As if this wasn’t enough to cause stress within the band, Sham 69 has suffered since inception from lineup changes though oftentimes the revolving door kept the changing within a finite number of players with Pursey, Parsons and drummer Ian Whitewood being the longest constants. “But then somebody tells you that you’re owned by someone else, so what’s it all about? It’s money, work it out.” (“ Money“ 1979). With the rise of the National Front in populist British politics in the 70’s, Sham 69 would inadvertently draw support from the skinhead and neo-Nazi ranks of the movement causing increasingly violent conflicts during their live performances. Noted for topical lyrics that often invited dialogue for unity within the scene and a sense of solidarity for the common man in the turbulent days of James Callaghan’s ministry which set up the better-known economic environment of Margaret Thatcher’s 80’s, Sham’s history would be shaped by the politics of their time. “Now I’ve got the chance I don’t care about what I do, when I done them things I done them just for you and now I’m getting out coming back for you” (“ Borstal Breakout” 1978). Early pioneers of Oi!, Sham 69’s musical style has taken its cues from hard rock and pub rock built on a steady and well-gelled rhythm section punctuated early on by the guitars of Harris and Dave Parsons’ since ’77. Formed in 1975 by singer Jimmy Pursey and guitarist Neil Harris in the Surrey village of Hersham in southeast England, Sham 69 has long been a polarizing figure in punk rock history for its influence, success, inner conflicts and its fanatical attraction to skinhead culture regardless of political affiliation. “You’re telling me to grow up, but Harry don’t you see? If I tried to act my age I wouldn’t be me” (“ Hurry Up Harry” 1978).
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