This week: 3 “Great” British Bands That Annoyed Society

When it comes to music Britain has consistently provided the ‘cutting edge’. This has occurred largely in the rock field which has spawned many influential artists that have continued to impact deeply upon British culture. I just want to touch on a few of those bands who seemingly upset the society of their times.

1. Sex Pistols

Formed in London in 1975, the frontrunners of the British Punk movement caused a spine shattering impact on a country plunged largely into disarray by a failing Labour government. They burst onto the scene by attacking the sycophantic press, swearing on daytime television and loudly voicing their discontent. In reflection back on the antics of their day, it seems increasingly difficult to believe the extent to which they were able to upset the society of their era.

2. The Smiths

Spawned from the British indie scene of the 1980’s, The Smiths delivered an increasingly controversial front man who was willing to attack the hypocrisy of Thatcherite England whilst advocating independent virtues such as Vegetarianism. Often lyrically sardonic, Morrissey was much more clear cut in his interviews with the British media, once reflecting that: “One can have great concern for the people of Ethiopia, but it’s another thing to inflict daily torture on the people of England”, in his scathing attack on the proposal of Band Aid.

3. The Rolling Stones

Judged to have been too provocative with their long hair and flamboyant clothes, The Stones were seen as the bad boys of 60’s British Rock. Sordid tales of drugs, women and wild parties did little to revert this image in a world of social upheaval and revolution. Such demonizing could hardly have been helped by The Beatles cultivation of cleanness and youth, which many saw as the better role model for the children of the 60’s.