I was thinking that this would be a good topic because it seems from the mid-80s or so , there were many solo careers from bands or new singers for established bands or a new band formed entirely as a side project, etc
some had records out at the same period of time
here are some that come to mind
Stan Ridgway and Wall of Voodoo
The Clash and B A D
Peter Murphy, Tones on Tail, Love and Rockets (Bauhaus)
Jane Wiedlin and Belinda Carlisle (the Go Gos)
General Public and Fine Young Cannibals (the English Beat)
Arcadia and the Power Station (Duran Duran)
The Colour Field (The Specials)
Alison Moyet and Erasure (Yaz)
Crowded House (Split Enz)
Bronksi Beat and the Communards
Kaja and Limahl (Kajagoogoo)
Phil Oakey (Human League)
Feargal Sharkey (Undertones)
Sting (Police)
Phantom Rocker and Slick (Stray Cats)
Debbie Harry (Blondie)
any others???