One of the earliest pioneers of electronic music, Hawkwind started in the late 60's as a psychedelic/space rock band, and went on to become one of the hardest heavy metal acts of the 70's. Their trademark sound was formed from washes of distorted noise produced by "sonic generators" coupled with intricate bass rhythms, and jagged guitar riffs. The band maintained a successful following through the period of punk and new wave, and were cited by Joy Division bassist Peter Hook as an early influence. Their album covers and lyrics invoke fantastic sci-fi and sword & sorcery imagery heavily inspired by writer Michael Moorcock, who collaborated with the band on several occasions. Hawkwind also featured Lemmy Kilmister, who went on to start Motörhead, which was originally the name of a Hawkwind song.
Hawkwind's long and muddled history is marked by a revolving door of line-up changes. Co-founder and 'captain of the ship', Dave Brock, is the single constant. Nik Turner (at varying times also of Inner City Unit), Robert Calvert, Huw Lloyd-Langton, Simon House, Ginger Baker and Alan Davey are or have been other prominent band members.
Hawkwind continue to tour, with the current line-up consisting of Dave Brock, Mr Dibs, Jason Stuart and Richard Chadwick.