Missing Persons

The Profile

Missing Persons is an American new wave band formed in Los Angeles in 1980 by Dale Bozzio, Terry Bozzio, and Warren Cuccurullo, joined by Patrick O'Hearn and Chuck Wild. Known for MTV-era hits like Destination Unknown, Words, and Walking in L.A., they released Spring Session M (1982), Rhyme & Reason (1984), and Color in Your Life (1986).

Formed in Los Angeles by Zappa alumni Dale Bozzio (vocals), Terry Bozzio (drums), and Warren Cuccurullo (guitar), with Patrick O'Hearn (bass) and Chuck Wild (keyboards). Signature songs include Destination Unknown, Words, and Walking in L.A. Cuccurullo later joined Duran Duran. Albums include Spring Session M (1982), Rhyme & Reason (1984), and Color in Your Life (1986).

Two reviews revisit Missing Persons’ early-’80s heyday: Spring Session M as hooky, electronic pop-rock with memorable singles, and Rhyme & Reason as a drier, more oblique turn. Both highlight Dale Bozzio’s distinctive vocals, Terry Bozzio’s sharp percussion, and Warren Cuccurullo’s incisive guitars. The band’s Zappa-forged chops and LA origins frame their blend of danceable new wave and experimental impulses.