Punk rock is an exciting style of music that is known for its raw energy, rebellious spirit, and “do-it-yourself” attitude. Over the years, many important bands have come out of this style. Even though famous bands like The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash often get all the attention, it’s important to remember how important one band was: Big Boys. This piece will talk about where they came from, how their music changed over time, how they had a big effect on punk rock, and how their legacy lives on.
Big Boys Rock Band
Big Boys emerged from the vibrant punk scene of Austin, Texas, in the late 1970s. The band was officially formed in 1979 by Randy “Biscuit” Turner (vocals), Tim Kerr (guitar), Chris Gates (bass), and Greg Murray (drums). Their fearless exploration of the punk rock genre set Big Boys apart from their contemporaries. They ingeniously infused elements of punk, hardcore, funk, and reggae into their music, crafting a unique and unmistakable sound.
Big Boys Music Band Members
The band comprised four talented musicians who all contributed significantly to the group’s sound and social effects. Randy “Biscuit” Turner, the charismatic lead singer and frontman, was out as gay in the punk scene. He broke down walls and gave LGBTQ+ people hope to be accepted in the music world. Tim Kerr, who played guitar for the band, gave them their signature riffs and beats, which made their sound a unique mix of punk and funk.
Chris Gates played the bass, which gave their music depth and groove. Greg Murray played the drums, which gave their shows their energy. Together, these four artists were the core of the Big Boys. They left a musical and cultural legacy that continues to influence and inspire people in the punk rock scene and beyond.
The Musical Medley of Big Boys
Big Boys’ music was marked by its high-octane delivery, blistering tempo, and socially conscious lyrics. Their early release, the “Fun, Fun, Fun” EP (1982), was a testament to their punk roots while hinting at the funk and dance influences that would later define their style. The EP included notable tracks like “Funk Off” and “Sound on Sound,” offering a glimpse into the band’s evolving musical landscape.
Their debut album, “Where’s My Towel/Industry Standard,” unleashed in 1981, stands as a punk rock classic. The album showcases tunes like “We Got Your Money” and “Hollywood Swinging,” which blend punk with funk, epitomizing the band’s boundary-breaking spirit.
A Notable List of Super Hits
“Fun, Fun, Fun” is one of the Big Boys’ most well-known songs. Even though it has the same name as a hit by the Beach Boys, the Big Boys’ version is a fast-paced punk song. It’s a favorite among punk and alternative music fans because of its catchy tune and rebellious spirit.
“Hollywood Swinging” is a cover of the classic funk song by Kool & the Gang. It shows how the band mixes punk and funk. It shows how they combine styles and can give old pieces new life.
“We Got Your Money” is a song about how record labels take advantage of artists, which is still a problem in the music business. It shows that the band wants to use their songs to speak out against wrongdoing.
“Funk Off”: As the name suggests, “Funk Off” is a funky and groovy song that shows off the Big Boys’ unique style of music. It’s a great example of how they mixed punk’s raw energy with funk’s catchy beats.
“Sound on Sound” is a fan favourite because of its unique bassline and lively tempo. It’s a song showing how the band can make music that’s fun to dance to and angry.
A Punk Rock Message with Social Awareness
Big Boys were more than just musicians; they were fierce advocates who harnessed their music to address pressing social issues. Their lyrics fearlessly tackled themes such as anti-racism, LGBTQ+ rights, and the power of community. At a time when many punk bands were absorbed in rebellion and nihilism, Big Boys used their platform to make a difference.
The track “We Got Your Money” shed light on the exploitation of artists by record labels, while “Which Way to Go” delved into themes of identity and alienation. “Funk Off” and “Nervous” carried potent critiques of conformity and societal expectations.
The DIY Ethos and Independent Spirit
Punk rock is all about doing things yourself, and Big Boys took that idea to heart. They started their own record label, Moment Productions, which gave them creative freedom and the ability to release their songs on their own. This unwavering dedication to freedom and self-reliance was what made punk rock what it was, and it inspired a lot of other bands to do the same.
