Songs That Changed Music: Ian Dury & The Blockheads - Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick

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With its distinctive 16-notes-to-the-bar bassline and unashamedly honky sax solo (played on two saxes at once), Ian Dury and the Blockheads’ signature hit was certainly one of the more idiosyncratic Number 1s of the 1970s. The same could be said of their inimitable frontman, who exemplified the post-punk era’s particular ability to allow unlikely and extraordinary characters to infiltrate the mainstream.
Then he met Chaz Jankel after a Kilburns gig. The latter disbanded, and the pianist-guitarist’s tunes and Dury’s words provided the foundation for a new group, the Blockheads (including Kilburns saxophonist Davey Payne). Dury’s fortunes were transformed: they produced such classic singles as Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll and What a Waste, along with the 1977 Top 5 album, New Boots and Panties!!
"Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick" was first released as a single on Stiff Records in the UK on 23 November 1978. Written by Dury and the Blockheads' multi-instrumentalist Chaz Jankel, it is the group's most successful single, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart in January 1979 as well as reaching the top three in Ireland, Australia and New Zealand, and it was also a top 20 hit in several European countries.
The song was recorded in The Workhouse Studio on the Old Kent Road, London, the same place Dury's debut album New Boots and Panties!! had been recorded. It was produced by Laurie Latham, who had been producing Dury's records since his debut solo single "Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll" in August 1977, although Latham is uncredited on the single. The song was recorded live with all the Blockheads placed in different positions in the studio's live area, with Jankel playing a Bechstein grand piano, Mickey Gallagher playing the Hammond organ, and Dury sat on a stool in the centre singing into a hand-held microphone.
At least 11 takes of the song were recorded before one, reportedly an early take, was chosen for the single release. Gallagher remains jaded about this method, and much of the band as well as producer Latham remain unhappy with the chosen take's mix, claiming it to be too dominated by piano and vocals.
Just three years prior to reaching the top spot in January 1979, the edgy singer-narrator-wordsmith dubbed “the Count Dracula of vernacular” had been the thirtysomething, struggling frontman of Kilburn and the High Roads, a seemingly washed-up, chaotic, bedraggled bunch of misfits and miscreants. Left with a severely withered arm and leg following a childhood bout of polio, Dury had already overcome disability, taunts and school days he described as “heavy-duty sadism” and “unmitigated hell” to become an unconventional but riveting live performer.
"Hit Me with Your Rhythm Stick" was named the 12th best single of 1978 by the writers of British music magazine NME, and best single of 1979 in the annual 'Pazz & Jop' poll organised by music critic Robert Christgau in The Village Voice. It was also named the 3rd best post-punk 7" ever made by Fact magazine. By September 2017, it had sold over 1.29 million copies in the UK, making it the 114th biggest selling single of all time in the UK.
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[@Producelikeapro]

What other songs and artists do you think changed music? Let me know below!

[@MichaelDisney]

Heaven 17 - Penthouse and Pavement (with those session bass solos) Stranglers - (the Martin Rushent stuff) Eurythmics - Touch (another great bass session) Great vid - thanks a bunch.

[@xxhank]

Birthday by The Sugarcubes or New Rose by The Damned

[@Tido-Dito]

The Cure - The Caterpillar. This song set the standard (music , clothing , style) for New Wave music in the 80s.

[@Jonhilsea]

Great video again. I've got two choices for you Warren. Tubeway Army's Are 'Friends' Electric ? and Paul Hardcastle's 19. Keep up your great work.

[@Mr.A_LDN]

Prince 'When Doves Cry' A number one with no bass... And didn't need it either. Brilliant

[@hutonthehill]

Such a beautiful and movng tribute to Ian Dury and his amazing band. Thank you Warren!

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@Mr.A_LDN]

One of the best bass lines of all time

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed Jerry!

[@Producelikeapro]

@Daz Nelson YES! I saw Norman play with Wilco Johnson at the Stars and Stripes in Carlisle! It was AMAZING!

[@DaveyMulholland]

@@Producelikeapro Carlisle eh? Are you a fellow Cumbrian?

[@Producelikeapro]

@@DaveyMulholland I lived in Carlisle from ‘83-86 and played in club bands. It was an amazing time

[@pit2ryan3]

Jerry abbott - He also played in some Clash records...

[@thecinematiccrapalliance]

2024, 50 year old American, just discovering this song for the first time, and I'm just floored by these guys. Thanks for the passionate, deep dive into their history. Fascinating.

