The Exploited
The Exploited: A Punk Rock Legacy Marked by Controversy and Musical Firepower
The Exploited, a punk rock band formed in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1980, has left an indelible mark on the music scene through their incendiary lyrics, aggressive sound, and unwavering commitment to their beliefs. Led by the charismatic and enigmatic Wattie Buchan, The Exploited have courted controversy and challenged societal norms throughout their existence.
Formation and Early Years
The Exploited emerged amidst the burgeoning punk movement in Scotland. Wattie Buchan, a former member of the band The System, joined forces with Big John Duncan (guitar), Gary McCrory (bass), and Dru Stix (drums) to form The Exploited. Their early sound was characterized by raw aggression, blistering guitars, and lyrics that openly condemned authority and social injustice.
Rise to Fame and Controversies
The Exploited's 1981 debut album, "Punks Not Dead," became an instant classic within the punk subculture. The album's title track, a scathing critique of the punk rock establishment, became an anthem for disaffected youth worldwide. However, the band's controversial lyrics and performances also drew the attention of censors and critics.
In particular, the song "Porno Slut" sparked outrage among conservative groups, who deemed its lyrics about female sexual empowerment as offensive and misogynistic. The band faced legal challenges and accusations of inciting violence against women. Undeterred, The Exploited stood by their artistic vision, arguing that their music was a reflection of the realities of life for many marginalized people.
Musical Evolution
Despite the controversies surrounding them, The Exploited continued to release a steady stream of albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Their musical style evolved over the years, incorporating elements of hardcore punk, thrash metal, and even traditional Scottish folk music. Albums such as "Death Before Dishonor" (1987), "The Massacre" (1989), and "Beat the Bastards" (1996) showcased the band's versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical trends.
Challenges and Setbacks
The Exploited's career was not without its challenges. The band faced numerous lineup changes, including the departure of key members such as Big John Duncan and Dru Stix. They also struggled with substance abuse and personal issues, which occasionally derailed their progress. However, Wattie Buchan remained a constant presence, guiding the band through its ups and downs.
Discography
The Exploited's discography includes 10 studio albums, 5 live albums, and numerous singles and compilation releases. Some of their most notable albums include:
* Punks Not Dead (1981)
* Death Before Dishonor (1987)
* The Massacre (1989)
* Beat the Bastards (1996)
* Fuck the System (2003)
Members
The current lineup of The Exploited includes:
* Wattie Buchan - Vocals
* Stevie Ross - Guitar
* Irish Rob - Bass
* Willie Buchan - Drums
Legacy
The Exploited has left an enduring legacy as one of the most influential and controversial punk rock bands of all time. Their music has inspired generations of fans and influenced countless artists within the punk and hardcore communities. Despite the challenges they have faced, The Exploited remain a testament to the power of artistic expression and the resilience of the human spirit.
The Exploited, a punk rock band formed in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1980, has left an indelible mark on the music scene through their incendiary lyrics, aggressive sound, and unwavering commitment to their beliefs. Led by the charismatic and enigmatic Wattie Buchan, The Exploited have courted controversy and challenged societal norms throughout their existence.
Formation and Early Years
The Exploited emerged amidst the burgeoning punk movement in Scotland. Wattie Buchan, a former member of the band The System, joined forces with Big John Duncan (guitar), Gary McCrory (bass), and Dru Stix (drums) to form The Exploited. Their early sound was characterized by raw aggression, blistering guitars, and lyrics that openly condemned authority and social injustice.
Rise to Fame and Controversies
The Exploited's 1981 debut album, "Punks Not Dead," became an instant classic within the punk subculture. The album's title track, a scathing critique of the punk rock establishment, became an anthem for disaffected youth worldwide. However, the band's controversial lyrics and performances also drew the attention of censors and critics.
In particular, the song "Porno Slut" sparked outrage among conservative groups, who deemed its lyrics about female sexual empowerment as offensive and misogynistic. The band faced legal challenges and accusations of inciting violence against women. Undeterred, The Exploited stood by their artistic vision, arguing that their music was a reflection of the realities of life for many marginalized people.
Musical Evolution
Despite the controversies surrounding them, The Exploited continued to release a steady stream of albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Their musical style evolved over the years, incorporating elements of hardcore punk, thrash metal, and even traditional Scottish folk music. Albums such as "Death Before Dishonor" (1987), "The Massacre" (1989), and "Beat the Bastards" (1996) showcased the band's versatility and ability to adapt to changing musical trends.
Challenges and Setbacks
The Exploited's career was not without its challenges. The band faced numerous lineup changes, including the departure of key members such as Big John Duncan and Dru Stix. They also struggled with substance abuse and personal issues, which occasionally derailed their progress. However, Wattie Buchan remained a constant presence, guiding the band through its ups and downs.
Discography
The Exploited's discography includes 10 studio albums, 5 live albums, and numerous singles and compilation releases. Some of their most notable albums include:
* Punks Not Dead (1981)
* Death Before Dishonor (1987)
* The Massacre (1989)
* Beat the Bastards (1996)
* Fuck the System (2003)
Members
The current lineup of The Exploited includes:
* Wattie Buchan - Vocals
* Stevie Ross - Guitar
* Irish Rob - Bass
* Willie Buchan - Drums
Legacy
The Exploited has left an enduring legacy as one of the most influential and controversial punk rock bands of all time. Their music has inspired generations of fans and influenced countless artists within the punk and hardcore communities. Despite the challenges they have faced, The Exploited remain a testament to the power of artistic expression and the resilience of the human spirit.