Dr Know was previously a jazz fusion guitarist in a band called Mind Power alongside fellow band members H.R. (vocals), his brother Earl Hudson (drums), and Darryl Jennifer (bass). Inspired equally by Bob Marley and the Sex Pistols the band took on a radical change of direction and transformed the U.S. underground punk scene, not least with their obvious musical ability that allowed more complex arrangements than the usual three-chord thrash. They broke up their punk sets with the aforementioned dub and reggae tunes, and were successful in gaining a mixed audience for this reason. Part of their intention was to 'preach the word of unity' and they described themselves as 'a gospel group'. A tour of the UK was planned as support to the Damned in 1979, but after selling most of their equipment to cover the cost of flying, they were denied work permits.
Apart from singles 'Pay To Cum' and 'Big Takeover', the albums 'Rock For Light' and 'Bad Brains' (later released on CD as 'Attitude - the Roir Sessions') document this early period, with following albums taking on a slower, more melodic heavy rock sound. As demonstrated on 'I Against I' (1986), this did not necessarily mean that quality had to suffer, although ironically at the time of it's release, hardcore punk was gaining popularity, partly through it's obvious influence on the burgeoning thrash metal scene.
H.R released reggae-only solo albums on the influential U.S. label SST, and eventually left. For a short-time he was replaced by ex-Faith No More vocalist Chuck Moseley, although this line-up did not prove particularly lasting and another replacement was found for the albums 'Rise' and 'God of Love'. It has been said that they were on the verge of something big for the last few years, but despite Madonna offering them a place on her own Maverick record label. their promise was never truly fulfilled.
Following their final split in 1997, other bands have heaped praise on Bad Brains for showing that black rock music could be articulate and successful. The Beastie Boys have described them as the best hardcore band of all time, and No Doubt covered 'Sailin' On', even inviting Earl Hudson to perform the song live with them.
IF YOU LIKE THESE, YOU'LL LIKE BAD BRAINS: Fugazi, Dead Kennedys, Living Colour, Faith No More, No Doubt, Beastie Boys, Fishbone, 24-7 Spyz, Minor Threat, Public Image Ltd, Janes Addiction, Henry Rollins, Black Flag, Soundgarden, Black Sabbath.