[@DeidreL9]

Omg l love Ian Dury. He was brilliant. My mother is 87, she has Alzheimer’s, but she STILL goes around singing this and I Wanna Be Straight. It can be hilariously inappropriate but she knows EXACTLY what she’s singing, she always admired Ian’s talent and guts. We were blessed with him:) Edit: Warren, thank you for this beautiful episode, you did this with, as ever, a lot of feeling and class. Big hug from Australia🤗 Sharing this far and wide.

[@strangehermitage2299]

The emotion you express at the end is very moving. Thank you for letting down your guard and moreso for not reshooting without the welling up. The respect you hold for this song is abundantly evident. Great video.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@dye5915]

"Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick" is one of the most important tracks in musical history. Ian Dury Is Legend status

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed 100%!

[@bobeschism9426]

There ain't half been some clever bastards, and Ian was one of the cleverest. Brilliant episode, and very touching. Thanks Warren.

[@Producelikeapro]

'Lucky Bleeder, Lucky Bleeder!' Ian was one of kind, one of best of best, I cried when I found he had died, such a huge part of my musical development!

[@GRAHAMAUS]

Arrgh!! Just made the same point, then saw yours, haha. Great minds...

[@louismiddleton1931]

I also believe the Blockheads are one of the most underrated bands ever. Very tight and very clever. Great band. The highroads, in all their incarnations were awesome too.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@GRAHAMAUS haha indeed! Thanks ever so much

[@Producelikeapro]

@@louismiddleton1931 amazing band!!

[@paulb6630]

“This is the power of music you do something truly amazing, something truly incredible, It breaks down all barriers and all stereotypes” My hats off to you as well @Warren Huart

[@Producelikeapro]

Thank you Paul, that really means a lot! I just watched it again with my friend got very emotional!

[@paulb6630]

@@Producelikeapro It's clearly heartfelt and moved me as well.

[@neilloughran4437]

@@Producelikeapro Really great Warren - I was feeling it myself...

[@Producelikeapro]

@@paulb6630 thanks ever so much! I only did one take of the video, Clayton, who edited this did a wonderful job! About half way through I started to well up.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@neilloughran4437 thanks ever so much! That really means a lot!

[@marka2520]

"I have to say.." that's about the part when I choked too. He wasn't a singer, he was a poet fronting a band. Hit me with your rhythm stick was a hit over Christmas and I'll never forget that year.

[@Producelikeapro]

Exactly Mark! Thanks ever so much!

[@Rjhs001]

I remember walking into a small, dark nightclub with my mates and that song was playing. I already knew it of course but that song in that place at that time is an event I will never forget.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@Rjhs001 that’s wonderful! Thanks ever so much for sharing

[@tan319]

Thank you for paying tribute to and highlighting such a great track and group of originals.

[@tonyzed6831]

He was another Jim Morrison... but funnier and more real. A funky punky Morrison.

[@stevenbrown1225]

"Shall I mourn your decline with some Thunderbird Wine and a black handkerchief.... Miss you, Ian Dury.

[@Producelikeapro]

Sweet Gene Vincent!! I miss him too!

[@pillmuncher67]

Hey, German dude here. I discovered Mr. Dury when I was 16 in 1984. My favorite song of his is Superman's Big Sister. I miss him so much.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for the great comment

[@jaysilverstone7221]

Saw him live at the apollo in Manchester in 1980 on my 18th birthday. Stunning, chaotic, funky circus of a show.

[@Producelikeapro]

That’s incredible! I wish I got to see him live!

[@brewt1mer]

I understand why you feel so emotional about Ian as I do as well..I distinctly remember first hearing this song in the back of my mums hillman estate in Walthamstow when it was first released..I was 8 years old..the memory remains for me and so does my love for Ian and the blockheads wonderful music..

[@Producelikeapro]

He was an incredible talent indeed! Yes, he really affected me as well.

[@outtathyme5679]

Ian was really special

[@Producelikeapro]

@@outtathyme5679 Yes! He was!!

[@wellspringsltd.6539]

Thanks for this. Ian and Chaz informed so much of my youth and Nrw Boots, DIY etc.. remain on my turntable 40 plus years later.

[@rosemary_rose0]

young ian dury fan here, 16 and i cannot express how fucking great this mans lyrics were, an inspiration for me in my writing when i write lyrics. The best lyricist ever in many ways, especially his lesser known 80s albums "Your eyes are focused on a screen of your own choosing, Your mind is busy with distractions of its own, my imminent departure is the flavour of the evening, you leant me a welcome i paid interest on the loan" Excerpt from "Lonely (Town)" one of his forgotten greats.

