Jon King: The Birth of Gang of Four & the Legacy of Entertainment!

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Jon King discusses his new book 'To Hell with Poverty' and the early history of Gang of Four with Jason Barnard of The Strange Brew Podcast.

The conversation explores the stark contrast between his privileged education and his working-class roots. King details his move to Leeds for university and the formation of Gang of Four. He recounts how a trip to New York with Andy Gill, where they experienced the early punk scene at CBGB's, inspired them to start the band. The discussion covers their early performances, signing with EMI in the UK and Warner Brothers in America.

The interview delves into specific songs and albums, particularly their debut 'Entertainment!' and its enduring influence. King discusses the development of their distinctive sound through songs like 'Love Like Anthrax' and their confrontational approach to both music and politics. He also shares stories about their conflicts with BBC's Top of the Pops and plans for the final Gang of Four tour.

Chapters

00:00:24 Book Release and Farewell Tour Announcement

Jon King announces his final year with Gang of Four, including a 32-city farewell tour and European dates. He explains how his book project developed through a chance meeting with Steve Diggle at Abbey Road Studios, leading to work with literary agent Kevin Pocklington and Little Brown publishers.

00:03:42 Class Background and Educational Experience

King discusses his working-class origins in South London and his experience at a prestigious private school in Seven Oaks. He describes the post-war environment, playing in bomb sites, and how this background influenced his perspective on class consciousness and privilege.

00:11:31 Leeds Years and Band Formation

King details his move to Leeds University's art department, the clustering of future band members, and the cultural environment of Leeds in the 1970s. He describes the city's diverse music scene and the influence of the environment on their artistic development.

00:16:43 New York Experience and Musical Development

King recounts his pivotal trip to New York with Andy Gill, their experiences at CBGB's, and how this influenced Gang of Four's formation. He describes the dangerous atmosphere of 1970s New York and their interactions with the early punk scene.

00:37:18 Record Deals and Industry Relations

King discusses their strategic approach to record deals, explains their later efforts to secure better royalty rates. He reflects on legacy of 'Entertainment!' and the imminent final Gang of Four tour.

*Further information*
To Hell with Poverty!: A Class Act: Inside the Gang of Four by Jon King