medway

The Wild, Wonderful World of Medway Music

A history of the genre that brought the world The Kinks, The Jam, and a whole lot of hilarious anecdotes.

Medway music, hailing from the towns of Chatham, Gillingham, and Rochester in Kent, England, is a distinct and vibrant subgenre of British rock and roll that emerged in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

The Birth of a Scene

The scene was born from a confluence of factors, including the emergence of rock and roll, the proximity of London, and the creative energy of a group of talented young musicians. Bands like The Kinks, The Jam, and The Pretty Things became the scene’s flagship acts, pioneering a raw, energetic sound that blended elements of rock, blues, and R&B.

The Kinks: The Brothers Davies and their “Lola”

The Kinks, formed in 1964 by the Davies brothers, Ray and Dave, were the most commercially successful band from the Medway scene. Their music was characterized by sharp, witty lyrics, catchy melodies, and a driving rhythm section. The Kinks’ most famous song, “Lola,” was initially banned by some radio stations due to its controversial lyrics about a transgender woman.

The Jam: The Power of Three

The Jam, formed in 1972, brought a punk-inspired energy to the Medway scene. The band, featuring Paul Weller, Bruce Foxton, and Rick Buckler, became known for their catchy melodies, sharp lyrics, and energetic live performances.

Funny Facts:

• The Kinks’ Ray Davies once famously claimed that he was a “vegetarian” because he didn’t eat meat, but did eat “the occasional chicken”.
• The Jam’s Paul Weller was initially a member of a band called “The Gifted” – their name was a touch self-assured, to say the least.
• A hilarious incident involving a rogue banana during a Kinks gig resulted in the band’s roadie being pelted with fruit by the audience.
• The Pretty Things are known for their iconic performance at the 1966 “The Marquee Club” which became the subject of a legendary tale that involved a very drunk Brian Jones, and a fight with a particularly enthusiastic fan.

Medway’s Legacy

The Medway music scene continues to influence musicians today, with its raw energy, catchy melodies, and rebellious spirit. It has also spawned a thriving local music scene, with bands drawing inspiration from the scene’s pioneers.

Medway music is a testament to the power of creativity, and the enduring spirit of rock and roll. It reminds us that even in the most unlikely of places, musical magic can be found.