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Boomtown Rats facts for kids

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The Boomtown Rats
TheBoomtownRatsKBF1981.jpg
The Boomtown Rats at Knott's Berry Farm in 1981
Background information
Origin County Dublin, Ireland
Genres New wave, punk rock, pop punk, post-punk, alternative rock
Years active 1975–1986, 2013–present
Labels Mulligan, Ensign, Mercury
Associated acts Band Aid, Live Aid, Live 8
Members Bob Geldof
Pete Briquette
Simon Crowe
Garry Roberts
Past members Johnnie Fingers
Gerry Cott

The Boomtown Rats are an Irish rock band. They became very popular in Ireland and the UK from 1977 to 1985. The band is famous for its lead singer, Bob Geldof. The original members included Garry Roberts on lead guitar, Johnnie Fingers on keyboards, Pete Briquette on bass, Gerry Cott on rhythm guitar, and Simon Crowe on drums. The Boomtown Rats first broke up in 1986. However, they got back together in 2013, but without Johnnie Fingers or Gerry Cott.

Discovering The Boomtown Rats' Music

The Boomtown Rats played a mix of music styles. These included new wave, punk rock, and pop punk. Their songs often had catchy tunes and strong lyrics. They were known for their energetic live shows.

Early Years and First Hits

The band formed in 1975 in County Dublin, Ireland. They quickly gained attention for their unique sound. Their first big hits came in the late 1970s. These songs helped them become well-known across the UK and Ireland.

Popular Songs and Albums

The Boomtown Rats released several successful albums. They had many songs that reached high spots on the music charts. Their music often reflected the times they lived in. They were one of the leading bands of the new wave movement.

The Band's Impact and Legacy

The Boomtown Rats are remembered for more than just their music. Their lead singer, Bob Geldof, became famous for his charity work. This work helped millions of people around the world.

Bob Geldof and Live Aid

In the 1980s, Bob Geldof helped organize Band Aid. This group of musicians recorded the song "Do They Know It's Christmas?". The money raised went to help people in Africa. He then co-organized Live Aid in 1985. Live Aid was a huge concert event held in London and Philadelphia. It raised a lot of money and awareness for famine relief. This event showed how music could bring people together for a good cause.

Later Years and Reunion

The band stopped playing together in 1986. After many years, they decided to reform in 2013. They started performing concerts again. This allowed new fans to experience their music live.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: The Boomtown Rats para niños

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