"Different Light" is the second studio album by American pop rock band The Bangles. It was released in January 1986 by Columbia Records. The album is a mix of the band's different musical styles, encompassing the more pop-oriented and jangly sound that they're well known for.
"Different Light" features some of The Bangles' biggest hits, including "Manic Monday" and "Walk Like an Egyptian," both of which reached number two in the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. "Manic Monday," was written by Prince under the pseudonym Christopher, which brought the band commercial success. "Walk Like an Egyptian," on the other hand, was one of the biggest-selling singles of the decade, and the number one song of 1986 according to Billboard's end-of-year charts.
The album is also significant for the greater role guitarist Michael Steele played, both in terms of lead vocals and the number of songs she wrote or co-wrote. Steele sang lead vocals on "Following," which she wrote, and on "September Gurls," a cover of a Big Star song. Her voice is also prominent on the album's hit singles.
"Different Light" helped establish The Bangles as one of the top acts of the 1980s, peaking at number two on the Billboard 200 chart. The album was certified multi-platinum, selling millions of copies worldwide and solidifying the band's place in pop rock history. It's considered a classic of 80s pop and continues to be celebrated for its catchy hits, layered harmonies, and diverse songwriting.
