Gun (band) explained

GUN
Landscape:no
Alias:G.U.N.
Origin:Glasgow, Scotland
Genre:Hard rock, heavy metal
Years Active:1987–1997, 2008–present
Label:A&M, Polydor, Cooking Vinyl
Associated Acts:Baby Stafford, El Presidente, Blind Allez, Little Angels, Texas, The Toi,
Current Members:Giuliano "Jools" Gizzi
Dante Gizzi
Paul McManus
Andy Carr
Ruaraidh MacFarlane
Past Members:Mark Rankin
Alan Thornton
Cami Morlotti
Greg Barnes
Derek Brown
Michael McDaid
Tommy Gentry
David Aitken
Scott Shields
Baby Stafford
Jim McDermott
Mark Kerr
Irvin Duguid
Stuart Kerr
Toby Jepson
Gordon McNeil
Johnny McGlynn
Alex Dickson

MTV EMA award winners – GUN, were formed in Scotland by guitarist Giuliano Gizzi. Known for their compelling blend of rock, and a string of hits that have charted across Europe, GUN has consistently been a force in the music industry.  During their career GUN have achieved 4 UK top 20 albums and 8 UK top 40 singles including a cover of Cameo’s Word Up which reached the UK top 10,[1] and charted all over Europe. GUN has toured extensively over the years, most notably with The Rolling Stones on their Steel Wheels & Urban Jungle tours.[2]

The band's latest album, 'Hombres,' reached the UK top 10 and Number 1 in their homeland, Scotland. It also featured prominently in the Samuel L. Jackson film 'Damaged'.[3] Recorded and produced with Simon Bloor (Trevor Horn) and mixed by Daryl Thorpe (Foo Fighters),[4] the album showcases GUN's continued evolution and unparalleled rock prowess. The first single from the album, 'All Fired Up,' sets the tone for an album that Metal Talk hails as "a real celebration and a genuine contender for Album of the Year," receiving a perfect 5-star review.[5]

The current lineup, featuring original members Dante Gizzi (Vocals) and Giuliano Gizzi (Guitar), along with Paul McManus (Drums), Andy Carr (Bass), and Ruaraidh MacFarlane (Guitar).[6]

The band continue to tour through 2024 with their European and UK tours, promising an unforgettable live experience that blends iconic tracks with fresh hits from 'Hombres.'[7]

=History of GUN=

Formation and Early Years

GUN was formed in 1987 in Glasgow, Scotland, initially named Blind Allez and briefly known as Phobia. The founding members were Giuliano Gizzi (guitar), Cami Morlotti (bass), Mark Rankin (vocals), Alan Thornton (drums), and David Aitken (guitar).[8] In 1988, the band signed with A&M Records. The lineup changed soon after with the departure of Thornton, Morlotti, and Aitken, and the addition of Dante Gizzi (bass), Scott Shields (drums), and Baby Stafford (guitar).[9] Jim McDermott contributed drums for their early albums.[10]

Debut Album and Rise to Fame

GUN released their debut album, Taking On the World, in July 1989. The album was produced by Kenny MacDonald, known for his work with Texas, Del Amitri, Love and Money, Bourgie Bourgie, Wet Wet Wet and Slide.[11] It featured a mix of hard rock and melodic elements, which set it apart from other rock albums of that era.[12]

The lead single, "Better Days", charted within the Top 40 of the UK Singles Chart and led to the band's first appearance on "Top Of The Pops."[13] Other notable tracks from the album include "Shame on You" and "Money (Everybody Loves Her)," known for their catchy hooks and robust guitar riffs.

Taking On the World received critical acclaim for its energetic delivery and solid songwriting, with international success in both singles and album charts. The album's success helped GUN secure support slots with major acts like The Rolling Stones, expanding their fan base and gaining valuable exposure early in their career.

