Hailing from Philadelphia, PA, Pretty Poison started out as a new wave outfit in 1981. Fronted by the diminutive and gorgeous Jade Starling, they signed to Svengali Records 1n 1982, and enjoyed regional success, especially with the regional dance hit "Nighttime." Their music in the early part of the 1980's was dark and atmospheric, sounding nothing like the dance pop which was to follow. However, in 1987, Pretty Poison signed to Virgin Records.