Mr. Mister was formed in 1982 by session musicians Richard Page (bass, vocals) and Steve George (keyboards), both of whom had played on hits for REO Speedwagon and John Parr and wanted to taste success under their own identities. The lineup was rounded out by guitarist Steve Farris and drummer Pat Mastelotto, and Mr. Mister recorded its debut album, I Wear a Face, in 1984.

Welcome to the Real World was the band's big break, however; "Broken Wings" and "Kyrie" both hit number one and were followed by the Top Ten "Is This Love." After one more album, Go On, which produced only the minor hit "Something Real (Inside Me/Inside You)," Farris left the band, which has not been heard from since. Page turned down offers to join Toto and Chicago.