Major Tours and Second Album

In late 1989, GUN supported The Rolling Stones on their Steel Wheels/Urban Jungle Tour in Europe. This tour was a significant milestone, allowing GUN to perform in massive stadiums and arenas, including venues like Wembley Stadium in London, the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, and Estadio Vicente Calderón in Madrid. The tour helped increase their visibility and earned them positive reviews and new fans.[14]

Following their extensive touring schedule, GUN recorded their second album, Gallus, with producer Kenny MacDonald. Released in 1992, the album featured the single "Steal Your Fire," which achieved chart success.[15] Sharleen Spiteri and Alan Thornton contributed backing vocals. Gallus showcased the band's growth as musicians and songwriters, further cementing their place in the rock music landscape.[16]

In 1992, GUN supported Def Leppard on the UK dates of their Adrenalize World Tour. Performing to packed crowds in large venues, GUN's high-energy performances and engaging stage presence helped establish their reputation as a formidable live band.[17]

Multi-Platinum with Swagger

Before the release of their third album, Swagger, both Dickson and Shields left the band. Dickson made uncredited appearances on the album before joining Bruce Dickinson's solo band in 1994 and touring with Robbie Williams extensively, leaving Giuliano Gizzi to handle all guitar duties.[18] Mark Kerr, brother of Simple Minds' lead singer Jim Kerr, replaced Shields on drums.

Swagger became GUN's most successful album, driven by their cover of "Word Up!" which became a Top 10 hit in the UK Singles Chart, charted internationally, featured in the movie 'Barb Wire' and won an MTV EMA award for Best Cover Version.[19] The single "Don't Say It's Over" also achieved notable success. GUN would also appear at the first-ever T in the Park festival, showcasing their new album.[20]

In 1996, GUN supported Bon Jovi on their These Days Tour, further solidifying their reputation as a powerful live act. Performing alongside Bon Jovi allowed GUN to reach more rock fans and expand their audience, with tour dates across the UK providing them the opportunity to showcase their music to enthusiastic crowds.[21]

0141 632 6326 and Departure of Mark Rankin

After a three-year break, GUN returned with new drummer Stuart Kerr (formerly of Texas) and keyboard player Irvin Duguid. They rebranded as G.U.N. to distance themselves from the Dunblane shooting incident. Their new album, 0141 632 6326, produced by INXS keyboard player Andrew Farriss, was released but did not match the success of Swagger, peaking at No. 32 in the UK Albums Chart. The band split in 1997, reuniting briefly for gigs in 1998 and 1999.[22]

Dante Gizzi and Break the Silence

After a reunion at T in the Park 2008 as well as a further tour with Rock Radio featuring band alumni Al Thornton, Gordon McNeil, Scott Shields, and guest singer Toby Jepson, in July 2010, GUN announced that Dante Gizzi would move from bass to lead vocals. Derek Brown was confirmed as the new bass player, and Paul McManus joined as the new drummer. GUN's first gigs with the new lineup took place in early 2011 at the ABC2 in Glasgow. In December 2011, the band introduced new guitarist Johnny McGlynn and previewed tracks from their upcoming album. [23]

GUN released their fifth album, Break the Silence, on July 9, 2012. The album marked a new era for the band, featuring a fresh lineup and a rejuvenated sound.[24] They played at the Download Festival the same year, showcasing their new material to a wider audience. Break the Silence received positive reviews and helped reestablish GUN in the rock music scene.[25]

Continued Success, Frantic and Favourite Pleasures

In October 2014, a 25th-anniversary edition of Taking on the World was released, featuring b-sides, live tracks, and other songs. To celebrate, the band played three sold-out nights at King Tut's Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow, performing their albums Taking on the World, Gallus, and Swagger in full.[26] On March 23, 2015, GUN released Frantic and toured the UK, Ireland, and Europe. They released a charity cover of Hot Chocolate's "Every 1's a Winner" with proceeds going to Macmillan Cancer Nurses, and also featured in the soundtrack and trailer for ‘I Tonya’. The Frantic tour concluded with a sold-out show at Glasgow's Barrowlands.[27] [28]

GUN's seventh studio album, Favourite Pleasures, was released on September 15, 2017, and became their first top-20 album since 1994, reaching number 16 on the UK album charts.[29]

In November 2019, to celebrate their 30th anniversary, GUN released a best-of album, R3L0ADED, and embarked on "The Big 3-0 Tour" with FM and The Dan Reed Network, playing Taking on the World in full.[30]

