A pioneering drummer and producer who has worked with iconic bands like Public Image Ltd, Ministry, and Nine Inch Nails, known for his intense stage presence and innovative production techniques.
Martin Atkins is a renowned English drummer, most famously recognized for his work with influential post-punk and industrial bands such as Public Image Ltd, Ministry, Nine Inch Nails, Pigface, and Killing Joke. With a career spanning over four decades, Atkins has left an indelible mark on the music industry, not only as a musician but also as a consultant, author, and educator.
Born on August 3, 1959, in Coventry, England, Atkins' fascination with music began at a young age. In 1979, he joined John Lydon's post-Sex Pistols band, Public Image Ltd, contributing to the song "Bad Baby" on their album Metal Box. Atkins' first live show with PiL was recorded and released as a live album, Paris au Printemps, and he went on to appear on The John Peel Sessions for the BBC, American Bandstand, and the BBC's live Old Grey Whistle Test.
In 1980, Atkins left Public Image Ltd to focus on his own band, Brian Brain, with Pete Jones, who also played with Public Image Ltd. The band released six singles and one LP, Unexpected Noises, on Secret Records, and continued to release singles and LPs on Atkins' own Plaid Records throughout the 1980s. Brian Brain achieved a minor indie chart hit in 1980 with "They've Got Me in the Bottle" and club hits with singles "Jive Jive" (1981) and "Funky Zoo" (1982).
In the late 1980s, Atkins joined Ministry, with whom he recorded several albums, including The Land of Rape and Honey and The Mind Is a Terrible Thing to Taste. He later became a member of Nine Inch Nails, playing on their Pretty Hate Machine tour. Atkins also collaborated with Killing Joke, contributing to their What's THIS For...! album.
In 1990, Atkins co-founded Pigface, a collective of musicians who explored the boundaries of industrial and post-punk music. The project has released numerous albums, featuring an array of guest artists. Atkins has also worked as a consultant, helping artists navigate the music industry, and has written several books on the subject.
Atkins is the owner and operator of the Museum of Post Punk and Industrial Music in Chicago and serves as an honorary board member of the Chicago-based nonprofit organization Rock For Kids. He is also a fellow of In Place of War, an organization that supports artists in conflict zones. As the music industry studies coordinator at Millikin University in Decatur, IL, Atkins shares his expertise and passion for music with the next generation of musicians and industry professionals.
Martin Atkins' contributions to post-punk and industrial music have been immense. His work with influential bands has shaped the sound of a generation, and his commitment to education and philanthropy has inspired countless musicians and industry professionals. Atkins continues to be an active force in the music world, pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.
68 Years Old
A rebellious punk rock icon, infamous for chaotic live performances and a tumultuous personal life that ended in tragedy. Known for his raw, energetic stage presence and iconic bass playing style.
71 Years Old
Lead singer and guitarist of the influential punk rock band Buzzcocks, known for catchy, witty, and energetic songs that helped shape the UK punk movement.
70 Years Old
The lead singer of the Sex Pistols, a pioneering punk rock band, known for his rebellious attitude and iconic songs like "Anarchy in the U.K." and "God Save the Queen".
70 Years Old
Lead singer and guitarist of the Sex Pistols, a pioneering punk rock band that sparked a musical revolution in the late 1970s
60 Years Old
A guitarist and songwriter who has worked with various artists, including Meat Loaf, and is known for his contributions to several hit albums and singles.
69 Years Old
A founding member of the Sex Pistols, this punk rock icon is known for co-writing some of the band's most iconic songs, including "Anarchy in the U.K." and "God Save the Queen".
80 Years Old
A pioneering figure in the punk rock movement, known for managing the Sex Pistols and creating controversy through music and art.
