’s later albums, including Waiting for the Sirens’ Call and Music Complete. His versatility has helped the band maintain its innovative edge in electronic music.

Tom Chapman

Tom Chapman joined New Participant as a bassist in 2011 following the departure of Peter Hook. Chapman was previously part of Bad Lieutenant, another project of Bernard Sumner. His contributions to New Order include playing on their 2015 album, Music Complete, which marked a return to their classic sound interspersed with modern electronic influences. Chapman has helped carry the band’s legacy into the new era, continuing to tour and record with them.

Read More: Top 10 New Order Songs