URIAH HEEP An Introduction
In the landscape of rock music, Uriah Heep stands as a distinctive and enduring presence, leaving an indelible mark on the industry from 1970 to 1990. This article delves into the band's journey during this period, exploring their musical contributions and their significance in the context of the times.
1960s: The formation of "Uriah Heep"
The origin of the band name "Uriah Heep" traces back to the character Uriah Heep from Charles Dickens' novel, "David Copperfield," published in 1850. Uriah Heep is portrayed as a sycophantic and obsequious character, known for his insincere humility and cunning behavior.
The choice of this name by the band reflects a certain irony and perhaps a touch of satire. Formed in 1969, the band's decision to adopt the name Uriah Heep may have been influenced by the desire to convey a sense of theatricality and evoke curiosity. The character of Uriah Heep in Dickens' work was memorable for his unctuous demeanor, and the band might have found the name intriguing and fitting for their artistic identity.
1970s: The Rise and Evolution
Uriah Heep emerged onto the music scene in the early 1970s, amidst the dynamic backdrop of progressive and hard rock. The lineup of Mick Box, David Byron, Ken Hensley, Lee Kerslake, and Gary Thain created a unique blend of heavy, melodic rock that resonated with audiences. Their debut album, "Very 'Eavy... Very 'Umble," set the tone for a decade of musical exploration.
The band's sophomore release, "Salisbury," showcased their versatility with an orchestral collaboration. As the '70s progressed, Uriah Heep continued to evolve, releasing albums like "Look at Yourself" and "Demons and Wizards." The latter, in particular, catapulted them into international fame, featuring iconic tracks such as "Easy Livin'" that became anthems of the era.
1980s: Challenges and Resilience
The 1980s brought a shifting musical landscape, marked by the rise of new wave and the advent of MTV. Uriah Heep faced challenges in adapting to the changing trends but remained steadfast in their commitment to musical craftsmanship. The departure of key members and the arrival of new talents led to a revitalization of the band's sound.
Albums like "Abominog" and "Head First" demonstrated Uriah Heep's ability to navigate the evolving musical terrain. Tracks like "Too Scared to Run" showcased a renewed energy, while the band continued to experiment with their signature sound. Despite not achieving the same commercial success as in the '70s, Uriah Heep maintained a dedicated fan base and earned respect for their persistence.
David Byron (Real-name: David Garrick; 29 January 1947 - 28 February 1985) was an English rock singer best known as the lead vocalist for the progressive rock band Uriah Heep.
Byron was born in Epping, Essex, England, and started his music career in the mid-1960s as the lead singer for several local bands. In 1969, he joined Uriah Heep, which was then known as Spice, and became the band's lead vocalist. With Byron on board, Uriah Heep quickly gained a reputation as one of the leading progressive rock bands of the early 1970s, and released a string of successful albums, including "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" (1970), "Salisbury" (1971), and "Demons and Wizards" (1972).
Byron's distinctive voice and powerful stage presence helped make Uriah Heep one of the most popular and influential hard rock bands of the 1970s. He was known for his soulful, blues-influenced delivery and his ability to convey emotion through his singing. He also wrote some of the band's most memorable lyrics, including those for the songs "Lady in Black" and "The Wizard".
Despite his success with Uriah Heep, Byron struggled with personal issues and alcohol abuse, and eventually left the band in 1976. He continued to perform and record music with several other bands, but he never achieved the same level of success he had with Uriah Heep. He died in 1985 at the age of 38 due to a liver failure caused by his alcohol abuse.
David Byron is remembered as one of the greatest hard rock vocalists of his time and a key figure in the development of the progressive rock genre. His contributions to Uriah Heep and his powerful, soulful voice continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Ken Hensley (Real-name: Kenneth William David Hensley , 1945-2020) was an English musician, singer, songwriter, and producer best known as a former member of the progressive rock band Uriah Heep.
Hensley was born in London, England, and started his music career in the early 1960s as a member of several local bands. In 1969, he joined Uriah Heep and became the band's keyboardist, guitarist, and songwriter. With Hensley on board, Uriah Heep released a string of successful albums, including "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" (1970), "Salisbury" (1971), and "Demons and Wizards" (1972).
Hensley was an important creative force in Uriah Heep, writing many of the band's most popular and enduring songs, such as "Lady in Black", "The Wizard", and "Easy Livin'". He also played keyboards, guitar, and sang backup vocals, and his contributions helped make Uriah Heep one of the most popular and influential hard rock bands of the 1970s.
After leaving Uriah Heep in 1980, Hensley continued to perform and record music as a solo artist and with various other bands. He also worked as a producer and collaborated with several other musicians and bands. Throughout his career, Hensley has been known for his versatility as a musician and his ability to write and perform music in a variety of styles, including rock, blues, soul, and pop.
Ken Hensley is remembered as one of the most talented and influential musicians of the progressive rock era, and his contributions to Uriah Heep and his solo work continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Mick Box (born Michael Frederick Box; 17 December 1947) is an English musician and guitarist best known as a founding member and lead guitarist of the progressive rock band Uriah Heep.
Box was born in London, England, and started his music career in the late 1960s as a member of several local bands. In 1969, he co-founded Uriah Heep and became the band's lead guitarist and one of its main songwriters. With Box on board, Uriah Heep released a string of successful albums, including "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" (1970), "Salisbury" (1971), and "Demons and Wizards" (1972).
Box's distinctive guitar playing, characterized by his fluid, blues-influenced style and his ability to create powerful, memorable riffs and solos, was a major factor in the band's success. He also wrote many of Uriah Heep's most popular and enduring songs, such as "Lady in Black", "The Wizard", and "Easy Livin'".
Despite lineup changes and shifting musical trends, Box has remained with Uriah Heep for over five decades, making him one of the longest-serving members of the band. He continues to perform and record music with Uriah Heep, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential hard rock guitarists of all time.
Mick Box is remembered as a pioneering figure in the progressive rock genre, and his contributions to Uriah Heep and his influential guitar playing continue to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
Paul Newton is a former bassist for the English rock band Uriah Heep. Newton was a member of Uriah Heep during their early years, playing on the first three albums, "Very 'eavy... Very 'umble" (1970), "Salisbury" (1971), and "Look at Yourself" (1971). After leaving the band, he went on to play with other musicians and bands in the rock and blues genres. Little else is known about him.
Keith Baker a drummer who has played with several notable bands and musicians. He is best known for his time as the drummer for the English rock band Uriah Heep.
Baker joined Uriah Heep in 1976 and was a member of the band for several years, appearing on several of their albums including "Innocent Victim" (1977) and "Fallen Angel" (1978). During his time with the band, he helped to solidify their sound and was an important part of their live performances.
