Skrewdriver: The Rise and Legacy of the Pioneers of Patriotic Rock

The History of Skrewdriver

Skrewdriver was a British oi! band that played a significant role in the development of patriotic rock in the early 1980s. The band was founded in 1976 by Ian Stuart Donaldson and initially started as an apolitical oi! band.

The Beginnings

Ian Stuart Donaldson founded Skrewdriver in 1976 in Blackpool, England. The band’s early focus was on issues such as unemployment, poverty, and social injustice. In 1977, Skrewdriver released their debut album, „All Skrewed Up,“ which was a commercial success and helped them gain a growing fan base.

The Turn to Patriotic Rock

In the late 1970s, Ian Stuart Donaldson turned to nationalism, likely influenced by his experiences with the British skinhead scene, which was increasingly embracing patriotic influences at the time. This shift in ideology marked a significant turning point for Skrewdriver.

In 1982, Skrewdriver released the EP „Back with a Bang!“ This two-track 7″ record marked the start of a new era for the band. „Back with a Bang!“ was a success and brought Skrewdriver international fame, establishing them as one of the most well-known and influential right-wing rock bands.

The Collaboration with Rock-O-Rama

In the mid-1980s, Skrewdriver released several successful albums and collaborated with the German label Rock-O-Rama. At the time, Rock-O-Rama was the leading label for punk rock, oi, and patriotic rock in Germany. They also released albums by bands such as Böhse Onkelz, Endstufe, and OHL.

The collaboration between Skrewdriver and Rock-O-Rama played a significant role in the spread of patriotic rock in Germany. It helped popularize the genre and introduced it to a wider audience.

The Dissolution

Skrewdriver disbanded in 1993 following the accidental death of Ian Stuart Donaldson in a car accident. His untimely passing marked the end of an era for the band and left a void in the right-wing rock scene.

The Impact of Skrewdriver

Skrewdriver was one of the most influential bands in the history of patriotic rock. Their music and ideology played a pivotal role in the spread of nationalistic rock in both the United Kingdom and Germany.

Skrewdriver inspired a whole generation of right-wing rock bands and helped make patriotic rock a major force in the national music scene. Their legacy continues to influence and shape the genre to this day.