999

999 are an English punk rock band from London, formed in 1976. The group is associated with punk, punk rock and new wave, and remains active.

Formation and early line-up

The band is founded by singer and guitarist Nick Cash. The original line-up includes Guy Days on vocals and guitar, Jon Watson on bass, and Pablo LaBritain on drums. After LaBritain is injured in 1978, Ed Case briefly plays drums.

Career and releases

999 build a following on the London punk circuit and through regular gigs in venues around Southall in west London. Their first single, “I’m Alive”, is released in 1977 on the band’s own label. They then reach the UK singles chart five times, doing so on United Artists.

Line-up changes and later activity

Jon Watson is later replaced by Danny Palmer, who is in the band from 1986 to 1991, and then by former Lurkers member Arturo Bassick, who joins in 1991 and remains part of the line-up. The band disbands in the mid-1980s but reforms soon after, then continues to release albums and tour.

Style

Unlike the Ruts, 999 do not take on reggae influence and keep a punk sound throughout their career.