Big Boys also organized shows and events in unconventional venues like warehouses and parks. Their dedication to nurturing a thriving punk scene in Austin played a pivotal role in cementing the city’s status as a punk rock hub. Their influence on the local music community remains palpable to this day.
Inclusivity and Embracing Diversity
Big Boys pioneered inclusivity and diversity within the punk rock scene. At their shows, they actively fostered a safe and inclusive environment for individuals from all backgrounds and identities. Their commitment to inclusivity shattered the stereotype that punk was a predominantly white and male-dominated subculture.
Randy “Biscuit” Turner, the band’s charismatic frontman, openly identified as gay at a time when the punk scene wasn’t always welcoming to LGBTQ+ individuals. His unapologetic presence and authenticity were a beacon of hope, inspiring many within the LGBTQ+ community to find their place in punk rock.
Impact and Legacy
The influence of Big Boys on punk rock is immeasurable. They were among the earliest bands to blend punk and funk seamlessly, a fusion that would later inspire acts like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Fishbone. Their unwavering commitment to social activism and inclusivity set a precedent for punk bands to use their platform for positive change.
In Austin, Big Boys’ legacy thrives to this day. The city’s punk and alternative music scenes owe much of their vitality to the groundwork laid by Big Boys and their contemporaries. Furthermore, their influence extends beyond Austin, as they are celebrated as pioneers of the punk rock movement nationally and internationally.
Interesting Facts
The success of bands like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, who added funk sounds to rock music and became very popular, shows how much the Big Boys influenced the punk-funk style.
Even though the Big Boys didn’t have any songs at the top of the charts, they had a massive influence on the punk and underground music scenes. They encouraged a lot of bands and artists to try new things with their music.
The band was different from many of its punk rock peers because it cared about social issues and made everyone feel welcome. Their music became a way to talk about critical social problems, making it appealing to fans who wanted more than just rebellious music.
Big Boys’ DIY attitude and the fact that they started their own record label, Moment Productions, showed how much they cared about artistic freedom. This idea continues to be a source of inspiration for singers and artists who work on their own.
The Big Boys will always be remembered because their songs are still popular on streaming services like Spotify, where people worldwide can listen to them.
Conclusion
Big Boys transcended the confines of being just a punk rock band; they were trailblazers who pushed the boundaries of the genre, championed social causes, and created an inclusive space within the punk community. Their music serves as a testament to the transformative power of punk rock in challenging the status quo and fostering change. Big Boys demonstrated that punk rock could be a force for progress and unity in a world resistant to change.
As we reflect on the annals of punk rock history, let us not forget the indomitable Big Boys and their enduring legacy of punk with purpose, DIY spirit, and an unswerving commitment to inclusivity. Their story reminds us that music possesses the potent ability to effect social change and inspire generations to come. The next time you explore the pages of punk rock history, be sure to accord Big Boys the recognition they deserve.
FAQ
1. What Genre Is the Big Boys?
The Big Boys were primarily a punk rock band. They emerged during the late 1970s and were known for their energetic, rebellious, and socially conscious music. While rooted in punk rock, the Big Boys also incorporated elements of funk and other genres into their sound, making them pioneers of the punk-funk subgenre.
2. Who Is the Bass Player for the Big Boys?
The bass player for the Big Boys was Chris Gates. Chris Gates played a pivotal role in shaping the band’s unique sound, characterized by its punk and funk elements fusion. His bass lines added depth and groove to the band’s music, contributing to their distinctive style.
3. Is the Song “Big Boys” on Spotify?
You can find songs by the Big Boys on Spotify, including their iconic track “Big Boys.” Spotify is a popular streaming platform that offers a wide selection of music, making it easy for fans to access and enjoy the themes of the Big Boys and other artists from various genres. Search for “Big Boys” on Spotify to explore their discography and listen to their music.