The Boomtown Rats are an Irish new wave band who became one of the defining acts of the late 1970s and early 1980s, achieving a series of major international hits between 1977 and 1985. Led by charismatic frontman Bob Geldof, the original line-up also featured Garry Roberts, Johnnie Fingers, Pete Briquette, Gerry Cott and Simon Crowe. Known for their energetic performances, sharp songwriting and distinctive new wave sound, the group produced enduring classics including ‘I Don’t Like Mondays’, ‘Rat Trap’, ‘Like Clockwork’ and ‘Someone’s Looking at You’, establishing an incredible musical legacy that continues to resonate with audiences.
Formed in Dublin in 1975, The Boomtown Rats emerged during the rise of punk and new wave before achieving their commercial breakthrough in the late 1970s. ‘Rat Trap’ became the band’s first UK number one, followed by the internationally successful ‘I Don’t Like Mondays’, which also topped the UK chart. After years of successful albums, touring and hit singles, the group broke up in 1986. The Boomtown Rats eventually reformed with original members Geldof, Roberts, Crowe and Briquette in 2013, returning to live performance and embarking on a UK and Ireland tour alongside the release of ‘Back to Boomtown: Classic Rats Hits’.
Outside the band, Bob Geldof became internationally recognised for his humanitarian work. Alongside Midge Ure, he co-wrote ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas?’ and founded the Band Aid project in 1984 to raise money for famine relief in Ethiopia. This was followed by Live Aid in 1985, the landmark fundraising concerts staged simultaneously at Wembley Stadium in London and John F. Kennedy Stadium in Philadelphia. The Boomtown Rats themselves performed at Wembley during Live Aid, placing the band at the heart of one of the most famous musical events of the 20th century.
Since their reunion, The Boomtown Rats have continued to bring their celebrated catalogue to audiences in the UK and internationally, including returning to North America after an absence of approximately 25 years. Collections such as ‘So Modern – The Boomtown Rats Collection’ have brought together number-one smashes with deeper selections from their catalogue, introducing their music to new generations. Combining classic new wave, rock energy and Bob’s unmistakable stage presence, The Boomtown Rats remain an exciting live booking for festivals, concerts and major events.
