Adam And The Ants

Adam and the Ants were an English rock band formed in London in 1977, fronted by the iconic Adam Ant. The band went through two distinct phases, transitioning from punk rock to a blend of post-punk and new wave. Over their five-year run, they achieved significant commercial success, particularly in the UK, and became a key part of the Second British Invasion in the United States.

History

Formation

Adam Ant, born Stuart Leslie Goddard, originally played bass in the pub rock band Bazooka Joe, which gained notoriety for headlining the Sex Pistols’ first gig in 1975. After Bazooka Joe disbanded, Ant formed a new group, initially called The Ants, with members Lester Square, Andy Warren, and Paul Flanagan. Their debut performance was on 23 April 1977, and after some early lineup changes, the band renamed themselves Adam and the Ants.

Early Recordings

The band’s early work was rooted in the punk rock ethos, and they quickly became known for their energetic performances and provocative lyrics. In 1978, they recorded their debut album, Dirk Wears White Sox, which became a cult hit and topped the UK Independent Albums Chart. Despite critical acclaim in underground circles, the band struggled to achieve mainstream success until they began working with Malcolm McLaren, who later convinced key members to leave and form Bow Wow Wow.

Breakthrough and Major Success

After the departure of several members, Adam Ant reformed the band with guitarist Marco Pirroni and drummer Chris Hughes. This new lineup adopted a distinctive sound featuring Burundi-style drumming and a more theatrical image. Their 1980 album, Kings of the Wild Frontier, marked their breakthrough, reaching number one in the UK and spawning several hit singles, including “Antmusic” and “Dog Eat Dog.”

The follow-up album, Prince Charming (1981), further solidified their success, producing chart-topping singles like “Stand and Deliver” and “Prince Charming.” The band’s music videos, characterized by their lavish production and unique visual style, became staples on MTV, helping to boost their popularity in the United States.

Break-Up and Aftermath

Despite their success, Adam and the Ants disbanded in March 1982. Adam Ant pursued a solo career, continuing his collaboration with Marco Pirroni. His first solo single, “Goody Two Shoes,” was a hit, reaching number one in the UK. Meanwhile, former members of the Ants moved on to various other projects, with mixed success.

Members

Final Lineup

• Adam Ant – vocals, guitar, bass, piano, harmonica (1977–1982)
• Chris “Merrick” Hughes – drums, acoustic guitar, piano (1980–1982)
• Terry Lee Miall – drums (1980–1982)
• Marco Pirroni – guitar (1980–1982)
• Gary Tibbs – bass (1981–1982)

Former Members

• Andy Warren – bass (1977–1979)
• Paul Flannagan – drums (1977)
• Lester Square – guitar (1977)
• Mark Ryan – guitar (1977) (died 2011)
• Dave Barbarossa – drums (1977–1980)
• Jordan – vocals (1977–1978) (died 2022)
• Johnny Bivouac – guitar (1977–1978)
• Matthew Ashman – guitar (1978–1979, 1979–1980) piano (1979) (died 1995)
• Leigh Gorman – bass (1979–1980)
• Kevin Mooney – bass (1980–1981)

Discography

Studio Albums

• Dirk Wears White Sox (1979)
• Kings of the Wild Frontier (1980)
• Prince Charming (1981)