Friday, February 8, 2008

Ted Nugent


Ted Nugent was born in Detroit, Michigan on December 13, 1948. He taught himself the basics of guitar playing at the age of 8.

In 1964, his family moved to Chicago. It was here that he joined the band Amboy Dukes. They started out as a garage band, but quickly became a popular attraction in local venues. As time went on, members left the band, and in 1974 he started a new band called Ted Nugent and the Amboy Dukes. They released 2 albums under Frank Zappa's DiscReet Label.

In 1976, he decided to embark on his solo career. He was soon joined by Derek St. Holmes, Rob Grange, and Cliff Davies. They became Ted Nugent and Free For All.

Nugent became known for his stage performances, and bragged that he played more gigs per annum than any other artist. He was famous for his live "ear piercing" guitar work. One of his tour mottos was: "If it's too loud, your too old" It was during this tour that he would come out on stage in a loincloth and a head band, brandishing a bow and arrow.

It was no wonder he soon claimed the nickname "The Motor City Madman" his concerts featured trapeze stunts, guitar wizardry, and of many other antics of the "Madman" His live album, Gonzo, featured many great songs such as Cat Scratch Fever, Motor City Madness, and Baby Please Don't Go.

In 1981, Nugent decided to go on a world wide tour. This time he brought a new backing group. Despite the changes in the band, Nugent held on to the formula that made him so successful in the '70's

In 1989, he teamed up with Tommy Shaw (ex-Styx), Jack Blades (ex-Night Ranger), and Michael Cartellone to form the "Supergroup" Damn Yankees. Together they were a very successful band, selling 5 million albums. The band broke up in 1994.

Nugent resumed his solo career for the first time in seven years. He has done well, releasing several albums, as well as touring extensively.

He has also kept himself busy with his own morning show on WWBR Detroit, and as the creator and host of the Ted Nugent Commando Radio Show in Michigan. He has received numerous commendations from State Police, Sheriff Departments, and US Army and police agencies nationwide. He is the Editor/Publisher of Adventure Outdoors Magazine, the president of United Sportsmen of America, is the founder of the Ted Nugent Kamp for Kids, and the Ted Nugent Bowhunting School, as well as being involved in many other organizations.

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