The Damned, one of the most influential punk bands of all time, is celebrating 50 years since its formation. The band, which has undergone numerous lineup changes over the years, consists of Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, and Rat Scabies, with Vanian being the sole constant member.
The history of the Damned is marked by break-ups, creative differences, and personal conflicts, including a period where Scabies left the band while on tour in France. The other two members, Brian James (who later joined Culture Club) and Captain Sensible, also had their share of disagreements, with Sensible eventually leaving the band due to chart-topping solo career pressures.
Despite these ups and downs, the Damned has always been known for its unique blend of punk, goth, and psychedelic rock. The band's music has undergone many transformations over the years, from its early days as a proto-punk outfit to its later incarnations as a major label success story.
In recent times, the Damned have experienced a resurgence in popularity, with their recent albums reaching new heights on the charts. The band is now gearing up for a Wembley Arena gig and releasing a new album featuring covers of 60s garage bands that were an inspiration to the Damned's early sound.
Dave Vanian, the enigmatic frontman of the band, has always been somewhat of a private figure, preferring not to be interviewed or to have his image used in film and media. However, he is now open to talking about the band's history and future plans.
Captain Sensible and Rat Scabies, who were once at odds with Vanian due to creative differences, have now patched things up and are working together again. The two musicians seem to be enjoying their time on tour and in the studio, with Sensible saying that he is glad they did not become a commercial success, which would have led to them losing their drive.
In an interview, Captain Sensible reflected on the band's history, stating, "We wouldn't still be playing if we'd got stinking rich." He expressed his gratitude for having been able to maintain his passion for music and travel with the band.
The history of the Damned is marked by break-ups, creative differences, and personal conflicts, including a period where Scabies left the band while on tour in France. The other two members, Brian James (who later joined Culture Club) and Captain Sensible, also had their share of disagreements, with Sensible eventually leaving the band due to chart-topping solo career pressures.
Despite these ups and downs, the Damned has always been known for its unique blend of punk, goth, and psychedelic rock. The band's music has undergone many transformations over the years, from its early days as a proto-punk outfit to its later incarnations as a major label success story.
In recent times, the Damned have experienced a resurgence in popularity, with their recent albums reaching new heights on the charts. The band is now gearing up for a Wembley Arena gig and releasing a new album featuring covers of 60s garage bands that were an inspiration to the Damned's early sound.
Dave Vanian, the enigmatic frontman of the band, has always been somewhat of a private figure, preferring not to be interviewed or to have his image used in film and media. However, he is now open to talking about the band's history and future plans.
Captain Sensible and Rat Scabies, who were once at odds with Vanian due to creative differences, have now patched things up and are working together again. The two musicians seem to be enjoying their time on tour and in the studio, with Sensible saying that he is glad they did not become a commercial success, which would have led to them losing their drive.
In an interview, Captain Sensible reflected on the band's history, stating, "We wouldn't still be playing if we'd got stinking rich." He expressed his gratitude for having been able to maintain his passion for music and travel with the band.