[@simonslaughter6098]

This was the first record I ever bought on my own I was 11years old, it’s still my favourite song, god bless you Ian and them great blockheads

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for sharing! Huge fan

[@AdrianBurns]

I remember when I first heard this song on the radio and it was a case of "ooh, I've gotta have this". Got on a bus and grabbed myself a copy from Selectadisc on Market Street (Nottingham) and I still have it in my collection. I was also lucky enough to see them perform it live at the the original Madstock (Madness reunion gig) at Finsbury Park, August 9th 1992. After the Blockheads left the stage, John Lydon somehow snuck his way onto the stage, grabbed the mic and proclaimed very loudly, "you've seen the best, now drag on the rest!". Brave, considering 38,000 Madness fans were standing a few feet away, but everyone laughed and cheered, and I think even Madness themselves would happily concede the statement was inarguably true. They all loved and respected Ian enormously.

[@StellarWorks2023]

I was born in 1971 and this band was a part of my musical tapestry growing up in London. It wasn't until much later in life that I learned of Mr. Dury's disability and it's strange but having not heard their music for years I am only now really appreciating the virtuosity of the players. The writing and lyrical delivery of Ian Dury is like no-one else I've ever heard, in a band that was exceptional in a number of ways. Big up to the Blockheads and rest in peace Ian Dury, an original diamond geezer. The Universe broke the mould after making you man. We feel you Warren.

[@richardhoulton4016]

What a band they were! And what a sad loss, at far too young an age, Ian Dury was.

[@Producelikeapro]

I agree 100%!!

[@jasonvotaw5966]

"There ain't half been some clever bastards!" - Ian Drury was one for sure

[@Producelikeapro]

‘Lucky bleeders lucky bleeders’ haha yes! Certainly was!!

[@danielhoskins4690]

God that song reminds me of my grandad. I really love it.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@danielhoskins4690 haha thanks!

[@steveperkins3215]

He lives as long as people remember and enjoy him and his music. I was young then and loved it, I still love it now. You have helped me remember Ian and your touching tribute was very special. Thank you.

[@joeg3911]

Ian Dury was certainly one of the best songwriters of all time. His lyrics were original and intelligent. The music was interesting. A fantastic mix of various styles. One of my favorites!

[@ComicPower]

I'm a 48 year old American and never heard of this artist or the music here and I thought I knew everything. It was good to learn about something new to me

[@Producelikeapro]

That means a lot! Ian was so incredible!

[@toejoe9105]

New Boots and Panties is one of my all time favorite albums. Saw Ian in concert, opened for Lou Reed. I thought Ian was better than Lou that night. RIP Ian. You are missed.

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! Envious of that incredible show!

[@toejoe9105]

@@Producelikeapro Most of the crowd in that small theatre didn't understand the music of Ian Drury and the Blockheads. They wanted to see Lou Reed, (as did I). But I had already fallen in love with New Boots and Panties. Ian cemented his legendary status for me that night. What a talent. What a band.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed to both! Amazing talent and amazing band! Great memory!

[@andywells7525]

Ian was one of rock n rolls true British characters !! god bless you Ian and thanks for the tears ... Andy x

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! Thanks Andy for the great comment

[@PeterPrestonUK]

I'm off to see The Blockheads live tonight and this popped into my feed. Wonderful to see how much it meant to you. This song has been with me my whole life and tonight I hope to meet the icon that is Norman Watt-Roy - nobody does Bass Face like him.

[@freddysquirenaranjo4859]

Coolio, hoz woz the Gig!

[@leoburke8466]

As a fan of jazz, rock, and punk, I now understand why this song tickled that spot in my brain. Thank you Warren. The Stranglers deserve a mention hear.

[@Producelikeapro]

Yes, they do! On the list!! Many thanks

[@cabuffal0]

What a singer with his special own character.

[@Producelikeapro]

Exactly!

[@kirstentv1002]

Damn you!!! You also had me going there at the end!! We were all very lucky to have had Ian Dury among us.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed 100%!

[@SubTroppo]

In '78 or so, I was on a company training course in Walthamstow (of all places!), and in the pub at lunch time there was Ian and others sitting just opposite. After a while they all left, and I drank the remains of Ian's pint of beer (just under a half as I recall); and that is my claim to fame. Emotions indeed!

[@3020AlexA]

For me the bass line makes this song, I’m a little surprised it wasn’t written around it. Every now and then I try and nail the bass line, but it’s tough to do justice. The blockheads were a great band - so tight. “Punk attitude with extraordinary musicianship”- couldn’t agree more

[@Producelikeapro]

Indeed, everything that makes music great!

[@davidcollins5891]

Brilliant episode and an iconic song. Such a brilliant inventive bass line, I use it all the time for a 16th note workout and still can’t do it justice. It’s just perfect for the song, pure genius

[@Producelikeapro]

@@davidcollins5891 Thanks ever so much for sharing that!

