The Motors: The Power Pop and Pub Rock Pioneers
The Motors were a British rock band formed in London in 1977, best known for their energetic fusion of power pop and pub rock. Emerging from the ashes of the pub rock scene, the group achieved notable chart success in the late 1970s with a handful of infectious, guitar-driven singles.
Early Career
The Motors were assembled by former Ducks Deluxe member Nick Garvey and bassist Andy McMaster. The duo recruited guitarist Rob Hendry and drummer Ricky Slaughter, quickly securing a record deal with Virgin Records. Their self-titled debut album, The Motors, was released in 1977, introducing their punchy, melodic sound.
Breakthrough
The band's breakthrough came in 1978 with the single "Airport," a track that perfectly encapsulated their knack for catchy hooks and driving rhythms. The song became a hit, reaching the UK Top 10 and propelling their second album, Approved by The Motors, into the charts. This success cemented their status as a potent force in the late-70s UK rock landscape.
Key Tracks
Airport - This 1978 single was the band's biggest commercial hit, a quintessential power pop anthem with an unforgettable guitar riff and singalong chorus.
Forget About You - Another standout from their 1978 album, this track showcased their more melodic, pub rock-influenced side and also found chart success.
Today - A fan favorite, this song highlighted the band's ability to craft emotionally resonant lyrics within their upbeat, guitar-based framework.
Sensation - This track from their debut album demonstrated the raw energy and direct songwriting that characterized their early pub rock roots.
Despite their initial success, internal tensions led to a lineup change, with Bram Tchaikovsky joining. The band released one more album, 1980's Tenement Steps, which featured a more polished production but failed to recapture their earlier chart momentum. The Motors disbanded shortly after its release, leaving behind a compact but influential catalog of power pop.
Similar artists who shared The Motors' blend of British rock energy and melodic craft include Nick Lowe, who operated in the same pub rock circles. The Records were another power pop act from the same era with a similar focus on jangling guitars and hooks. The rock and roll spirit of Rockpile also aligns closely with The Motors' straightforward, energetic approach.
The music of The Motors, a definitive British rock act, continues to be celebrated for its catchy songwriting and driving energy. Their tracks remain a staple on classic rock and power pop radio stations, as well as various online rock radio streams dedicated to guitar music.
Listeners can discover the enduring power pop and pub rock sound of The Motors on the radio stations featured on our website.
