EntertainmentBritish1953 – present

Midge Ure

Ultravox guitarist, Band Aid co-founder, new wave pioneer

Biography

Midge Ure (born Midge Ure, October 10, 1953) is a Scottish musician, songwriter, and record producer who rose to prominence as the guitarist, keyboardist, and occasional vocalist for the influential new wave band Ultravox. Born James Ure in Cambuslang, Scotland, he adopted the stage name 'Midge' early in his career. Ure is perhaps best known for his work on Ultravox's 1981 album 'Vienna', which became a critical and commercial success and helped define the new wave sound of the 1980s. Beyond his band work, Ure co-founded Band Aid with Bob Geldof in 1984, organizing the famous charity single 'Do They Know It's Christmas?' to raise funds for the Ethiopian famine relief. His contributions to music production extended to work with artists like Visage and Rich Kids. Ure's versatility as a musician, his production expertise, and his humanitarian efforts have solidified his legacy as a significant figure in 1980s popular music and philanthropic activism.

The Name Midge

Midge is a distinctly Scottish diminutive name, and Midge Ure's Scottish heritage and prominence in British music culture exemplifies the name's association with creativity and cultural influence in the UK music scene.

Other Famous Midges

Midge Maisel

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel protagonist, stand-up comedian character

Fictional Character

Quick Facts

Midge

English origin

“A cheerful, vintage diminutive traditionally short for Margaret or Midred, rooted in Old English. Midge evokes mid-20th-century American charm with an energetic, spirited personality—friendly and unpretentious while maintaining nostalgic appeal.”