Bitch (band)
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| Bitch | |
|---|---|
| Origin | Los Angeles |
| Genre(s) | Heavy metal |
| Years active | 1981–1990 |
| Label(s) | Metal Blade Records |
Bitch were an American heavy metal band, formed in Los Angeles in 1981. They gained notoriety as a result of their live performances which included sadomasochism and bondage themes. They were also the first artists signed to Metal Blade Records[1] and one of the first metal bands to have a female singer.
Contents |
[edit] History
Shortly after the band was formed, they met Brian Slagel of Metal Blade Records, a friend of the guitarist David Carruth[1]. They signed for the label and released a self-financed EP entitled Damnation Alley (1982). During their early days, Bitch played some gigs with other metal groups such as W.A.S.P., Slayer and Armored Saint[2].
The following year, the group released their first full length album, Be My Slave. During the tour of the album, Bitch developed their controversial and elaborate stage shows; these included sadmasochistic elements: clothing with chains and whips, bondage acts with a 'slave' on stage.
Due to contractual problems, the group released their second album four years later: The Bitch is Back (1987). Bitch became a target of the P.M.R.C. and Tipper Gore. Their albums, held in Tipper Gore’s hands, were shown on talk shows and televised congressional hearings[2]. However, Mrs Gore and the P.M.R.C. are thanked in the liner note credits, because the band said the furore gave them some welcome free publicity.[1].
In the same year, Betsy Bitch recorded a cover of the The Tubes song Don't Touch Me There with Joey Vera and Lizzy Borden for Lizzy's mini album Terror Rising. The following year, for commercial reasons, the group decided to change their name to "Betsy".[1] They released a self-titled album in 1988. The sound was more melodic and closer to hard rock.
Subsequently, they produced another EP, A Rose By Any Other Name (1989), which contained songs for a new record but, due to internal disagreements, the group disbanded in 1990. They briefly reunited in 2003 for the Bang Your Head Festival. A live performance of "Live For The Whip" is included on the "Best of Bang Your Head" DVD.
The latest lineup (May 2008) is currently in the studio recording new material to be released later this year.
[edit] Last Line-Up
- Betsy Bitch: vocals
- Robby Settles: drums
- István: guitar
- Jay Dean: guitar
- Steve Gaines: bass
[edit] Past members
- David Carruth: guitar
- Ron Cordy: bass
- John Zell: bass
- Kevyn Redwine: bass
- Richard Zusman: bass (1982)
- Mark Anthony Webb: bass (1982-1983)
- Jett Black: bass
- Billy King: rhythm/lead guitar
[edit] Discography
[edit] Ep
[edit] Studio
- Be My Slave - 1983
- The Bitch is Back - 1987
- Betsy - 1988 (Published under the name "Betsy")
- Be My Slave/Damnation Alley - 1989
