The Undertones facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
The Undertones
|
|
|---|---|
The Undertones (with Paul McLoone) on stage in Barcelona, Spain in September 2007.
|
|
| Background information | |
| Origin | Derry, Northern Ireland |
| Genres | Punk rock Pop punk Power pop |
| Years active | 1975-1983 1999-present |
| Labels | Sire Records Harvest Records Rykodisc Dojo Records Cooking Vinyl |
| Associated acts | That Petrol Emotion Rare |
| Members | John O'Neill Michael Bradley Billy Doherty Damian O'Neill Paul McLoone |
| Past members | Feargal Sharkey |
The Undertones are a famous punk rock and power pop band from Northern Ireland. They started making music in Derry in 1975. This group is known for their catchy songs and energetic performances.
Contents
Who Are The Undertones?
The band was formed by five friends in Derry. The original members were Feargal Sharkey, John O'Neill, Damian O'Neill, Michael Bradley, and Billy Doherty. They loved music and wanted to create their own unique sound.
How Did They Start?
In the mid-1970s, punk rock music was becoming very popular. The Undertones were inspired by this new style. They started playing together, writing their own songs, and performing in local venues. Their music was fast, exciting, and full of youthful energy.
Their First Big Hit
The Undertones became well-known for their song "Teenage Kicks." This song was released in 1978 and quickly became a favorite. It's a classic example of their pop-punk style. Many people still love this song today!
Music Style and Sound
The Undertones are often described as a mix of punk rock and power pop.
What is Punk Rock?
Punk rock is a type of music that is usually fast and loud. It often has simple melodies and lyrics that talk about everyday life or social issues. Bands like The Undertones brought a fresh, raw energy to music.
What is Power Pop?
Power pop combines the energy of punk with the catchy tunes of pop music. It often features strong melodies, harmonies, and guitar riffs. The Undertones were great at writing songs that were both powerful and easy to sing along to.
Band Members and Their Roles
The band has had a few changes over the years, but their core sound remains.
Original Lineup
- Feargal Sharkey: The lead singer, known for his unique voice.
- John O'Neill: One of the guitarists and a main songwriter.
- Damian O'Neill: The other guitarist, also involved in songwriting.
- Michael Bradley: The bass player, providing the rhythm.
- Billy Doherty: The drummer, keeping the beat.
Later Years and New Singer
The band stopped playing together in 1983. However, they got back together in 1999! Feargal Sharkey decided not to join them. Instead, Paul McLoone became their new lead singer. The band continues to perform and release music today.
Their Legacy
The Undertones left a big mark on music history. They showed that bands from smaller towns could make it big. Their songs are still played on the radio and enjoyed by new generations of fans. They are remembered for their catchy tunes and their important role in the punk and power pop music scenes.
Images for kids
-
The Undertones standing beside the Free Derry mural in 1977
-
The Undertones in 1981, photographed for the promotion of their third album, Positive Touch
-
Damian O' Neill on stage with the Undertones in Barcelona, September 2007
-
Paul McLoone performing live with the Undertones in Holmfirth, July 2012
See also
In Spanish: The Undertones para niños