[@neilloughran4437]

Brilliant! This era of music (76-81) was magical... Ian Dury, The Police, Blondie, Joe Jackson, etc... so much diversity going on with the mixture of styles.

[@mariodriessen9740]

Blondie was American though.

[@neilloughran4437]

@@mariodriessen9740 yeah true! I've corrected the original post!

[@Producelikeapro]

Yes, such an amazing time!

[@Producelikeapro]

@@fvefve12 agreed 100%!

[@wolfgangfalck1250]

Then there is German Band Ideal from that time, a shame I was only (8-13) years old at the time. On the other hand it helped that such music existed when one had to suffer through some of the bad mainstream 80's Music that is so overhyped nowadays. Another German Band that changed music was called TRIO. Listen to them live they were great.

[@Friedsan]

It is the power of music!!!! Long live Ian! Today it wouldnt be possible for Ian Dury to reach the success he reached in the 70ies. At that time, it wouldnt have been possible, in spite of his talent, to have reached that level of mainstream success in other countries apart from england and uk. So, cheers to the pirates of the north! Keep the great music coming. A punk of the south....

[@Wolfington]

Not just a breakdown of a great song, but also a tribute to a unique talent - niceness.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much! Yes, I'm a huge fan!

[@JohnTLyon]

Ian & The Blockheads were absolutely unique! Well done!

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much! Agreed!

[@bruffie]

One of the greatest rhythm sections to ever grace the stage. Unique songwriting and Ian was a brilliant front man.

[@Producelikeapro]

Very well said!!

[@bruffie]

@@Producelikeapro Thanks for doing this. Ian Dury was very special. I write and record so I've subscribed to your channel. Some fascinating insights to the production process. Cheers.

[@jethrobradley7850]

As a small kid, I saw Ian Dury and The Blockheads on the main stage at Glastonbury in the early 80s and I remember everyone going wild for this track. Still one of my favourite live music experiences after all these years

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for sharing Jethro!

[@markbeeson5674]

The Blockheads created one of the coolest guitar lick ever on S&D&R&R. Thanks for highlighting this tune.

[@crackityjones777]

Thanks for this Warren, I also got emotional listening to you talk about how important this song was. It changed my life, I was six years old when it was released and one of my earliest memories is lying next to the radio and smiling at the line, "Hit me with your rhythm stick, its nice to be a lunatic." That was the day I fell in love with pop music.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for your great comment! I really appreciate it!

[@ottodidakt3069]

Ian deserves every little bit of the praise, he's long and forgotten for the new generations, they've got no fck'n clue what they're missing out on !

[@Producelikeapro]

We are doing our best my friend!!

[@publicspeakingconfidence]

Ian Dury - one of the best! In late '79 I was lucky enough to interview him for my fanzine.

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! That's amazing Paul!

[@publicspeakingconfidence]

@@Producelikeapro I was 18 at the time and yes it was amazing :-) Still have the recording, but rather faint

[@freddysquirenaranjo4859]

Post it fella@@publicspeakingconfidence

[@teslatravels4197]

I had the pleasure of working with Norman Watt-Roy when he was with Wilko Johnson in the 80s. He is a beast. His energy live was insane. He always came off the stage looking like he just stepped out of the shower. The only thing I remember about that time that was more impressive was Wilko himself. Playing live, he broke a string. He carried on playing the song. Pulled a new string out of his pocket and replaced the broken one without stopping. Tuned the guitar once the song finished and carried on with the show. Legend? Definitely. Magician? Maybe.

[@stuartcarswell2815]

Seen the Blockheads a number of times alas after Ian died...met Norman, Chas and Mickey. Norman is the best bass player I've ever seen! Bass and man as one... astonishing player

[@Producelikeapro]

I was super nervous meeting Norman when I saw him with Wilko in the early/mid '80s! Huge talent!

[@stuartcarswell2815]

@@Producelikeapro he's so down to Earth wouldn't let us go until HE bought us a round!...a bonafide Legend ❤️

[@Producelikeapro]

@@stuartcarswell2815 wow! That's amazing!

[@dreamscuba]

I love this song. It was the first single I bought as a kid. Ian Dury was way cool. You brought tears to my eyes...Thank you.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for sharing that!

[@stephanleo]

It was a big hit in Germany too! Cheers and thank you Ian, wherever you are !!!

[@rayjames433]

Agree one of the greats taken away so young Hit Me still gets played and enjoyed by everyone every time you hear it one of the great 80's songs that will be forever Ian Dury what a champion proves that a disability has no affect on talent

[@jackb8097]

Nice piece Warren. Ian Dury was not only a legend but decent human being too, self-effacing, humble and unique. I was a fan while I was at school in the late 70's & was lucky enough to see him live in '99 while I was working in Dubai. He really enjoyed himself on stage & the audience really fed off that too. Great night, great guy & someone we lost too soon.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed, amazing human being and incredibly talent!

