Bogart Co. reflects on impact of 1980s Finnish disco music

If Finnish disco music from the 1980s were an image, it would depict the band Bogart Co. with their sugary hairstyles and glittering outfits. Their song “All the Best Girls” propelled them onto the charts in 1985, while their biggest hit “Princess” became Yle’s most-played song in 1986.

Bogart Co. was one of the most successful Finnish dance music acts of the 1980s, akin to teenage sensations like Dingo and Yö. The lineup included vocalist Esa Mäkelä (Ressu Redford), guitarist Veijo Mäki (Vinnie Lane), bassist Sami Piiparinen (Sam Eagle), drummer Johnny Gustafsson, and keyboardist Kai Stenman (Guy Stoneman). Their debut album “Only Lonely” achieved diamond status in sales.

In 1983, the band secured their first record deal thanks to an American exchange student, Charles Dye, who posed as a manager. Although initially rejected by a Helsinki record label, Dye’s previous association with a familiar band paved the way for Bogart Co.’s signing.

Their style was initially influenced by the film star Humphrey Bogart, showing in their retro looks. However, to achieve real success, the band needed a fresh sound and glitzy image. After a member change in 1984, they revamped their branding, embracing a vibrant, glam-inspired aesthetic.

In 1985, the band began to take off, driven by the success of their fateful single, with financial backing from the Ruohonen brothers. The band sought to establish themselves further by producing music videos, a rarity for non-star acts at the time.

Today, nearly 40 years later, members of Bogart Co. celebrate their journey as they reflect on their formative years, sharing smiles and stories of their past while acknowledging the impact the band had on their lives and careers.