Boy George

See also Culture Club. The ORGAN (http://www.organart.demon.co.uk/) fanzine produced a Cardiacs anthology of interviews and reviews in 1993. He has also stated "I have never penetrated a woman in my life.". No official Cardiacs histories or biographies have been published. (London newspaper, 1984: "I'm not gay, and I'm not a transvestite.") (at other times he has characterized himself as "bisexual", "very confused", "not confused", and "not really all that keen on sex". Other and related releases. 42. Videos.

He has also recently appeared as a guest on the British comedy-talk show The Kumars at No. Albums. Boy George has also sung "Bow Down Mister" with the Indian songstress Asha Bhosle. Singles and EPs. Radio Stations in Britain and the United States have appeared to have placed an unofficial ban on Boy George's new releases but he remains a true global pop icon and successful DJ. Influences the band have cited include Gong, early Genesis, and Frank Zappa. "I used to think she was an icon but she's more i-sore to me now.". Musical prejudice is the worst thing in the world.".

"I thought she was having a joke," George recalled of the note. Whatever they play. Madonna was reportedly displeased that George had taken the liberty not only of using her song but of changing the lyrics - to "Ginger Rogers, Fred Astaire, that Madonna, dyes her hair.". "There's nothing wrong with any kind of band in the world. In April 2002, Madonna wrote a note to George demanding that he remove a modified version of her 1990 song "Vogue" from his West End musical Taboo. It's chaos, but it's ordered chaos - everything is really. Look out of the window.". In 1998, Boy George began writing a weekly column in The Daily Express and hosted a weekly radio show on the Galaxy Radio Network. "Everything we play is written, right down to the last drumbeat.

Later that year, the band had a Top Ten hit in the UK with "I Just Wanna Be Loved". In 1995 much of the Cardiacs back catalogue was re-released on CD. The following month, the band appeared on Late Night with David Letterman and made an appearance in Britain, their first in 14 years. By the end of 1990, the band had slimmed down to a four piece, using a backing tape for live shows. In July 1998, a reunited Culture Club performed three dates in Monte Carlo and then joined Human League and Howard Jones in a "Big Rewind" tour of the US. The release of Is This The Life in 1988 saw brief chart success and the attention of a wider audience, as the single reached the Indie top ten in the UK. Roy Hay, the band's keyboard and guitar player now says "I didn't want to go there! I wanted to be in a rock group&emdash;not a bloody gay drama.". anything goes - even INCEST." Much of the misunderstanding was perpetuated by Tim himself.

At the time, the other band members denied knowing about their secret affair, despite many of the band's lyrics being aimed at Moss, especially the songs "Do You Really Want To Hurt Me?" and "Karma Chameleon." However, in retrospect, they admit it was more a case of not wanting to accept it. In March 1987 the British tabloid newspaper the Sunday Sport ran a story 'exposing' the supposedly incestuous relationship between Tim and Sarah, mistaking the couple for brother and sister,"In their bizarre world of music. He alleged that Moss had broken off his engagement to be with George, but Moss was never comfortable with the relationship. While the tour gave Cardiacs some overdue publicity, Marillion's fanbase took an aversion to them resulting in the band being bottled on stage. In his book, George also told his side of his secret relationship with Culture Club drummer Jon Moss. In 1984, Cardiacs supported Marillion at the personal request of Marillion’s lead singer Fish. After the verdict, however, he said that he now feels nothing for Brandon, whose "lies" had hurt a number of people. Tim and Sarah got married in July 1983.