The Calton Songs and New Directions

On May 18, 2022, GUN announced a new album, The Calton Songs, featuring acoustic versions of their songs spanning their career. The album aimed to offer a fresh perspective on their classic tracks, bringing a more intimate and stripped-back sound. Along with the announcement, they released the single "Backstreet Brothers," which highlighted the band's continued evolution and adaptability.[31]

The release of The Calton Songs was accompanied by a series of intimate gigs and acoustic sessions, further showcasing the band’s versatility and connection with their audience. The album was well-received by fans and critics alike, appreciating the new renditions of beloved songs and the band's ability to reinterpret their own work.[32]

Hombres and Renewed Chart Success

GUN's ninth studio album, Hombres, was released on April 12, 2024. The album quickly reached number 10 on the UK charts and secured the Number 1 spot in Scotland. Hombres also achieved significant success on the UK iTunes charts, with three separate versions of the album making it into the top 10, including one reaching Number 1.[33]

The album's success was bolstered by the inclusion of tracks "Pride" and "Lucky Guy" in the Samuel L. Jackson film 'Damaged', leading to a special edition release of Hombres. This period marked a significant resurgence for GUN, as they continued to gain momentum and recognition in the music industry.[34]

=Outside Projects and Collaborations=

Jools Gizzi

Jools Gizzi has been involved in various musical projects outside of GUN. He has collaborated with bands such as Deacon Blue and Texas, and contributed to El Presidente's studio work. In 2006, Gizzi reformed under the name 'Blind Allez' with Alan Thornton and Cami Morlotti, joined by singer Peter Scallan and guitarist Ian Murray.

Dante Gizzi

In 2005, Dante Gizzi resurfaced in the glam rock band El Presidente. He also co-wrote two songs for Rosie and the Goldbug's eponymous 2008 debut album alongside his brother, Giuliano Gizzi.

Paul McManus

Paul McManus, who joined GUN as their drummer in 2010, has been involved with several other bands, including La Paz with Dougie White.

Andy Carr

Andy Carr, the bassist for GUN, also plays for the Glasgow band The Toi.

Ruaraidh Macfarlane

Ruaraidh Macfarlane has participated in various musical projects, including the bands Moy and White.

Alan Thornton

Alan Thornton contributed to El Presidente's debut album, playing drums on nine tracks. He also reunited with Jools Gizzi and Cami Morlotti in 2006 to reform under the name 'Blind Allez', joined by singer Peter Scallan and guitarist Ian Murray.

Scott Shields

Scott Shields contributed to the soundtracks of the films Black Hawk Down and Bend It Like Beckham. He played and toured with Joe Strummer and the Mescaleros until Strummer's death, after which he helped complete Strummer's last album.

Baby Stafford

In 1994, Baby Stafford released an EP titled Paper Love Maker, featuring Scott Shields on drums.[35] He later joined the band Breaker.

Alex Dickson

Since leaving GUN, Alex Dickson has played with artists such as Bruce Dickinson, Emma Bunton, Robbie Williams, and Calvin Harris. He is also a member of the rock supergroup Sack Trick.

Mark Rankin

Mark Rankin currently works for Virgin EMI Records in London, focusing on radio promotion for their artists.

Mark Kerr

Mark Kerr lives and works in Paris, collaborating with various acts including Sly Silver Sly, Regency Buck, Scanners, Jackos One, Mellow, Bob's Symphonic Orchestra, Cathy Burton, and DJ Daniele Tignino. He has occasionally played drums for Simple Minds and Les Rita Mitsouko.

Gordon McNeil

Gordon McNeil writes, produces, and plays drums for the Glasgow pop act GoGoBot, a project he started in 2008.

Discography

Studio albums

YearAlbum details[36] Peak chart positionsCertifications
UK
[37]
GER
[38]
NLD
[39]
NLD
[40]
NZ
[41]
SWE
[42]
ES
[43]
1989Taking on the World
  • Release date: 5 July 1989
  • Label: A&M, Caroline (2014 reissue only)
4426
1992Gallus
  • Release date: 31 March 1992
  • Label: A&M
1441
1994Swagger
  • Release date: 1 July 1994
  • Label: A&M
537141732
  • BPI: Silver
19970141 632 6326
  • Release date: 5 May 1997
  • Label: A&M, Polydor
32
2012Break the Silence
  • Release date: 15 June 2012
  • Label: Ear Music
2015Frantic
  • Release date: 8 March 2015
  • Label: Caroline
50
2017Favourite Pleasures
  • Release date: 15 September 2017
  • Label: Caroline, Cloburn
16
2022The Calton Songs 52
2024Hombres 1054
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released in that territory.

