A founding member and lead guitarist of the 1970s glam metal band Angel, known for his flamboyant stage presence and virtuosic guitar playing. He wrote many of the band's songs and was a key figure in their sound and style.
Punky Meadows, born Edwin Lionel Meadows Jr. on February 6, 1950, is an American guitarist renowned for his flamboyant stage presence and iconic glam rock image as a member of the band Angel between 1975 and 1980.
Meadows grew up in the Barnaby Terrace neighborhood of southeast Washington, D.C., where he was exposed to music from an early age. He attended Draper Elementary and Hart Junior High Schools, where he began playing the guitar.
In 1967, Meadows and three others formed the English Setters, which later changed its name to the Cherry People. The band was signed to a record deal by Heritage Records, releasing one album. After the Cherry People disbanded, Meadows and Mickie Jones formed Daddy Warbux, later known as BUX, which released one album. It was during this time that Meadows met Gregg Giuffria, Barry Brandt, and Frank Dimino, and together they formed Angel.
Angel released six studio albums between 1975 and 1979, and one live album, Live Without a Net, in 1980. Although the band failed to achieve mainstream success in the United States, they gained a significant following in Japan. Angel's glam rock image, personified by Meadows' flamboyant style, was a stark contrast to the more aggressive, heavy metal-oriented Kiss.
Meadows received invitations to join some of the most iconic bands of the time, including Kiss, Aerosmith, and the New York Dolls. However, he declined these offers, choosing to remain with Angel.
Meadows' contributions to the glam rock scene and his unique style have influenced numerous artists. His guitar work and stage presence have been cited as an inspiration by many, and he remains a beloved figure in the world of rock music.
"I always tried to be a bit of a rebel, but I didn't want to be a bad guy. I just wanted to be a little bit different."
Punky Meadows' legacy as a glam rock icon continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike. His impact on the music industry is undeniable, and his influence will be felt for years to come.
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