During the trial, Boy George had claimed that Kirk Brandon had been the love of his life and that he still loved him. The band's line-up was whittled down throughout 1983 from eight to six (Tim, Jim, Sarah, Bill, Dom, and Tim) the line-up that would remain for the rest of the 1980s. O'Dowd was clearly not malicious in stating that which he knew to be true...the allegations of malice are quite hopeless and should never have been brought.". Early releases followed the punk DIY ethic, and included limited runs of the cassette albums The Obvious Identity, Toy World, and The Seaside. In court, tears filled Boy George's eyes when Justice Brown said, "Mr. Starting off as The Filth or Philip Pilf and the Filth, the band underwent a series of name changes, becoming Cardiac Arrest, then The Obvious Identity, and Alphabet before settling on Cardiacs by the end of 1980. The judge told Brandon that although he felt him to be a decent and talented man, that he felt Brandon had lied about his relationship with George. Since then the band line-up has remained fluid, undergoing numerous line-up changes, with Tim's brother Jim Smith being the only other surviving original member, and many previous members appearing now and again for live performances, or helping out backstage (and vice vera).

He is not prepared, as observers have noted, to "Take It Like a Man.". Cardiacs were formed by Tim Smith in suburban Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, sometime around 1977. He'll try again rather than accepting the judge's decision. Combining the excitement and energy of punk rock with the intricacies and technical cleverness of early British progressive rock, a combination sometimes referred to as pronk, their sound is unique and varied. Even so, he says, he's not through suing. Cardiacs are a British band formed in 1977. Brandon, currently without funds, now owes 200,000 pounds for representing himself in court against Boy George and three publishers: Virgin Records, EMI Virgin Music and Sidgwick and Jackson. Cardiacs and Affectionate Friends (2001) ORG228.

The witnesses said they'd seen the two behaving happily like "a couple", and the trial judge found such testimony to be "overwhelming evidence" that there had been, in fact, such a relationship. Tim Smith's OceanLandWorld (1995) ALPH 020. In this period, Boy George was 19-20 years old. The Sea Nymphs Cassette (1992). George's witnesses testified that Brandon and he had conducted what was called "a brief, passionate and turbulent physical homosexual affair" in the months between 1980-81. Mr and Mrs Smith and Mr Drake Cassette ALPH 003. Justice Douglas Brown found Brandon's testimony unconvincing. Maresnest, live at Salisbury Arts Centre 30 June 1990.

The irate accuser insisted that although the two young men had shared a bed for a time, there had been no erotic activity between them as is said in the book. Seaside Treats (1985). George, taking the witness stand, faced a "malicious falsehood" charge brought against him by Brandon, now married and a father, who denied that he once had a sexual relationship with George. Surbiton Assembly Rooms 1985. It was well known around the late '70s punk scene just how 'close' the pair really were, although Brandon was never comfortable with that side of his sexuality. Greatest Hits ALPH 029. Friends and family who knew both men during that time, admit that Brandon was being ridiculous. Guns (1999) ALPH 027.

In it, George spoke of his relationship with Kirk Brandon, singer with Spear of Destiny, who began a High Court action against George. Sing to God (1995) ALP 022, 023, 024 This LP was released in two parts. Harper Collins published the autobiography of Boy George, Take It Like A Man, in 1995. Sampler (1995) ALPH 019. In August 1994 a British court tossed out a paternity suit filed against Boy George by a California woman. All that Glitters is a Mares Nest ALPH 018. George has been reported by fans who have met him in person to be an avid autograph signer. Heaven Born and Ever Bright (1992)ALPH 017.

During 2003 he presented a weekly show on London's LBC radio for 6 months. Songs for Ships and Irons (1991) ALPH 014. This musical has been a huge success in London's West End. The Seaside reissue ALPH 013. He once again started touring the world as a DJ in the late 1990s and starred in the London musical Taboo. On Land and in the Sea (1989) ALPH 012. Boy George continues to remain a global pop icon and one of the world's most successful music DJ's, despite radio stations around the world (especially US & Britain) giving him little play thus limiting the impact of his new music. Cardiacs Live recorded live at The Paradiso, Amsterdam (1988) ALPH 010.

