The Wurzels: An Unforgettable Legacy Five Decades After Chart-Topping Success
In an exclusive revelation, the iconic 1970s band The Wurzels, often dubbed 'scrumpy & western' for their unique Somerset sound, appear remarkably transformed yet steadfast in spirit as they mark a stunning comeback. Formed six decades ago, this year they celebrate the 50th anniversary of their No.1 single The Combine Harvester and their No.3 hit I Am A Cider Drinker. Dressed in classic West Country attire and performing with infectious 'Ooh Arr' accents, their music, fueled by cider and scrumpy, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Chart-Topping Triumphs and Royal Encounters
Reflecting on their 1976 chart-topping achievement, lead vocalist Pete Budd, 85, shares with The Mirror, "That was the greatest feeling ever. We partied until 10am the next morning, drinking everything in sight. Someone had to pick me up off the floor and take me home." The band's rise to fame was accompanied by memorable moments, including a rejected cider offer to Princess Anne, who humorously declined due to a sore throat. Their antics extended to Top Of The Pops, where they distributed strong cider to fellow performers like the Bay City Rollers and Demis Roussos, leading to a ban from future appearances.
Meeting music legends such as Paul McCartney, who joined them for drinks, and performing at three royal shows, including events at Windsor and Buckingham Palace, highlight their widespread appeal. Despite their playful image, The Wurzels maintained a spotless reputation, avoiding scandals with female fans as advised by their manager to keep the 'Wurzel image squeaky clean.'
Personal Journeys and Enduring Passion
Pete Budd's musical journey began against his father's wishes, with initial disapproval turning to pride after the band's No.1 success. He joined The Wurzels in 1972, stepping into the lead singer role following the tragic death of founder Adge Cutler in a car crash. Pete recalls, "Adge was our leader and a really nice fella. It's sad he died two years before our hits, but we still perform his songs like Drink Up Thy Cyder."
The band's influence spans generations, with famous fans including comedian Bill Bailey, who uses The Combine Harvester as his doorbell tune, and The Stranglers, who play Wurzels songs at soundchecks. Their ability to 'Wurzelise' tracks, such as covering Gina G's Eurovision hit and adapting Kaiser Chiefs' Ruby, showcases their creative adaptability, though they faced refusal from The Rolling Stones to parody (I Can't Get No) Satisfaction.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite personal hardships, including the loss of his wife Pauline to dementia in 2022 and his daughter Yona to diabetes, Pete finds solace in family and music. Living in the Chew Valley with his elder daughter Julie, he enjoys recognition without intrusion, often visiting local pubs where their records play on jukeboxes. With 22 gigs scheduled for the year, The Wurzels, including original members Tommy Banner, 86, on accordion, continue to tour and record, driven by 'sheer enjoyment.'
Pete reflects, "I've enjoyed every minute of it. We've proved we're not a joke—you don't last this long on luck alone. It would be nice to have another hit song, and who knows what's round the corner." Their music, appealing to ages 9 to 90, remains a testament to resilience and joy in the face of time's passage.
