The Journey of a Rock Band: From Punk to Stadium Rock

🎸The Cult's music combines elements of gothic, rock, and punk genres.

📝Billy and Ian's vision for The Cult was to create music freely and not be defined by one specific genre.

💿The bands that influenced Billy's music taste growing up include The Doors, Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, and Deep Purple.

📺The Cult initially faced resistance from the press but persevered with their unique sound and vision.

💡Billy considers finding a compatible songwriting partner in Ian to be a key factor in the band's success.

What inspired the name change from The Death Cult to The Cult?

—The band wanted to avoid being pigeonholed as a gothic band and wanted the freedom to explore different styles of music.

What was the music scene like in England in the 80s?

—There was a lot of tribalism, with different subcultures sticking to their own genres. The Cult aimed to break down those barriers.

Did The Cult consider signing to a major record label?

—No, they chose to sign with an independent label to have the freedom to create the music they wanted without corporate pressures.

How did The Cult navigate through changes in the music industry?

—They focused on making music their priority and remained true to their vision, which helped them endure and succeed.

What influenced Billy's music taste growing up?

—Billy's music taste was influenced by classic British rock bands like Free, Bad Company, and Led Zeppelin.

01:56Billy recalls starting his music journey influenced by bands like The Doors, Black Sabbath, Alice Cooper, and Deep Purple.

09:00Billy discusses the challenges and rewards of being in a band, including the initial struggle for recognition and finding a songwriting partner.

11:30The Cult's decision to sign with an independent label allowed them the freedom to create the music they wanted without corporate pressures.

13:50The band's unique blend of gothic, rock, and punk genres set them apart in the music scene of the 80s.

14:30Billy emphasizes the importance of staying true to your vision and making music the priority amidst changes in the industry.