Bad News: The British Mock-Rockumentary That Paved the Way for Spinal Tap
Spinal Tap II: The End Continues is a sequel to the iconic 1984 'mockumentary' This Is Spinal Tap, but before Spinal Tap, there was Bad News, a British spoof heavy metal band. Bad News emerged in 1982 as part of the burgeoning British alternative comedy scene, led by comedians Rik Mayall, Adrian Edmondson, Nigel Planer, and Peter Richardson. The group's debut film, Bad News Tour, aired in 1983, showcasing the band's hilarious misadventures on the road.
The New Wave Of British Heavy Metal was at its peak in the early 1980s, with bands like Iron Maiden and Def Leppard dominating the scene. Bad News provided a satirical take on the metal genre, embodying the stereotypical rock band personas with characters like narcissistic frontman Vim Fuego, posh bassist Colin Grigson, aggressive guitarist Den Dennis, and drug-addled drummer Spider Webb. The film captured the essence of the rock circuit and resonated with audiences.
Bad News Tour was a precursor to the 'mock-rockumentary' genre, predating This Is Spinal Tap by a year. The film's authenticity stemmed from the comedians' firsthand experiences in the music industry, drawing inspiration from real-life encounters with rock bands and venues. The characters in Bad News were relatable and grounded in reality, making the parody all the more entertaining for viewers.
The success of Bad News Tour led to a feature-length sequel, More Bad News, culminating in a memorable performance at the 1986 Monsters Of Rock festival. The band's daring decision to play at the prestigious event showcased their commitment to the comedic act, despite facing challenges like bottles of urine being thrown at them. The experience at Donington solidified Bad News' place in rock history, with the band earning respect from fellow musicians like Lemmy and Brian May.
Recording an album and embarking on a UK tour, Bad News continued to entertain audiences with their unique blend of humor and music. The band's self-titled debut album featured comedic tracks like Warriors Of Genghis Khan and Drink Till I Die, along with a hilarious cover of Bohemian Rhapsody. Despite their success, Bad News disbanded after their tour, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and rock 'n' roll antics.
While there were no plans for a Bad News reunion, the band's impact on the comedy and music scenes remains undeniable. Rik, Ade, Nigel, and Peter's comedic genius and musical ineptitude endeared them to fans, showcasing a side of rock bands rarely seen. Bad News may have been a short-lived project, but their legacy lives on as a testament to the power of humor in the world of heavy metal.