Hawkwind

Hawkwind: Pioneers of Space Rock, Proto-Punk Legends, and Psychedelic Sound Explorers

Dive into the sonic universe of Hawkwind, the groundbreaking English rock band hailed as one of the originators of space rock. Formed in November 1969, Hawkwind has been a constantly evolving force in music, fearlessly blending hard rock, progressive rock, and mind-bending psychedelic rock into their signature sound. More than just a band, Hawkwind is a collective, having collaborated with numerous musicians, dancers, and writers throughout their decades-long journey.

Often cited as an influential proto-punk band, Hawkwind`s music explores themes of urban decay, dystopian futures, and fantastical science fiction, captivating audiences with their visionary lyrics.

While their lineup has been a revolving door of talent, featuring legendary figures like Nik Turner, Huw Lloyd-Langton, Del Dettmar, Lemmy Kilmister (yes, that Lemmy!), Simon King, Robert Calvert, the literary genius Michael Moorcock, Simon House, and even Ginger Baker, Hawkwind is undeniably synonymous with its founder, singer, songwriter, and guitarist Dave Brock. He remains the sole original member, steering the ship through the ever-changing cosmos of the band`s sound.

Hawkwind achieved mainstream success with their iconic track "Silver Machine", a 1972 anthem that soared to number three in the UK charts. They followed up with further chart hits like "Urban Guerrilla" and "Shot Down in the Night", solidifying their place in rock history. From 1971 to 1993, Hawkwind charted an impressive twenty-two albums in the UK, followed by another nine between 2012 and 2024, showcasing their enduring appeal and unwavering creativity.

The Birth of a Space Rock Legend: Hawkwind`s Formation (1969)

The seeds of Hawkwind were sown in the London psychedelic scene. Dave Brock and Mick Slattery, veterans of the band Famous Cure, connected with bassist John Harrison, discovering a shared passion for electronic music. This shared interest sparked the formation of a new musical endeavor. A music weekly ad brought in 17-year-old drummer Terry Ollis, completing the initial lineup. Friends of Brock, Nik Turner, and Michael "Dik Mik" Davies initially offered transportation and gear assistance, but were quickly drawn into the burgeoning band, adding their unique energy to the Hawkwind sound.