From that album, he released his version of the Iggy Pop song "Funtime", which coincided with his autobiography Take It Like A Man. A Little Man and a House and the Whole World Window (1988) ALPH 007. He then produced Cheapness And Beauty a few years later. Rude Bootleg (1987) recorded live at the Reading Festival 1986 ALPH 005. In 1992, George saw a resurgence in his career with his cover version of the song "The Crying Game", which was featured on the movie of the same name and was a top twenty hit in the US. Big Ship Mini Album (1987) ALPH 004. Much of Jesus Loves You's material was life-celebrating stuff, including the hit "Bow Down Mister", which was attributed to George's belief in the Hare Krishna movement. The Seaside Cassette (1983) ALPH 001.

In 1989, George formed his own label, named More Protein, and a band named Jesus Loves You, a tribute to the Christianity that helped him overcome his drug problem. Archive Cardiacs Cassette (1983) ALPH 000. Many of his following releases were produced to protest the UK's anti-homosexual bill of Clause 28. Toy World Cassette (1981). At the same time, Culture Club was dissolved, and his solo hit "Everything I Own" became a No.1 hit in the UK. The Obvious Identity Cassette (1980). He finally quit using heroin in 1987, after an ultimatum was given to him by his doctor: either he'd stop using drugs, or he'd die in less than three months. Signs (1999) ALPH 028.

George had recently collapsed on stage at a benefit concert. Odd Even ALPH 026. His brother went on UK national television and blew the whistle on him, in a desperate attempt to get him to leave the world of drugs. Bellyeye (1995) ORGAN011. During this time also, he became a drug addict, and an American friend who was visiting his London mansion was found dead after a night of using heroin. Manhoo (1995) ALPH 025. His sexual lifestyle became the target of much tabloid newspaper speculation, and eventually he stated he was simply gay. Day Is Gone 12" and CD (1991) ALPH 015.

For a long time George denied his homosexuality, then later declared himself to be bisexual. Baby Heart Dirt 7" and 12" (1989) ALPH 011. But with all that success, trouble also loomed. Susannah's Still Alive 7" and 12" (1988) ALPH 009. In 1986, he guest-starred on an episode of The A-Team titled "Cowboy George.". Is This The Life 7" and 12" (1988) ALPH 008. They arrived 12 hours after everyone else, meaning that George was the last to record his vocals and they were absent from the official Band Aid photograph. There's Too Many Irons In The Fire 12" EP (1987) ALPH 006.

The band flew in on Concorde from New York especially for the recording at the SARM studios. Seaside Treats 12" EP (1985) ALPH 002. At the end of 1984, George appeared, orange-haired, on the Band Aid single to benefit Ethiopia's children, performing the second line of the song after Paul Young sang the first. A Bus for a Bus on the Bus 7" (1979) TOR 002. It turned out to be a Boy George lookalike contest winner from Chicago, who was enjoying his award: a trip to Puerto Rico. [The Trudy (http://void.moleseyjugglers.co.uk/tlmb/TheTrudy/TrudyRe-Entry.html)] (Peter Tagg and Ralph Cade - after leaving Cardiacs). Members of the press believed him to be Boy George, causing one of Puerto Rican press largest bloopers ever. Spratley's Japs (Tim).

In 1983, a Boy George look-alike caused a sensation when he arrived at Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The Sound (Mick Pugh and Colvin Myers - after leaving Cardiacs). Along with Diana Princess of Wales he was the most photographed person on the planet. Tim Smith's OceanLandWorld (Tim Smith's solo project). By 1984 Boy George's fame was so widespread and immense that he became a household name in over 25 countries. Shrubbies (Dominic Luckman - after leaving Cardiacs). Part of his unique appeal was attributed to his wit and charisma; he is responsible for one of the 1980s' most famous quotes - I prefer a nice cup of tea to sex - and his distinctive, soulful voice. The Sea Nymphs (Tim, Sarah, Bill).

