Motorhead: The Godfathers of Heavy Metal
If you're a fan of heavy metal, you've undoubtedly heard of Motorhead. This iconic band, formed in 1975 by lead singer and bassist Lemmy Kilmister, has been a mainstay in the metal scene for decades, influencing countless other musicians and earning a devoted fan base along the way.
Fact 1 - Lemmy Kilmister, the founder and lead singer of Motorhead, was originally a member of the band Hawkwind. He was fired from the band for doing amphetamines, and formed Motorhead shortly thereafter.
But what sets Motorhead apart from other metal bands? What makes them the godfathers of the genre?
One of the things that makes Motorhead unique is their style. They've often been described as "fast and furious," blending elements of hard rock, punk, and heavy metal into a sound that's all their own. They're also known for their high-energy live shows, with Lemmy's distinctive growl and powerful stage presence leading the charge.
Fact 2 - Motorhead's iconic logo, known as the "Snaggletooth," was designed by artist Joe Petagno. It has undergone several variations over the years, but the basic design remains the same.
Another factor that has contributed to Motorhead's success is their consistency. They've released 22 studio albums over the years, and while their sound has evolved slightly over time, they've remained true to their roots and never strayed too far from their core style. This consistency has helped them build a loyal fan base that has stuck with them through the years.
Fact 3 - Lemmy was known for his love of Jack Daniel's whiskey and Marlboro cigarettes. In fact, he once said that he drank a bottle of Jack Daniel's every day for 30 years.
But perhaps the biggest reason Motorhead is considered a godfather of heavy metal is the influence they've had on the genre. Many other metal bands have cited Motorhead as a major inspiration, and their impact can still be felt today.
Fact 4 - Motorhead's song "Ace of Spades" has been covered by numerous other artists, including Metallica, Guns N' Roses, and Motörhead themselves in a live version with Girlschool.
So, if you're a fan of heavy metal and you haven't already checked out Motorhead, now is the time to do so. With a catalog of classic hits like "Ace of Spades," "Killed by Death," and "Overkill," there's something for everyone to enjoy. Trust us, you won't be disappointed.
Fact 5 - The band has had numerous lineup changes over the years, with Lemmy being the only constant member. However, drummer Phil "Philthy Animal" Taylor and guitarist "Fast" Eddie Clarke were also part of the classic Motorhead lineup that many fans consider to be the definitive version of the band.
Fact 6 - Motorhead has been nominated for several Grammy Awards, but has never won. However, they were awarded the Metal Hammer Golden Gods "Lifetime Achievement" award in 2013.
Fact 7 - Motorhead's music has been used in several video games, including "Grand Theft Auto: Vice City," "Rock Band," and "Brütal Legend."
Fact 8 - Lemmy was a big fan of chess and even had a chessboard tattooed on his arm. He was also an avid collector of Nazi memorabilia, which he said he was interested in for historical rather than ideological reasons.
Fact 9 - In 2015, a documentary about Lemmy and Motorhead titled "Lemmy" was released. The film was directed by Wes Orshoski and received widespread critical acclaim.