Extended plays

YearAlbum
2009Popkiller[45]
  • Release date: 6 December 2009
  • Label: Townsend
2015East End EP
  • Release date: 1 July 2015
  • Label: Caroline

Compilation albums

YearAlbum
2003The Collection
  • Release date: 3 March 2003
  • Label: Spectrum
2006The River Sessions
  • Release date: 4 April 2006
  • Label: River
2019R3L0ADED: The Best of Gun
  • Release date: 29 November 2019
  • Label: Silver Lining

Singles

YearSinglePeak positionsAlbum
UK
IREFRANLDBEL
(FL)
GERNZUS
Rock

[46]
1989"Better Days"33 7 19Taking on the World
"Money (Everybody Loves Her)"73
"Inside Out"57
1990"Taking on the World"50
"Shame On You"33
1992"Steal Your Fire"24 Gallus
"Higher Ground"48
"Welcome To The Real World"43
1994"Word Up!"8 17 46 14 41 32 39 Swagger
"Don't Say It's Over"19
1995"The Only One"29
"Something Worthwhile"39
"Seems Like I'm Losing You"
1997"Crazy You"21 0141 632 6326
"My Sweet Jane"51
2012"Break the Silence"Break the Silence
2015"Take Me to Church"Non-album single
"Frantic"Frantic
"Labour of Life"
"Every 1's a Winner"
"Hold Your Head Up"
2016"Everybody Knows"East End EP
2017"Favourite Pleasures"Favourite Pleasures
"Silent Lovers"
"The Boy Who Fooled the World"
2018"Take Me Down"
2019"Superstition"R3l0aded
2021"Whiskey And A Prayer"Non-album single
"Better Days 2021"The Calton Songs
2022"Steal Your Fire 2022"
"Backstreet Brothers"
"Word Up 2022"
"Higher Ground 2022"
"Inside Out 2022"
"Coming Home 2022"
2023"All Fired Up"Hombres
2024"Take Me Back Home"
"Boys Don't Cry"
"Lucky Guy"
"Falling"
"You Are What I Need"
"Pride"Hombres Damaged Edition
"—" denotes releases that did not chart or were not released.

