In the early 1980s, an unknown person captured a song from the radio onto a cassette tape, a common practice at the time. However, all details about the song have vanished, leading to what online investigators refer to as a lostwave – a melody with no identifiable information. The track, currently dubbed “CIA,” remains a mystery as its origin, performers, and true title are all unknown.
The search for the song’s background has been ongoing for years, expanding to the Waterloo region in southern Ontario. Joe Gaschler, a moderator of a Reddit forum dedicated to uncovering lostwave songs, described “CIA” as a 42-year-old Canadian musical enigma. Despite the efforts of thousands of individuals involved in the search, the band behind the song remains elusive.
The only known details are that the song was aired on CFNY-FM, now 102.1 The Edge, and likely recorded onto tape in the mid-1980s, possibly around 1984. It exudes a typical 1980s sound reminiscent of bands like A Flock of Seagulls, Platinum Blonde, and The Cure.
The song’s online presence began in 2020 when it was uploaded to YouTube and Reddit, triggering a quest to unveil its creators. Even music industry insiders like Alan Cross have been consulted, yet the mystery persists. The online community dedicated to solving the enigma continues to dissect the song’s elements, but the band’s identity remains shrouded in secrecy.
Despite the advancements in music identification technology, the anonymous nature of “CIA” poses a unique challenge for investigators. The pursuit of the song’s origins has fostered a sense of camaraderie among enthusiasts, preserving the allure of the mystery. The hope is that one day, the band behind “CIA” will be recognized for their remarkable creation and the joy it has brought to its fans.
The fascination with uncovering lostwave artists like the creators of “CIA” highlights the enduring appeal of music mysteries and the communities they inspire. As the search continues, the quest for closure and the revelation of hidden talents remain at the heart of this musical enigma.