A British guitarist and songwriter, best known for his work with the rock band Slade, penning hits like "Cum On Feel the Noize" and "Skweeze Me, Pleeze Me".
Dave Hill, born on April 4, 1946, is the iconic lead guitarist and backing vocalist of the English rock band Slade, known for his outrageous stage clothes and hairstyle. With a career spanning over five decades, Hill is the sole continuous member of the band, having played a pivotal role in shaping Slade's unique sound and style.
Hill was born in Flete House, Holbeton, Devon, and moved to Penn, Wolverhampton, with his parents at the age of one. He developed an interest in music at an early age and bought his first guitar from a mail-order catalogue. He received guitar lessons from a science teacher at his school and formed a band called The Young Ones with his school friends.
After leaving school, Hill worked in an office for Tarmac Limited for over two years before pursuing a career in music. He played with drummer Don Powell in a band called The Vendors, which later changed its name to The N Betweens. The pair then met bass player Jimmy Lea and singer Noddy Holder, marking the birth of Slade.
Hill's guitar work and backing vocals were instrumental in shaping Slade's sound, which blended elements of glam rock, hard rock, and pop. Despite being left-handed, Hill played guitar right-handed, and his most famous guitar was the John Birch Superyob, built in 1973.
The band's music was characterized by Holder's powerful vocals, Hill's guitar riffs, and the band's energetic live performances. Slade's biggest hits include "Cum On Feel the Noize," "Skweeze Me, Pleeze Me," and "Merry Xmas Everybody," which remain staples of British rock music.
Hill's outrageous stage clothes and hairstyle were a hallmark of Slade's live performances. His costumes, which included a famous "Metal Nun" suit, were often flamboyant and elaborate, earning him the reputation as one of the most charismatic rock performers of the 1970s.
Hill's hairstyle, which was often described as a "demented tonsure with a great scooping fringe," became an iconic part of his stage persona. His antics and costumes often caused friction with the more serious Jimmy Lea, but Hill's response – "You write 'em, Jim, I'll sell 'em" – summed up his philosophy on the importance of showmanship in rock music.
Slade's music and Hill's performances have had a lasting impact on British rock music. The band's influence can be seen in later bands such as Oasis, Kasabian, and The Darkness, who have all cited Slade as an inspiration.
Hill's legacy extends beyond his music, with his flamboyant style and showmanship influencing generations of rock performers. His continued involvement with Slade, even after the band's original lineup disbanded, is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his fans.
86 Years Old
A legendary golfer and broadcaster, renowned for his record 18 major championships and iconic swing, still widely revered in the golf world today.
90 Years Old
A legendary golfer and charismatic sportscaster, known for winning numerous championships, including nine major titles, and entertaining audiences with his commentary and wit.
96 Years Old
A legendary golfer and entrepreneur who dominated the sport in the 1950s and 1960s, and later built a business empire around his iconic brand.
59 Years Old
A British Labour Party politician who served as Deputy Leader and led the party's anti-Brexit efforts, known for his strong stance against leaving the EU.
86 Years Old
A charismatic golfer and broadcaster, known for his witty commentary and six major championships, including two U.S. Open titles.
Born in 1912
A legendary golfer with a record 82 PGA Tour wins, known for his smooth swing and charismatic personality on the course and in the broadcast booth.
Born in 1912
Legendary golfer and sportscaster who dominated the sport with 68 professional wins, including nine major championships, and inspired generations with his remarkable comeback from a near-fatal car accident.
Born in 1912
A legendary golfer and broadcaster, known for winning 52 PGA tournaments, including 11 in a row, and providing iconic commentary for CBS Sports.
