Johnnie Fingers

Johnnie Fingers is a renowned Irish musician, best known as the founding member and keyboardist of the iconic new wave band The Boomtown Rats, alongside Bob Geldof, Garry Roberts, Pete Briquette, Simon Crowe, and Gerry Cott. With his unique blend of punk rock and new wave music, Fingers has made significant contributions to the Irish music scene, drawing inspiration from artists like David Bowie, Elton John, and Roxy Music. As a member of The Boomtown Rats, Fingers has performed at numerous notable venues, including the Hammersmith Odeon and the Rainbow Theatre, and has shared the stage with influential bands like The Clash, The Sex Pistols, and The Damned.

Early Life and Career

Johnnie Fingers was born on 10 September 1950, in Dublin, Ireland, and began his musical journey at a young age, influenced by the works of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and The Kinks. He attended St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, where he met his future bandmates, including Bob Geldof and Garry Roberts. Fingers' early career was marked by performances at local venues, such as the National Stadium and the Olympia Theatre, alongside emerging artists like Phil Lynott and Thin Lizzy. He was also inspired by the Dublin music scene, which was thriving with bands like Horslips and The Radiators from Space.

The Boomtown Rats

As a founding member of The Boomtown Rats, Fingers played a crucial role in shaping the band's sound, which was characterized by their unique blend of punk rock, new wave music, and reggae. The band's debut single, "Lookin' After No. 1", was released in 1977 and became a hit, followed by other successful singles like "Mary of the 4th Form" and "Rat Trap". The Boomtown Rats gained a significant following in the UK and Ireland, and performed at notable festivals like the Isle of Wight Festival and the Reading and Leeds Festivals. The band's music was also influenced by the works of The Stranglers, The Jam, and The Undertones.

Solo Work and Collaborations

In addition to his work with The Boomtown Rats, Fingers has pursued solo projects and collaborations with other artists, including Gerry Cott and Pete Briquette. He has released several solo albums, showcasing his versatility as a musician and songwriter, and has worked with producers like Chris Thomas and Tony Visconti. Fingers has also performed with other notable musicians, such as Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, and Bono, and has been involved in various charity projects, including the Live Aid concert, organized by Bob Geldof and Midge Ure.

Musical Style and Influences

Johnnie Fingers' musical style is characterized by his eclectic blend of rock music, pop music, and reggae, drawing inspiration from a wide range of artists, including The Specials, The Selecter, and Madness. His keyboard playing is distinctive and has been praised by critics, with influences from Keith Emerson and Rick Wakeman. Fingers' songwriting often incorporates witty, observational lyrics, reminiscent of Ray Davies and Ian Dury. He has also been influenced by the ska and 2 Tone movements, which emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with bands like The Beat and The Bodysnatchers.

Discography

Johnnie Fingers' discography includes several albums with The Boomtown Rats, as well as solo releases and collaborations with other artists. Some notable albums include The Boomtown Rats' debut album, "The Boomtown Rats", released in 1978, and their follow-up album, "A Tonic for the Troops", released in 1978. Fingers has also released solo albums, such as "The Irish Songs", and has contributed to various compilation albums, including "The Best of The Boomtown Rats" and "The Boomtown Rats: Greatest Hits". His music has been released on labels like Ensign Records, Mercury Records, and EMI Records, and has been distributed by companies like Universal Music Group and Sony Music Entertainment. Category:Irish musicians