Ex-STATUS QUO drummer John Coghlan formed the highly melodic PARTNERS IN CRIME in mid 1984 and immediately scored a major deal with Epic Records. Fronting the group was Noel McCalla, previously a member of MOON and JODY STREET, whilst guitarist Ray Majors pedigree included stints with HACKENSACK, MOTT and BRITISH LIONS. Keyboardist Mark Booty was formerly with WILDFIRE.

The band's first single, 'Hold On', was written by YES guitarist Trevor Rabin and the song was re-recorded by YES on the album '90125'.