[@detlef5033]

Warren, thank you so much for this emotional tribute to Ian Dury. I loved Ian and his cool music in my youth, but unfortunately lost him from my musical sight until a few years ago. Now, as an older person, all I see is the brilliance, diversity and poetry of his lyricism. It not infrequently brings tears of joy and pleasure to my eyes when I hear his varied, multi-layered music, with the bitter certainty that he is no longer with us.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for your wonderful comment! I really appreciate it

[@c.a.savage5689]

Really glad l found this video. We saw Ian Drury in Paris at the Bataclan in the late 90s. He performed with style and panache and the crowd loved him. A memorable concert.

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! That’s amazing

[@hydraxisfrimon9785]

Tears well warranted...We have been so lucky to have been alive to witness a flowering of some wonderful, immortal performers and to have them move us and enchant us with their words and music. The seventies was a rare decade, capturing and encapsulating a rapid flow of styles and imagery, and Ian Dury was a true one-of-a-kind right there in the middle of it, focusing extraordinary musicians around him to create a magical fusion of sounds. Loved you guys, thanks for the memory Warren, for breaking it down and showing us exactly how great Ian Dury and the Blockheads were (and still are!) and why

[@bazmac26]

Respect for a true original artist and to yourself for unabashed emotional appreciation for Ian Dury. 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@Producelikeapro]

It was truly amazing

[@ladylaois8184]

I was born in 1960, so my music favourite was 1970, onward. But I’ve only recently found a real passion for Ian and the Blockheads. I’m glad I saved it and can now relish in its incredible ness

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks for sharing!

[@davehall8584]

oh my! when you got tearful...i wanted to join in...i understand..what a TOTAL JOY Ian and his friends gave us...

[@captainswing4487]

The finest music known to man...my hero.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@captainswing4487]

@@Producelikeapro My pleasure..Blockheads were admired by Steely Dan apparently because the band were so tight.

[@dpoolx]

Love the honesty and emotion. Glad you left it in.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much Sam!

[@stasgunkel2839]

Wonderful to see the Blockheads get some recognition. Absolute killer band :). I can vividly remember the first time I heard the sax solo on reasons to be cheerful and I was hooked...

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much Stas!

[@MilesThorne]

Musical perfection. The memories of that song from 78 are still so vivid. Still sounds unique and amazing. An emotional video to watch, thank you

[@Antipodean33]

I was blessed to see Ian and the Blockheads way down here in Adelaide South Australia, it was a really special gig. Although he was drinking heavily during the gig, he smashed a bottle over his his head collapsed and a couple of Rastas come running out, helped him to his feet and Ian literally hanging off the mike stand continued. I've seen tons of bands, roadied for and in played bands, but this gig is burned into my memory

[@richirichjam]

Norman is not of this world, seen him play numerous times, brilliant!

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! Master musician!

[@ajw9533]

I saw him a few years ago gigging with Wilko Johnson and a much younger drummer. They exhausted the poor drummer. Brilliant gig.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@ajw9533 yes, I saw Wilko and Norman play in '83 or '84 at the Stars and Stripes in Carlisle! Great gig!

[@ZupTepi]

In these strange lonely days of lockdown here in Italy, I have this song in my walking playing list. I go out every night, right before curfew, and listen to some great music. When this song starts, I find myself hopping, trying to keep the bass pace, which is hilarious. Thank you for this video, it was very much appreciated, sorry for my limited English. Love ❤️

[@TheSynthnut]

So heartfelt and genuine, thank you for that. Ian was a unique character and the world would have been a lesser place without him.

[@donkick2622]

In 2014, my Daughter who was attending The University of Massachusetts at Amherst was allowed to do a Semester in London. I was able to get a few days off to join her. The nearest Underground to her Dorm was The Kilburn Park Station. Down the block from the Station was a Mural painted on some Wooden Boards which portrayed several 1970's New Wave Bands including Ian Dury &The Blockheads. Although she knew some of them, I explained the Irony of the name Kilburn And The High Roads regarding Ian Dury and the Station Name. And, yes, we did go by bus and walk across Abbey Road where some nice "Chap" took our picture!. Your presentation was Wonderfully Heartfelt! I noticed that certain portions of the Bassline reminded me of a sped-up version of the Bassline from Time Of The Season.

[@philoshaughnessy906]

Like a musical time machine, all I have to do is hear the track and I'm back in 1979

[@Producelikeapro]

Me too! I’m a little kid again!

