An Oral History of Bad Brains: How the Pioneering Hardcore Band Changed Music Forever

From Bad Brains is a seminal hardcore band that emerged from the Washington, D.C. hardcore scene in the early 1980s. The band's unique sound, which blended hardcore with elements of reggae, funk, and soul, helped to define the genre and influence countless other bands.

Finding Joseph I: An Oral History of H.R. from Bad Brains

by Howie Abrams

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20261 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

This oral history tells the story of Bad Brains through the voices of its members, friends, and fans. The story begins with the band's early days in Washington, D.C., and follows them through their rise to fame in the early 1980s and their subsequent struggles with drugs, alcohol, and legal problems. The story also explores the band's Rastafarian beliefs and their commitment to social justice.

The Early Years

Bad Brains was formed in 1979 by brothers H.R. (vocals),Darryl Jenifer (bass),and Earl Hudson (drums). The band's sound was heavily influenced by the hardcore punk bands of the time, such as Black Flag and the Dead Kennedys. However, Bad Brains also incorporated elements of reggae, funk, and soul into their music, which gave them a unique sound that set them apart from other hardcore bands.

"We were just trying to be ourselves," said H.R. in an interview. "We weren't trying to be like anybody else. We just wanted to play the music that we loved."

Bad Brains quickly became a popular live act in the Washington, D.C. area. The band's energy and intensity were infectious, and their shows were often packed with fans. In 1982, the band released their debut album, "Bad Brains," which was a critical and commercial success. The album helped to establish Bad Brains as one of the most important hardcore bands of the time.

The Rise to Fame

In the early 1980s, Bad Brains toured extensively throughout the United States and Europe. The band's live shows were legendary, and they quickly gained a reputation as one of the best live bands in the world. Bad Brains also released a number of critically acclaimed albums during this time, including "Rock for Light" (1983) and "I Against I" (1986).

"Bad Brains were one of the most important bands of the 1980s," said Henry Rollins, frontman of the hardcore band Black Flag. "They were one of the first bands to fuse hardcore with other genres, and they helped to define the sound of hardcore punk."

Bad Brains' success was not without its challenges. The band struggled with drugs and alcohol, and they were often involved in legal problems. In 1986, H.R. was arrested for possession of cocaine, and he was sentenced to nine months in prison.

The Later Years

After H.R.'s release from prison, Bad Brains continued to tour and record. However, the band's later years were marked by a number of lineup changes and financial problems. In 1995, the band broke up, but they reunited in 2000.

Bad Brains have continued to tour and record in recent years. The band has released a number of new albums, including "Build a Nation" (2007) and "Into the Future" (2012). Bad Brains remain one of the most influential hardcore bands of all time, and their music continues to inspire new generations of fans.

The Legacy of Bad Brains

Bad Brains are one of the most important and influential hardcore bands of all time. The band's unique sound, which blended hardcore with elements of reggae, funk, and soul, helped to define the genre and influence countless other bands. Bad Brains were also one of the first hardcore bands to embrace Rastafarianism, and their commitment to social justice has been an inspiration to many.

"Bad Brains are a true original," said Ian MacKaye, frontman of the hardcore band Minor Threat. "They created a sound that was unlike anything else, and they helped to change the course of hardcore punk."

Bad Brains' legacy continues to live on. The band's music is still played by countless fans around the world, and their influence can be heard in the music of many contemporary hardcore bands. Bad Brains are a truly groundbreaking band, and their music will continue to inspire and influence fans for generations to come.

Finding Joseph I: An Oral History of H.R. from Bad Brains

by Howie Abrams

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	20261 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	288 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE