The Blockheads

Name: The Blockheads
Start: 2025-09-26
End: 2025-09-27
Location: The Factory Live

Performing a large selection of their classic songs spanning over 5 decades.

Formed in 1977 to promote Ian Dury's album New Boots and Panties on the first Stiff Records tour of the UK.

The Blockheads are now fronted by one of Ian's best friends Derek 'The Draw', the band's vocalist and wordsmith. Chaz Jankel, Norman Watt-Roy, John Turnbull and Mick Gallagher still remain from the original band and the current line-up is augmented by John Roberts on drums and a rolling line up of saxophonists including Gilad Atzmon, Terry Edwards or Dave Lewis.

These legendary Brit-Funkers will be playing all the old favourites and new material.

In 1978 Chaz composed 'Hit me with your Rhythm Stick' with Ian and in 1979 had a number one hit record.

In 1982 Ian Dury & The Blockheads disbanded and were not to play together again until 1987 when they went out to Japan to play three shows, disbanding again until 1990 when the death of Charlie Charles in September of that year re-united them to play two Benefit gigs at The Forum, Camden Town in aid of Charlie's family.

The last performance by Ian Dury & The Blockheads was February 6th 2000 at The London Palladium.

Ian died at 9am on 27th March 2000.

At this point the band had to make a decision to either stop or continue. The choice was made and the band has continued making albums and touring the world.

Now after almost 19 years since Ian passed away, The Blockheads still perform to packed out venues around the world.