External links

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Chart . Official . Official Chart Listing for Word Up . Official Charts (UK) . Official Chart UK . 22 July 2024.
  2. Web site: Wallace . Sean . aberdeen-show-gun-dante-gizzi-rolling-stones . Press and Journal . Press and Journal . 22 July 2024.
  3. Web site: Music . Metal Planet . Metal Planet Music - GUN drop new extended album in conjunction with Samuel L. Jackson movie . Metal Planet Music . MetalPlanetMusic . 22 July 2024.
  4. Web site: Planet rock article announcing for Hombres/All Fired Up . hellorayo.
  5. Web site: Monkhouse . Paul . GUN / HOMBRES MAKES YOU FEEL GLAD TO BE ALIVE . Metal Talk . Metal Talk . 22 July 2024.
  6. Web site: GUN Website About Us Page . GUN Official Website . 29 July 2024.
  7. Web site: GUN Tour Dates . GUN Official Website . 29 July 2024.
  8. Web site: Blind Allez . 2024-07-30 . Helpless Dancer . en.
  9. Web site: David . 2022-12-09 . Gun . 2024-07-30 . Our Glasgow . en-US.
  10. Web site: Jim McDermott British Drum Co. UK . 2024-07-30 . British Drum Co. . en.
  11. Web site: Kenny MacDonald Discogs . Discogs.
  12. Web site: 2014-10-26 . ALBUM REVIEW: GUN 'Taking On The World' . 2024-07-30 . Gigslutz . en-US.
  13. Web site: BBC One - Top of the Pops, 03/08/1989 . 2024-07-30 . BBC . en-GB.
  14. Web site: Wallace . Sean . 2022-10-13 . Ahead of an intimate Aberdeen show Gun singer Dante Gizzi lifts the lid on touring with The Rolling Stones . 2024-07-30 . Press and Journal . en-GB.
  15. Web site: Official UK Charts - GUN - Steal your fire . Official UK Charts . Official UK Charts . 29 July 2024.
  16. Web site: Gun lineup, biography . 2024-07-30 . Last.fm . en.
  17. Web site: 30 Years Ago DEF LEPPARD Rock EARLS COURT ARENA (Photos/Review) . 2024-07-30 . Def Leppard Tour History . en.
  18. Web site: Alex Dickson . Discogs . Alex Dickson Discogs . live . Discogs.
  19. Web site: Official UK Charts - GUN - Swagger . Official UK Charts . Official UK Charts . 29 July 2024.
  20. GUN - Don't Say it's Over - live 1994, T in the Park . 2020-01-23 . Maiden12 . 2024-07-30 . YouTube.
  21. Web site: These Days (1995-1996) . 2024-07-30 . www.bonjovimuseum.com.
  22. Web site: Hextall . Adrian . 2020-01-17 . “We wanted 0141 632 6326 to be our KICK” GUN’s Dante Gizzi on the album that should have taken on the world! . 2024-07-30 . Your Online Magazine for Hard Rock and Heavy Metal . en-US.
  23. Web site: 2012-09-05 . MUSIC: Gun aim to inspire new generation . 2024-07-30 . Glasgow Times . en.
  24. Web site: Ramsay . Simon . Gun - Breaking The Silence (Album Review) - Stereoboard . 2024-07-29 . Stereoboard.com . en.
  25. Web site: DOWNLOAD 2012 . 2024-07-29 . Download Festival . en-GB.
  26. Web site: 2014-10-28 . Glasgow rockers Gun take on the world again . 2024-07-30 . Glasgow Times . en.
  27. Web site: Lingpublished . Dave . 2015-09-01 . Gun pay disco homage to Hot Chocolate . 2024-07-30 . louder . en.
  28. I, TONYA [Official Trailer] – In Theaters Now ]. 2017-11-01 . NEON . 2024-07-30 . YouTube.
  29. Web site: 2017-09-28 . FAVOURITE PLEASURES . 2024-07-30 . Official Charts . en.
  30. Web site: Wales . Gig Pigs . Gig Pigs Wales . 2024-07-29 . Gig Pigs Wales . en-GB.
  31. Web site: Aizlewoodpublished . John . 2022-10-16 . Gun's The Calton Songs: a rum affair indeed . 2024-07-30 . louder . en.
  32. Web site: Aizlewoodpublished . John . 2022-10-16 . Gun's The Calton Songs: a rum affair indeed . 2024-07-29 . louder . en.
  33. Web site: 2024-04-25 . HOMBRES . 2024-07-30 . Official Charts . en.
  34. Web site: 2024-07-12 . The Moshville Times - GUN drop 33-track extended edition of new album in conjunction with Samuel L. Jackson film . 2024-07-30 . The Moshville Times . en-GB.
  35. Web site: Baby Stafford - Discogs . Discogs . 29 July 2024.
  36. Web site: Gun Discography. Discogs. 5 January 2020.
  37. Web site: Official Charts Company: Gun . 5 January 2020 . Official Charts Company.
  38. Web site: Discographie Gun. GfK Entertainment. 5 January 2020.
  39. Web site: Discografie Gun . Hung Medien . dutchcharts.nl . 5 January 2020 . nl.
  40. Web site: Discografie Gun . Hung Medien . dutchcharts.nl . 5 January 2020 . nl.
  41. Web site: Discography Gun. charts.nz (Hung Medien). 5 January 2020.
  42. Web site: Gun – Swedish Charts. swedishcharts.com. 5 January 2020.
  43. Web site: promusicae.es. promusicae.es. 19 July 2024.
  44. United Kingdom. Gun.
  45. Book: Strong , Martin C. . 2000. The Great Rock Discography. 5th. Mojo Books. Edinburgh. 408. 1-84195-017-3.
  46. Web site: Gun – US Mainstream Rock Chart . billboard.com . 27 April 2014.