Hands Up If you Remember 1997

I was fortunate enough to grow up in the midst of the grunge, indie and dance scenes that dominated the 90s. The Seattle scene with bands such as Alice In Chains, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Nirvana as well as other indie US bands such as Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr, Beck to name a few, influenced more than just ‘Brit Pop’ in the UK. By 1997, all that remained of Nirvana and much of the grunge scene was just a legacy and a massive influence on music. This lead to a bunch of indie artists across the UK creating their own, exciting music and local scenes that are fondly remembered to this day.

Nirvana in early days of Grunge

In the mid 90s in the Bognor and Chichester area, where I grew up, music was dominated by local indie bands and the house scene. Not a weekend went by that wasn’t focussed on having a good time with the backdrop of enthralling music by local bands.

The Rox was a yearly event hosted on Bognor Seafront

Some of the best music was made back in these heady days, from the likes of Nectar International, Air Melon, Porcelain Roach, Mutley and the scene continued into the 2000s with notable bands such as Kill Kenada and Hope of the States who both went on to land record deals.

Tim Smith of Kill Kenada

As we navigate through the year 2024, the music scene in Bognor, Chichester, and the surrounding areas remains a testament to the enduring spirit of creativity and community. Despite the challenges of the past years, an eclectic mix of bands and artists continue to ply their trade, ensuring that the vibrant tapestry of local sounds persists.

The scene is alive with bands such as the creative and inspiring Drone in the Woods, the whimsical charm of Noah’s House Band, the intense energy of Mask of Judas and then technical prowess of Core of Io showcases the brilliant musicianship that the area has to offer.

Core of Io are a metal band from Sussex

The global pandemic left its mark on the world, and the music industry was not spared. Bands and venues faced unprecedented challenges, and now, with the cost of living crisis looming large, the viability of live music has been put to the test. Yet, it is precisely in these trying times that the true value of music shines brightest.

Music has become more than entertainment; it is a beacon of hope, a source of comfort, and a unifying force that brings us together. In Bognor and Chichester, the music plays on, not just as a cultural expression, but as a declaration of resilience and the unyielding power of the human spirit. 🎶