Bill Drummond
William Ernest Drummond, known as Bill Drummond, was born on April 29, 1953, in Butterworth, South Africa. He spent his early years in Newton Stewart, Scotland, after his family moved back when he was 18 months old. Drummond's diverse career spans music, art, and writing, establishing him as a multifaceted artist and music industry figure.
Drummond's musical journey began in the late 1970s when he co-founded the Zoo Music label with David Balfe, releasing records for influential bands like Echo & The Bunnymen and The Teardrop Explodes. He later managed these bands, further embedding himself in the music scene. In 1987, Drummond formed The Justified Ancients of Mu Mu (JAMs) with artist Jimmy Cauty, releasing controversial music that sampled various sources, leading to legal challenges.
In 1988, under the alias The Timelords, Drummond released the novelty single "Doctorin' the Tardis," which achieved commercial success by reaching No. 1. This success was followed by the formation of the avant-garde pop group The KLF, known for hits like "What Time Is Love?" and "3 a.m. Eternal." The KLF became notorious for their media antics, including the infamous burning of £1 million in 1994 as part of their K Foundation project.
Beyond music, Drummond's artistic endeavors include projects under the Penkiln Burn banner, such as No Music Day and the international choir tour of The 17. He has authored several books on art and music, reflecting his broad creative scope. Despite his significant impact on music and art, Drummond often operated under various pseudonyms, maintaining a level of anonymity throughout his career.
Drummond's work continues to influence and challenge conventional boundaries, making him a unique and enduring figure in the cultural landscape.