Angry Anderson
Angry Anderson: The Voice of Australia's Working Class
Emerging from the volatile streets of Sydney in the late 1970s, Angry Anderson and his band, Rose Tattoo, ignited the Australian music scene with their raw and uncompromising brand of rock 'n' roll. Anderson, with his distinctive growl and larger-than-life persona, became an iconic figure in the country's musical landscape.
The Early Years
Born Gary Anderson in 1947, Anderson's childhood was marked by poverty and hardship. His formative years in the working-class suburbs of Sydney shaped his worldview and ignited a passion for giving voice to the disenfranchised. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones, he found solace in music and began writing songs as a teenager.
The Rise of Rose Tattoo
In 1976, Anderson co-founded Rose Tattoo, a hard-rocking quartet that quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances. The band's debut album, "Rose Tattoo," released in 1978, became an instant classic, showcasing their raw aggression and catchy hooks. The album's title track, "Bad Boy for Love," became a signature anthem for Anderson and the band.
Bad Days and the Height of Success
The release of Rose Tattoo's second album, "Assault & Battery," in 1979, marked the pinnacle of the band's commercial success. The album featured the iconic single "Bad Days," which became a global hit and solidified Anderson's status as a rock legend. The song's poignant lyrics and infectious melody resonated with audiences worldwide, capturing the struggles and aspirations of the working class.
Controversies and Challenges
Anderson's outspoken nature and fiery lyrics often stirred controversy. In 1983, he was charged with inciting a riot at a rock festival in Sydney. The incident led to a period of legal battles and introspection for Anderson. Despite the setbacks, he remained unwavering in his commitment to his art and his belief in the power of music.
Solo Career and Later Years
In the 1990s, Anderson embarked on a successful solo career, releasing several acclaimed albums. He also ventured into acting, appearing in television shows and films. In 2008, Rose Tattoo reunited for a series of tours, bringing Anderson's iconic vocals to a new generation of fans.
Legacy and Impact
Angry Anderson's influence on Australian music is undeniable. His raw and passionate songs gave voice to the marginalized and helped shape the nation's cultural identity. His music continues to inspire and connect with audiences today, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy as a true rock 'n' roll icon.
Members of Rose Tattoo
* Angry Anderson - Lead vocals
* Peter Wells - Lead guitar
* Mick Cocks - Rhythm guitar
* Ian Rilen - Bass guitar
* Dallas "Storm" Royal - Drums
Discography
Rose Tattoo Albums:
* Rose Tattoo (1978)
* Assault & Battery (1979)
* Scarred for Life (1981)
* Southern Stars (1984)
* Beats from a Single Drum (1986)
Angry Anderson Solo Albums:
* Beats From A Single Drum (1990)
* Blood from Stone (1995)
* No Time to Cry (1997)
Emerging from the volatile streets of Sydney in the late 1970s, Angry Anderson and his band, Rose Tattoo, ignited the Australian music scene with their raw and uncompromising brand of rock 'n' roll. Anderson, with his distinctive growl and larger-than-life persona, became an iconic figure in the country's musical landscape.
The Early Years
Born Gary Anderson in 1947, Anderson's childhood was marked by poverty and hardship. His formative years in the working-class suburbs of Sydney shaped his worldview and ignited a passion for giving voice to the disenfranchised. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and The Rolling Stones, he found solace in music and began writing songs as a teenager.
The Rise of Rose Tattoo
In 1976, Anderson co-founded Rose Tattoo, a hard-rocking quartet that quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live performances. The band's debut album, "Rose Tattoo," released in 1978, became an instant classic, showcasing their raw aggression and catchy hooks. The album's title track, "Bad Boy for Love," became a signature anthem for Anderson and the band.
Bad Days and the Height of Success
The release of Rose Tattoo's second album, "Assault & Battery," in 1979, marked the pinnacle of the band's commercial success. The album featured the iconic single "Bad Days," which became a global hit and solidified Anderson's status as a rock legend. The song's poignant lyrics and infectious melody resonated with audiences worldwide, capturing the struggles and aspirations of the working class.
Controversies and Challenges
Anderson's outspoken nature and fiery lyrics often stirred controversy. In 1983, he was charged with inciting a riot at a rock festival in Sydney. The incident led to a period of legal battles and introspection for Anderson. Despite the setbacks, he remained unwavering in his commitment to his art and his belief in the power of music.
Solo Career and Later Years
In the 1990s, Anderson embarked on a successful solo career, releasing several acclaimed albums. He also ventured into acting, appearing in television shows and films. In 2008, Rose Tattoo reunited for a series of tours, bringing Anderson's iconic vocals to a new generation of fans.
Legacy and Impact
Angry Anderson's influence on Australian music is undeniable. His raw and passionate songs gave voice to the marginalized and helped shape the nation's cultural identity. His music continues to inspire and connect with audiences today, serving as a testament to his enduring legacy as a true rock 'n' roll icon.
Members of Rose Tattoo
* Angry Anderson - Lead vocals
* Peter Wells - Lead guitar
* Mick Cocks - Rhythm guitar
* Ian Rilen - Bass guitar
* Dallas "Storm" Royal - Drums
Discography
Rose Tattoo Albums:
* Rose Tattoo (1978)
* Assault & Battery (1979)
* Scarred for Life (1981)
* Southern Stars (1984)
* Beats from a Single Drum (1986)
Angry Anderson Solo Albums:
* Beats From A Single Drum (1990)
* Blood from Stone (1995)
* No Time to Cry (1997)