Bad Manners are one of the most recognisable names to emerge from the UK two-tone and ska movement. Formed in 1976 in North London by a group of school friends, the band quickly became synonymous with energetic live shows and the larger-than-life presence of frontman Buster Bloodvessel. With their infectious rhythms and playful spirit, Bad Manners helped define the mod and ska revival era.
Between 1980 and 1983, the band spent an impressive 111 weeks in the UK Singles Chart, delivering a string of memorable hits. Tracks such as 'Special Brew', 'Lip Up Fatty', 'Can Can', 'Walking In The Sunshine' and 'My Girl Lollipop' became staples of the era. Their frequent appearances on Top of the Pops and inclusion in the influential live film documentary 'Dance Craze' in 1981 cemented their reputation as one of the leading lights of the two-tone scene.
Bad Manners continued to evolve through the 1980s, signing to CBS Records in 1986 and expanding their global presence. The band toured extensively throughout Britain, Europe, the Far East, Australasia and the USA, building a loyal international following. During this period, Buster Bloodvessel also ventured into film and television, appearing in productions such as 'Sammy and Rosie Get Laid' and 'Out Of Order', as well as various television commercials.
Now into their fourth decade of creating mod mayhem, Bad Manners celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2026 and remain a high-energy live act. With a line-up that has included Buster Bloodvessel, Louis Cook, David Farren, Martin Stewart, Brian Tuitt, Gus Herman, Chris Kane and Andrew Marson, the band continue to deliver upbeat ska rhythms and crowd-pleasing performances that keep audiences dancing around the world.
