Mott the Hoople
Mott the Hoople were an English rock band formed in Herefordshire. Originally named the Doc Thomas Group, the band changed their name after signing with Island Records in 1969. The band released albums at the beginning of the 1970s but failed to find any success. On the verge of breaking up, the band were encouraged by David Bowie to stay together. Bowie wrote their glam-style signature song "All the Young Dudes" for them, which became their first hit in 1972. Bowie subsequently produced their album of the same name, which added to their success.
Mott the Hoople | |
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Mott the Hoople in 1974 (left to right: Dale Griffin, Ariel Bender, Morgan Fisher (front), Pete Overend Watts, Ian Hunter) | |
| Background information | |
| Also known as | Mott (1974–1976) British Lions (1977–1979) |
| Origin | Hereford, Herefordshire, England |
| Genres | |
| Years active | 1969–1980 (reunions: 2009, 2013, 2018, 2019) |
| Labels | Island, Atlantic, CBS, Columbia |
| Past members | Ian Hunter Ariel Bender Morgan Fisher James Mastro Steve Holley Mark Bosch Paul Page Dennis Dibrizzi Pete Overend Watts Dale "Buffin" Griffin Verden Allen Mick Ronson Ray Majors Nigel Benjamin Steve Hyams Mick Ralphs Mick Bolton Derek John "Blue" Weaver |
Despite membership changes, the band experienced further commercial success with Mott (1973) and The Hoople (1974). Lead singer Ian Hunter departed the band in 1974, after which the band's commercial fortunes began to diminish. They remained together with continuing membership changes until their break-up in 1980. The band have had reunions in 2009, 2013, 2018 and 2019.