Ian Dury, born on May 12, 1942, in Harrow, London, was a distinctive figure in the British music scene, renowned for his clever wordplay, distinctive voice, and a blend of musical styles that included punk, rock, and jazz. Dury grew up facing the challenges of polio, which he contracted at the age of seven, but he channeled his experiences into a creative outlet. Before embarking on a music career, Dury studied art and even taught at various colleges, which contributed to his unique approach to music as an artistic expression.

His breakthrough came as the frontman of Ian Dury and the Blockheads, a band that melded a variety of genres to create a sound that was experimental yet accessible. They enjoyed success with hits such as "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll," "Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick," and "Reasons to Be Cheerful, Part 3." The release of "New Boots and Panties!!" in 1977 established Dury as a formidable artist in the post-punk era. Despite never attaining massive international fame, Dury's influence on British music was significant, and his lyrics often reflected wry observations of life, infused with humor and a touch of the absurd. After the Blockheads disbanded, Dury continued to perform and record, though health issues increasingly affected his career. He passed away on March 27, 2000, from cancer, but left behind a legacy celebrated for its unique contribution to the narrative of British rock.

Genres

Pub Rock

Related Artists

Madness

Elvis Costello

The Specials

The Jam

Nick Lowe

The Blockheads

Squeeze

The Clash

The Stranglers

Graham Parker

Dr. Feelgood

The Pogues

Latest Release

Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick (Live)

Ian Dury•

The Blockheads

Single - Released November 6, 2020