Guitarist Zack Smith formed the mainstream pop/rock band Scandal after playing in various groups, including ones that featured Dee Murray and Davey Johnson of the Elton John band. Scandal's lineup was secured in 1982, with the addition of vocalist Patty Smyth; the rest of the band included bassist Ivan Elias, guitarist Keith Mack, keyboardist Benji King, and drummer Frankie La Rocka. After opening for acts like the Kinks and Hall & Oates, the band released their debut single, "Goodbye to You," in 1982; their self-titled debut album followed soon afterward.