[@jemwand2530]

All us fans of Ian and the bands music get a bit emotional when recalling how that music infected and inspired us to keep making music. Good call Warren, bless you.

[@Producelikeapro]

Exactly! Agreed 100%!!

[@inin725]

It's strange but Ian' death affected me more than any other musician. Probably because he's been in my life longer than most, and he was such an unassuming guy. Miss him like a best friend.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@inin725 thanks ever so much for sharing that

[@williammunny4679]

Yep, God bless Ian Dury, great lyrics, great humour.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! God bless him!

[@ajhl9898]

First heard the new boots & panties album in 1981when I was about 9 years old, sitting in my dads best friends car (scimitar gte) outside a pub In Eltham south London while they had a lunchtime session...loved it then and still love it now.

[@Producelikeapro]

That’s a great time to have discovered it! Fantastic album

[@stevebass8352]

I loved this track, the Blockheads being one of the best bands in London in their day. RIP Ian.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! RIP Ian

[@redlioness6627]

Wow, this episode really got to you deep down didn't it! That moment when you said you were a fan, I totally felt that, and your whole attitude and demeanour changed to one filled with joyful excitement and enthusiasm, I could feed off that I really could, and then you broke down, I almost broke down with you, Ian Dury, an artist that gets doesn't so much geet under your skin but gets in to your soul. R.I.P. Ian, thanks for the music, amd thanks for the memories.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@shoneyis]

You moved me with your love to this man. Thanks. I feel the same way. He is larger than life and so emotional and inspiring

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! Thanks ever so much

[@matto9734]

You described perfectly today why I loved this man/band so much in the past!!! Thank you from Berlin/Germany. Musicality and attitude... ;-)

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much! I’m glad to be able to help! Beautiful Berlin! I was supposed to be there last year but we had to postpone for obvious reasons

[@riddellthomas2185]

The producer said it was a terrible mix, and was listing things he thought were wrong with it.. i just hear a great song, as most of us do.. the saxophone on this song always stood out to me..another element that makes this song unique. Very Roland Kirk.. music is a powerful thing... all the best Warren

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much Riddell!

[@wbertie2604]

A few years before Jack Lancaster of Blodwyn Pig used to do the double sax thing, following on from Kirk. But on this, it's the dirty, punk-jazz cousin. When I first heard the song it was like being hit over the head with a stick as it was so unexpected yet so incredibly brilliant. Such a rawness and energy. I'd also say I am not actually a huge fan of Ian Dury and the Blockheads overall musically, but a huge fan of the can-do, devil-may-care, go-and-do-it attitude that Dury brought to the world. Personally I think he probably had a not insignificant influence SOCIALLY on a generation maybe almost as much as a musical one.

[@riddellthomas2185]

@@wbertie2604 From John Lyndon to Madness to Robbie Williams.. quite a cross section of people to have influenced

[@wbertie2604]

@@riddellthomas2185 Lydon and Madness I can understand as they were contemporaries, but good to see that his legacy was wider reaching. In the early 1980s there was a lot of what I'd describe as punk attitude TV with a message of physical issues not being and impediment to creative expression and living a rich life (which should go without saying, but didn't back then). It's hard to think that Dury wasn't an influence.

[@moy_moy85]

20:47 - geezus, that welling of emotion. Maybe it's just the hangover talking but oof, that got me in the feels. So great to see such a genuinely passionate presenter.

[@Producelikeapro]

That’s very kind of you to say. He was a one of a kind artist!

[@cooperswayadventures]

Say no more my friend... You had me going there too... Walk in a proper local pub full of likewise that was laughing as you open the door to hear Ian screaming through it... Brown Cow in Lancaster... Blindfold to the jukebox... Push any button and tunes would flow through the viens... Fantastic channel, sublime, amazing, don't stop, and let the emotions come... You had me there you 👍👍👍👍🍻🍻

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much my friend for sharing that!!

[@the_atomshop]

the promo video for Rhythm Stick was filmed at Birmingham Odeon Theatre UK over 2 days. I worked on it. Dury was a lovely bloke. Always had time for a chat. It took a lot of patience to film stuff like this. Take after re-take stopping often for a make-up check on Dury and to spray him with fake sweat. Great times, great song. Thanks for this review.

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! Thanks ever so much for sharing that! That must have been amazing to be around and what a wonderful memory to have and be able to share! Thanks ever so much

[@accobodla]

Worked with quite a few Stiff artists but sadly never met Ian. Did however have the pleasure of working with the Blockheads. Incredible musicians. Thanks for a great episode Warren.

[@Producelikeapro]

Hi Aldo! Very cool! Thanks ever so much for sharing!

