DeViCom Biografie: Barenaked Ladies

Barenaked Ladies
f. 1990, Canada

Taking their name from a childhood slang term for a naked woman, the Barenaked Ladies are, in fact, five strapping lads from Scarborough, near Toronto, Canada. They were formed in 1988 by songwriters Steven Page (b. 22 June 1970), Scarborough, Ontario, Canada; guitar vocals) and Ed Robertson (b. 25 October 1970, Ontario, Canada; guitar, vocals) while they were students. Brothers Jim Creeggan (b. 12 Feb 1970; bass, keyboards) and Andrew Creeggan (b. 4 Jul 1971; congas) and Tyler Stewart (b. 21 Sep 1967; drums) were soon added to the line-up. The group set off on an intensive series of club dates; word of their prowess soon spread and their first release, a five-song EP, proved a big hit. Their debut album, Gordon, subsequently sold more than half a million copies in their native Canada, outselling acts such as U2 and Michael Jackson. Their melodic pop with its strong harmonies and string-driven acoustics has led to them being unfairly dubbed the Fat Canadian Housemartins. Despite their undeniable debt to the British band, the Barenaked Ladies - who cite the Beach Boys and the Proclaimers among their influences - have carved out a distinctive sound. Songs such as "Be My Yoko Ono" and "If I Had a Million Dollars" are particular crowd favourites. Live, their self-deprecating humour, catchy songs and high energy make for a thoroughly entertaining show. However, with their tubby looks, spectacles and fondness for unflattering baggy shorts, it remains to be seen whether their success at home can be translated into hard sales in the rest of the world.