The Blow Monkeys

The Blow Monkeys

The Blow Monkeys are a British pop and rock group from London, active since 1981. They are fronted by lead singer and songwriter Dr. Robert, whose real name is Bruce Robert Howard. The line-up includes Tony Kiley and Neville Henry.

Career and style

The band becomes known for its 1980s work, especially the international pop hit “Digging Your Scene”. Their sound is associated with pop, blue-eyed soul, new wave and art rock, and their image draws comparison with contemporaries such as The Style Council and Roxy Music. Their dress sense and androgynous look are part of their public identity.

Early releases and breakthrough

The group forms in 1981 after Howard returns to the UK from Australia, where he spends his teenage years. Its name comes from an offensive Australian term referring to Aboriginal people playing the didgeridoo. The debut album, Limping for a Generation, appears in 1984 and addresses subjects such as the Cold War and AIDS, which is unusual for a pop act of the time. Their first major hit follows with “Digging Your Scene” from the second album, Animal Magic. The single reaches number 14 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and number 7 on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, while the album reaches number 35 on the Billboard 200.

Further success, split and return

In January 1987, the band releases She Was Only a Grocer’s Daughter. Its biggest single, “It Doesn’t Have to Be This Way”, reaches the UK top 10. The group breaks up in late 1990, after which Dr. Robert pursues a solo career. The Blow Monkeys reform in 2007 and continue to tour intermittently.