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The Fountainhead (band)

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Adapted from the English Wikipedia article The Fountainhead (band), available under CC BY-SA 4.0Updated 29 November 2025
The Fountainhead
Company typeRock band
IndustryMusic
Founded1982
FounderSteve Belton, Pat O'Donnell
Defunct1990
Headquarters
Ireland
Key people
Steve Belton, Pat O'Donnell, Peter McKinney, Willie Demange, Phil Rennick
ProductsAlbums, singles

The Fountainhead was an Irish rock group established by Steve Belton and Pat O'Donnell in 1982. Two years later, they triumphed in a music competition that granted them 20 hours of studio time at Windmill Lane Studios. Utilizing this opportunity, they independently released their debut single, "Rhythm Method," in 1984. Its favorable reception on Irish radio led to a recording deal with China Records.

Their band name draws inspiration from the novel The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand.

In 1986, China Records issued their first album, The Burning Touch. To support their live performances, Belton and O'Donnell brought in drummer Peter McKinney, bassist Willie Demange, and keyboardist Phil Rennick. This ensemble made its first appearance at the Self Aid benefit event on 17 May 1986. Additionally, their track "Feel It Now" was included on the Live for Ireland charity compilation.

Beginning in November 1986, The Fountainhead embarked on a North American tour. Material recorded during their concluding U.S. concert at Whisky a Go Go on 9 December was later released as an EP in 1987.

Their sophomore and final studio release, Voice of Reason, came out in 1988. The band ultimately dissolved in 1990.

Albums

  • The Burning Touch (1986)
  • Live (EP, 1987)
  • Voice of Reason (1988)

Singles

  • "Rhythm Method" (1984)
  • "Feel It Now" (1986) IRE #30
  • "Seeing Is Believing" (1986)
  • "So Good Now" & "Heart & Soul" (1987) China Records WOK 13
  • "Someone Like You" (1988)
  • "Angel" (1988)