[@terrythekittieful]

Man, I didn't expect you to get teary at the end there just as I was getting teary. All I want for my birthday is another birthday, bless you Ian wherever you are.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much Terry!

[@SteveGouldinSpain]

It's a rich tribute to the diversity of the popular-music landscape of the time, that I recall visiting The Record Shop in Kingston-u-Thames and returning with New Boots and Panties, The Kick Inside and Never Mind the Bollox. I was still a school-kid and that cleaned me out such that I had to walk back to Chessington because I couldn't afford the bus-fair home! What a haul though! Happy Days!

[@petesawchuk]

That was one hell of a day at the record shop!

[@jeffblack5024]

1979 was the most eclectic year ever. We’re never see its like again. Post-punk, disco, ska, reggae and nascent electronica all jostling for attention. There was literally a ‘what the hell is that’ moment every week.

[@Studio-62]

1978 I was 17 years old. I’d already started listening to punk when New Boots came out. It got lots of play when I bought it, and I still have the vinyl. I was a budding guitar player and really into music. Other classic recordings out at the same time were Iggy’s New Values, Devos first album, and of course Never Mind the Bollocks, an album that is still talked about today. My friends and I did know about Kilburn, and that Dury was disabled, and I believe two other Kilburn members were also disabled. New Boots is an eclectic mix with excellent musicians. However the album contains 3 of the greatest punk songs ever written, Blockheads, Plastow Patricia, and the absolute classic Blackmail Man. I then recall Rhythm Stick coming out and thinking how different it was from the tunes on New Boots. But it was catchy and I quickly got into it. But nothing captured the magic of side 1 of New Boots, with Sex And Drugs And Rock And Roll, Laughing, And then those 3 punk tunes one offer another. The follow up album was a disappointment for me, a switch in direction to dance music. However these days I realize that was an excellent album as well, nicely recorded with tight arrangements. No surprise to get choked up. Dury is a piece of a lot of people’s history.

[@wtcornet]

Great video, I loved Tony Franklin breaking down Norman Watt-Roy's amazing bass parts.

[@WalterSobchak1000]

Norman & Charlie Charles, what a rhythm section

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! Amazing!

[@WalterSobchak1000]

Thanks Warren for featuring one of my favourite bands, Ian was a lyrical genius

[@Producelikeapro]

@@WalterSobchak1000 agreed! Complete and utter lyrical genius!

[@ginnybourne6374]

I had the great pleasure of seeing them live in May '78 at the Ipswich Gaumont. I remember the old boy on the door asking us who the band were as he hadn't seen anything like it since the Beatles. He said people were trying to get into the theatre through the air vents and all sorts! Without doubt the best live band performance I have ever seen; ending the show with 'Sex and drugs and rock and roll' and Ian throwing handfuls of badges out into the audience. Each had either 'sex and', 'drugs and', 'rock and' or 'roll and' written on it.

[@keithwhitehead567]

I remember Ian miming into a beer bottle at a Christmas party in Barbados to the gold New Boots and Panties album. Wonderful memories of a wonderful man. ‘What’s the haps ‘ Ian ? as he once said to me.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for sharing that Kevin!

[@Findtheflavour]

As a 24 yr old who’s grown up listening to the band thanks to my dad, I can’t stress how much of an influence Ian and the band have had on me. Still see the Blockheads play at least once a year and they’re just as good as they have ever been.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much for sharing that Matt!

[@ewetoo]

Seeing the Blockheads on tour in Brisbane way back in 1981 is one of my treasured memories, Ian belting out Spasticus Autisticus and the crowd roaring it back at him, it was fantastic.

[@Producelikeapro]

That’s amazing!!

[@ewetoo]

@@Producelikeapro It left a deep impression on many of us and was one of the catalysts to my becoming a musician.

[@Producelikeapro]

@@ewetoo mine too! Thanks ever so much for sharing

[@roybennett6330]

oh to be older and see them live.. countdown not the same

[@majorfeelgoodrecords2740]

When he said, Disablement cuts across barriers of class and creed, I thought So does music, it cuts through everything He truly was and is a inspiration. Thanks for this amazing post 😃 Cheers 🎼🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@michaeldefalco171]

I get teared up with you, a massively underrated talent. Thanks for sharing your heart...

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much Michael!

[@treubuchet]

I found the final minutes of this quite emotional, as evidently you did too. Thank you for not editing it out, it makes this video rather special and personal.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much! That really means a lot

[@stevenwelp7165]

Thank you, Warren, for your heartfelt tears of passionate love of music.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@robbin4720]

You had me crying at the end too. Love this song. I was 19 when it came out and it blew me away.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much

[@horowizard]

Ian Dury And The Blockheads came to my college in the late 70s so I was able to see them and was totally flabbergasted by their performance. What a band! New Boots And Panties was such a great album but when Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick came out everybody that was into Dury was once again totally blown away. There's so much going on with ear-candy galore. A real burner that never gets old!

