Electric Light Orchestra, commonly known as ELO, is a British rock band formed in Birmingham in 1970 by songwriters Jeff Lynne and Roy Wood. The band quickly became known for their unique fusion of rock, pop, and classical music, creating a distinctive sound that set them apart from their contemporaries.

ELO’s lineup has seen numerous changes over the years, with Jeff Lynne being the only consistent member throughout the band’s career. Their early music featured a full orchestra, giving them their signature sound and earning them the nickname “the English guys with the big fiddles.”

ELO released their debut album, “The Electric Light Orchestra,” in 1971. However, it was their fourth album, “Eldorado” (1974), that brought them commercial success. The album featured hits like “Can’t Get It Out of My Head” and “Boy Blue,” reaching number 16 on the UK Albums Chart.

In 1975, ELO released their groundbreaking album “Face the Music,” which included the hit singles “Evil Woman” and “Strange Magic.” The following year, they released “A New World Record,” which became their first top ten album in the UK and featured the hits “Livin’ Thing,” “Telephone Line,” and “Rockaria!”

ELO’s popularity soared in the late 1970s with the release of “Out of the Blue” in 1977. The double album included massive hits like “Turn to Stone,” “Sweet Talkin’ Woman,” and “Mr. Blue Sky.” It became one of the best-selling albums of the year and solidified ELO’s status as one of the biggest bands of the era.

In 1979, ELO released “Discovery,” which featured the hit singles “Don’t Bring Me Down” and “Confusion.” The album reached number one in the UK and further cemented ELO’s reputation as hitmakers.

Throughout the 1980s, ELO continued to release successful albums, including “Time” (1981) and “Secret Messages” (1983). However, by the late 1980s, internal tensions within the band led to a hiatus.

In 1986, Jeff Lynne released a solo album titled “Armchair Theatre” before returning to the ELO moniker with the album “Zoom” in 2001. The album featured the single “Alright,” marking ELO’s first new material in over 15 years.

ELO’s influence on popular music is undeniable, with their innovative use of strings and synthesizers inspiring countless artists across genres. Their music has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, ensuring their legacy continues to resonate with new generations of music lovers.

**UK Hits:**
1. “10538 Overture” (1972)
2. “Roll Over Beethoven” (1973)
3. “Telephone Line” (1976)
4. “Livin’ Thing” (1976)
5. “Turn to Stone” (1977)
6. “Sweet Talkin’ Woman” (1977)
7. “Mr. Blue Sky” (1978)
8. “Wild West Hero” (1978)
9. “Shine a Little Love” (1979)
10. “Don’t Bring Me Down” (1979)

**UK Albums:**
1. “No Answer” (U.S. title:”The Electric Light Orchestra”) (1971)
2. “ELO 2” (1973)
3. “On the Third Day” (1973)
4. “Eldorado” (1974)
5. “Face the Music” (1975)
6. “A New World Record” (1976)
7. “Out of the Blue” (1977)
8. “Discovery” (1979)
9. “Xanadu” (1980)
10. “Time” (1981)
11. “Secret Messages” (1983)
12. “Balance of Power” (1986)
13. “Zoom” (2001)

**Awards and Achievements:**
– ELO was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
– They have received numerous awards for their contributions to music and their innovative sound.
– ELO’s music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world, solidifying their status as one of the most influential bands in rock history.