Behind the Scenes Footage of David Byrne Practicing His Dance Moves for “Stop Making Sense” in 1983

In 1984, Talking Heads delivered Stop Making Sense. Between frontman David Byrne’s iconic big suit, some suitably zany dance moves, and endlessly danceable tunes, it was considered to be the greatest concert film of all time.

The film was shot over four nights in December 1983 at Hollywood’s Pantages Theatre while Talking Heads were on tour promoting their 1983 album, Speaking in Tongues. Stop Making Sense includes performances of the early Talking Heads single, “Psycho Killer” (1977), through to their most recent hit at the time, “Burning Down the House” (1983).

Byrne’s dance during the song “Once in a Lifetime” is particularly memorable. He moves in exaggerated, robotic ways, combining twitchy gestures, loose-limbed shaking, and expressive facial expressions. These movements reflect the existential and surreal themes of the song, creating a unique visual and emotional experience.

The larger-than-life big suit he wears during the concert is another highlight. Byrne’s oversized gray suit adds a surreal, cartoonish element to his dance, amplifying the eccentric vibe of the performance.

Here’s an amazing behind the scenes footage of frontman David Byrne practicing his distinctive dance moves for the 1984 Talking Heads concert film Stop Making Sense.

Byrne himself has suggested that he took on a character for the show, as he recently told The Ringer, “It’s me as a character – or me as myself – being anxious and isolated in the beginning, and then gradually finding himself with this little supportive community.”