Remembering The B52s’ Ricky Wilson
A look back at the pioneering guitarist on what would’ve been his 71st birthday.
Note: This quick piece is from 2022, and originally appeared on Medium. It’s a little rough, but seemed like a good (and timely!) one to share today.
For over 4 decades, the B52s have delighted audiences around the world.
With their big hair, costumes, and quirky lyrics covering everything from Rock Lobsters to Lava, the band has kept the party going. The lyrics are fun, but their distinctive sound is down to guitarist Ricky Wilson. With no bassist in the band, Wilson changed the tuning on his guitar to cover both parts.
The resulting sound gave the band a unique sound and permanently changed the music landscape.
The early years:
The band formed in the late 1970s after sharing a large drink. Naming themselves after a distinctive hairstyle, vocalists Cindy Wilson (Ricky’s sister) and Kate Pierson wore wigs to match. Together they formed a sound crossing the surf punk, new wave, and dance genres.
The party was just getting out of bounds, but it wouldn’t last
Wilson falls ill
While recording 1983’s “Whammy” album, Wilson fell ill and was subsequently diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. He kept the news a secret, telling only drummer Keith Strickland. As Pierson noted in later interviews, “He did not want anyone to worry about him, or fuss over him.”
While in the studio recording 1986’s “Bouncing Off the Satellites,” Wilson passed away. He was just 32.
The next wave
The band took some time off, choosing not to tour or support “Bouncing.”
They eventually regrouped, with Strickland taking over guitar duties. The revised lineup recorded 1989’s “Cosmic Thing,” which went on to sell 5 million copies, spawning hits like “Roam,” and “Love Shack.” That momentum kept them in the spotlight for years to come, and they are still touring today.
Wilson might not’ve lived to see the band’s success on the charts, but his creative tuning & odd sounds helped the B52s make their mark as one of the world’s pioneering new wave bands.
Have a favorite song by the band or memory to share? Comment below!
Thanks for being here,
Kevin—
