Film Band: Chelsea - Urgh! A Music War Fan Site

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Chelsea: Brief Biography:

Chelsea: Were formed in mid 76 by singer Gene October. His original backing band included Billy Idol ( chosen instead of Marco Pirroni), Tony James and John Towe - all musicians in that large pool around 76/77 who all went on to join or form other bands. In fact all of the above left en masse to form Gen X with no ill feelings. Looking back on it it was inevitable as Gene's strong voice would never suit songs like Your Generation or Ready Steady Go. Instead he started Chelsea again but this time with a harder political edge.

It was in August 1976 that Gene October placed an advert in Melody Maker which led to replies from guitarist William Broad, bassist Tony James and drummer John Towe. On October 18th they made their live debut as Chelsea supporting Throbbing Gristle at London's ICA. It was at this time that Gene convinced Andy Czezowski, manager of a gay London nightspot in Covent Garden called Shageramas, to convert the club into London's first live punk rock venue called The Roxy - a fact for which he is given little credit. The band split in November 1976. Gene briefly recruited guitarist Marty Stacey and bassist Bob Jessie. The other three former members formed Generation X. When Gene was asked about his former band colleagues he said "Generation X? Oh yeah they used to be in Chelsea."

CHELSEA