He became a sort of alternative teen idol, and had the extravagant lifestyle to go with it. Ring (Christian Hayes - prior to joining Cardiacs). George's striking looks inspired many a Boy George look-alike contest around the world, and George's face became the image of Culture Club in many fans' minds. Panixphere (Tim Smith, Jon Poole, and Christian Hayes). The corresponding album, "Colour By Numbers", was a massive seller and spawned a fourth and final single, "It's A Miracle" in early 1984. Mr and Mrs Smith and Mr Drake (Tim Smith, Sarah Smith, and Bill Drake). In 1983, the band had their biggest year, dominating the singles charts with "Church Of The Poison Mind"; "Karma Chameleon" (the biggest selling single of the year, which had six weeks at No.1) and "Victims". Mikrokosmos (Christian Hayes solo project).

This was followed by "Time (Clock Of The Heart)" and the debut album "Kissing To Be Clever". Mice (Dominic Luckman - after leaving Cardiacs). The band's breakthrough hit in the UK was "Do You Really Want To Hurt Me?", which enjoyed wide exposure on the music station, MTV. Levitation (Christian Hayes - after leaving Cardiacs). Shortly after, Adam Ant drummer Jon Moss and guitarist Roy Hay came into the mix, and they changed the name of the band to Culture Club. The Lake of Puppies (Bill Drake - after leaving Cardiacs). Although George and Lwin's act didn't last long, it did introduce George to former DJ Mikey Craig, with whom he created a duo named In Praise Of Lemmings, with Craig playing bass guitar. Dark Star (Christian Hayes - after leaving Cardiacs, and Levitation).

George's androgynous style caught the attention of music executive Malcolm McLaren, who arranged for George to appear as Lieutenant Lush in a theater concert with Annabella Lwin. Catherine in a Cupboard (Bill Drake, Bob Leith, Jim Smith). During the early part of the 1980s, George became a common figure on the London club scene. Ad Nauseum (Jon Poole, and Bob Leith – prior to joining Cardiacs). As a teenager, he began experimenting with cross-dressing in a feminine style, often using long hair and make-up, a fact that did not seem to bother his family. Kavus Torabi (2003-present). George O'Dowd grew up in an Irish Catholic household in South London with four brothers and one sister. Peter Tagg (1979).

George, the son of a builder and his wife, was born in Eltham, London, England. Sarah Smith (ne Cutts) (1980-1990). George Alan O'Dowd (born June 14, 1961), better known as Boy George, is a famous bisexual singer and musician who reached fame with his group Culture Club in the 1980s. Jim Smith aka Patty Pilf (1977-present). ISBN 1903258162. Tim Smith aka Philip Pilf(1977-present). London: Carroll & Brown. Graham Simmonds (left 1983).

George, Boy and Brown, Draganna (2001) Karma Cookbook. Tim Quy (1980-1990). ISBN 1844133907. Michael Pugh aka Peter Boker. London: Century. Bob Leith (1994-present). George, Boy (2005) Straight. Jon Poole (1992-2004).

London: Harpercollins. ISBN 0060173688. Colvin Mayers aka Max Cat. Bright, Spencer and George, Boy (1995) Take It Like a Man: Autobiography of Boy George. Dominic Luckman (1983-1990). Taboo (2004) soundtrack. Marguerite Johnson (left 1983). BoyGeorgeDJ.Com (2003). Christian Hayes aka Bic (1989-1992).

In and Out With Boy George: A DJ Mix (2002). William (Bill) Drake (left 1990). U Can Never B 2 Straight (2002). Mark Cawthra aka Little Bobby Shattocks. A Night Out (2002). Ralph Cade (1979). Galaxy Mix (1999) compilation. Bob Leith - drums, backing vocals.

Everything I Own (1999). Kavus Torabi - guitar, backing vocals. Unrecoupable One Man Bandit (1998). Jim Smith - bass, backing vocals. Cheapness and Beauty (1995). Tim Smith - lead vocals, guitar, keyboards. Devil in Sister (1994).

At Worst: The Best of Boy George and Culture Club (1993) compilation. Spin Dazzle (1992). The Martyr Mantras (1990). High Hat (1989).

Boyfriend (1989). Tense Nervous Headache (1988). Sold (1987).