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed! An absolute masterpiece!

[@mikkelsenior3877]

Really great work!! Ian Dury seems to be a little underrated nowadays, nice to see a great edited video about him and his music

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much. Yes, I’m a huge fan

[@TonyJBrennan]

Nice one! I saw him live in Dublin, sadly on his final tour - he was magnificent . I play his music often , you learn alot from an Ian dury album .

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed 100%!

[@urbeke]

Ian Dury has along with Bowie been the greatest source of inspiration in my life. I saw him at Gröna Lund Stockholm 1979. He wore a suit made of newsprint paper and played solo on a pink toy flute. It was fantastic. Please make a video on Carole King. Thanks and a lot of love from Sweden ❤️🇸🇪❤️🇸🇪❤️🇸🇪❤️

[@Thetache]

Good to see the power of his music still brings up those emotions, which is the true power of music and the greatest expression of the artists talent. The musicianship of the band is incredible, Clever Trevor is my Ian Dury and the Blockheads permanent listen.

[@Producelikeapro]

Agreed 100% Stephen! Incredible band!

[@ctwyrick76]

Thank you for this, Warren. I grew up in Georgia (USA) and was in college in the late ‘70s. I worked part time for a guy who introduced me to a lot of musical artists. One was Ian Dury. I bought the New Boots album and loved the wordplay of the lyrics, especially Clevor Trevor and Billericay Dickie. Years later, with the internet, I was not only able to learn about his background (and I learned even more in your video) but I was also able to learn the meaning of some of the lyrics that are distinctly British. As an airline pilot (recently retired) when I flew to the UK I would strike up a conversation with people there about Ian. Here in the states, however, I haven’t known anybody that is aware him and his music (other than my old boss who passed away years ago). I’m glad you’re spreading the word!

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! Thanks ever so much for your wonderful comment Charles!! I really appreciate it

[@powlobo.m.b.]

I was listening to this on headphones while doing some chores here, Warren’s final consolations made me emotional as well (so I wasn’t surprised when he was too at the end..) blessed the power of art and music!

[@markmeade2937]

The man, the band and this tune are absolutely f-king brilliant, and I can’t put it no better than that 🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼

[@nondompom]

This song takes me back to my pre-teen days in the 70's. This turned my first ever drab school disco turned into an epiphany. I've never heard anything like it before, or ever since. It's still one of my best favourite songs. I'll have this played at my funeral, just to make me smile one last time.

[@Producelikeapro]

Thanks ever so much! Yes, I was very young, however it was really important

[@nondompom]

@@Producelikeapro I fully understand the emotion in your voice at the end of this brilliant KZbin clip. Some songs have this affect, other songs have that certain pull on your personal strings. This song had it all.

[@Producelikeapro]

Wow! Thanks ever so much! I really appreciate the compliment, Ian deserves as much promotion as we can give him!! A huge talent

[@pauljamesstevens4955]

Ironically, so different from everything else at the time, but simultaneously a combination of everything else at the time. Does that make sense?!

[@Producelikeapro]

That makes absolute perfect sense to me and I agree completely!

[@nomdeplume798]

One of the best bass lines as Gerry Abbott says, but surely also one of the best "backing" bands of all times.

[@Producelikeapro]

One of the best bands ever!!

[@ytrichardsenior]

You hear musicians described as 'artists' quite often, but most of the time they're just musicians. Ian Dury was an artist. The Blockheads stuff is diverse musically but it has a contiguous feel to it. That feel is Ian Dury. It is his dark humour, his intellect, his joy and sorrow. When I'm tinkering with something or on a long drive, I often go through their entire back catalogue in one go and I'm left with a certain feeling. The kind of thing you get when you watch a good film. It's a sort of melancholy tinged with hope. I think all that was best about Britain was in Ian Dury, and when he died, I think our country may have died along with him. The nostalgia I get when I listen to Reasons to be chearful etc. is based on the very words he uses. Memories of a time when Britons were all like Ian Dury. Aware of the horror of absolute reality, but irrepressibly cheerful despite all the odds. Ian Dury. God bless him.

[@ytrichardsenior]

When people say, who do you wish you'd seen live. I think I will always answer, The Blockheads, with Ian Dury, in 1979.

[@Producelikeapro]

Extremely well said! Thanks ever so much for sharing your wonderful insight

[@Producelikeapro]

I agree, that would have been such an amazing show!