Bob Geldof Claims Easy Victory Would Have Been His If He Entered the Presidential Race
The Boomtown Rats, led by frontman Bob Geldof and founding member Pete Briquette, returned to their roots to celebrate a significant milestone. On Thursday, they commemorated the 50th anniversary of their first performance at what is now Technological University of Dublin (TU Dublin) on Halloween night in 1975. The duo unveiled a plaque outside the Bolton Street campus, marking the memorable occasion.
Geldof on His Political Aspirations
During the ceremony, Geldof expressed his belief that he could have easily won a presidential election if he had garnered enough support from political parties. He described the Boomtown Rats as the “soundtrack to a generation” that opposed institutional abuse and governmental corruption. Geldof stated, “We’re just not going to have a corrupt government. We don’t want murder in the North. We don’t want the church abusing our children.”
Reflections on Music and Influence
Geldof attributed his inspiration for the song “Rat Trap” to his challenging experiences working in an abattoir in Ballsbridge. He emphasized that the Boomtown Rats were a reflection of societal rejection during a tumultuous time in Ireland. “It was a generational rejection. We just happened to be the soundtrack for that,” he remarked, showcasing his pride in the band’s legacy.
Historizing the Name Change
Geldof shared the story behind the band’s name change from “The Nightlife Thugs” to “Boomtown Rats.” He revealed that he made this decision just nights before their first gig, inspired by a gang referenced in Woody Guthrie’s autobiography, “Bound for Glory.” Briquette chimed in, showing his immediate approval of the new name.
Personal Struggles and Artistic Attitude
Reflecting on personal hardships prior to forming the band, Geldof spoke candidly about his struggles at the time. He noted that the essence of “rock ‘n’ roll” lies in both attitude and melodies.
Upcoming Events
- The Boomtown Rats will be on a 50th-anniversary tour in the UK until mid-November.
- In March and April, Geldof completed his Australian and New Zealand tour titled “An Evening with Bob Geldof,” featuring storytelling and acoustic performances.
As the Boomtown Rats mark their legacy, their contributions continue to resonate with audiences, reflecting the sentiments of a generation that demanded change.
