Bow Wow Wow

Bow Wow Wow is a British new wave band formed in 1980, known for its unique blend of punk rock, pop, and world music influences. The band was founded by former Adam and the Ants guitarist Matthew Ashman, who recruited singer Annabella Lwin, bassist Leigh Gorman, and drummer David Barbarossa. Their music was characterized by Lwin's distinctive voice and the use of tribal rhythms and African-inspired percussion. The band's debut single, 'C30 C60 C90 Go!', released in 1981, garnered considerable attention. Bow Wow Wow gained further popularity with their hit 'I Want Candy,' which became a staple of early 80s pop culture. After a few lineup changes and a decline in popularity by the mid-1980s, the band disbanded in 1983 but has had several reunions since then, continuing to perform and release music sporadically.

Bow Wow Wow drew from a diverse range of musical influences, including punk rock, reggae, and African tribal music. The band's sound was heavily inspired by the works of bands like The Clash and the Sex Pistols, as well as the world music genre, which featured prominently in their rhythmic and melodic structures. Additionally, their aesthetic was influenced by the glam rock movement, and they often incorporated visual elements from fashion and art, which was reflective of the vibrant London music scene they were a part of during the early 1980s.

Bow Wow Wow was known for their energetic live performances and their innovative use of music videos during the early MTV era. Annabella Lwin, who was just 13 when she joined the band, became a media sensation due to her youthful image and striking style. The band's name is derived from a children's chant. They were one of the first bands to use the 'world beat' sound in a mainstream context. The group was managed by Malcolm McLaren, who also managed the Sex Pistols and had a significant influence on their public image and music direction.

Bow Wow Wow holds a significant place in the music history of the early 1980s as one of the pioneering bands of the New Wave movement. Their blend of pop and world music elements helped pave the way for future genres, including alternative rock and worldbeat. Their hit 'I Want Candy' is often cited as one of the quintessential songs of the era and has been covered by numerous artists. The band's innovative approach to music videos and their fashion-forward aesthetic influenced many bands that followed, making them a notable influence on both music and pop culture.

Bow Wow Wow did not receive major awards during their initial run but have been recognized for their contributions to music and are often included in discussions about influential 1980s bands. Their song 'I Want Candy' has been included in various 'best of' compilations and retrospectives.