Ricky Warwick’s wild stories of Lemmy, Bowie, and rock legends
July 11th proved to be a remarkable day for Ricky Warwick, marking not only his 60th birthday but also a spectacular stage for rock history. He took the stage at Iron Maiden’s spectacular Eddfest festival at Knebworth, playing alongside tens of thousands of rock fans. For Warwick, these moments are more than just gigs; they are a testament to a lifelong passion that has fueled a career spanning over four decades.
Few artists seem to carry their fire with such ease. Jokes that a bit of hair dye and beard dye can change everything seem fitting for the County Downborn singer, songwriter, and guitarist, who has retained his passion for music forty-six years after first picking up a guitar. His journey, filled with travels with bands like The Almighty, Circus Diablo, Thin Lizzy, and Black Star Riders, has brought him into orbit with some of the most legendary figures in music.
The road was paved with memorable encounters. During his travels, Warwick met many famous faces, and whenever the conversation turned to football, he was never shy about engaging. Among those he connected with were the Motörhead members, who were massive influences on The Almighty. One of the most vivid memories stems from a chance meeting with Lemmy Kilmister. While backstage at a music conference, the interaction was electric, filled with shared energy and legendary insight, setting the stage for future collaborations.
The Motörhead connection extended beyond a casual meeting. The band’s influence on Warwick was profound, leading to pivotal moments in his career, including the legendary 1916 album tour. The shared history with figures like Lemmy, and the thrill of touring with such titans, solidified Warwick’s place in rock history.
Further connections emerged through the music world. Warwick’s involvement with New Model Army led him to West Berlin in 1987, an experience that exposed him to the sheer power of artistic expression. Years later, this path crossed with the legacy of Def Leppard, leading to an unexpected friendship with Joe Elliott, a figure who remains deeply grounded and down-to-earth.
This kinship extended to many musicians. During a period when David Bowie was rehearsing in Dublin, Warwick experienced a serendipitous meeting with Joe Elliott from Def Leppard, marking an unexpected link between the music scenes of the 70s and 80s. Other connections solidified over time, including interactions with Steve Harris, who shared a mutual appreciation for football and music, and Billy Duffy and Ian Astbury of The Cult, with whom he forged enduring bonds.
The network of friendships continued through the decades. Warwick also connected with Midge Ure, a figure from the Ultravox era, and later found himself sharing a legendary experience with Dave Grohl, who even joined the band for a charity performance, playing tracks like Bomber by Motörhead and Jailbreak by Lizzy. These shared musical adventures highlight a life rich with unforgettable moments and deep connections within the sprawling world of rock and roll.
Today, as Warwick continues to release new solo work, his story remains a vibrant chronicle of music, travel, and the enduring power of shared experiences. It is a journey that proves that the greatest part of rock and roll is the connection between the musicians.
Ricky Warwick’s Fire & Vengeance is currently available via Earache. Warwick is touring the UK and Ireland from November 5 to 26. For dates and tickets, visit the Ricky Warwick website.
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