The Konrads – David Bowie’s First Band
The Konrads were the very first band of David Bowie, then still known as David Jones. Active between 1962 and 1964, the group marked Bowie’s earliest steps into live performance, where he played tenor saxophone and sang vocals.
Although musically rooted in early 1960s rock and instrumental covers, The Konrads were crucial in shaping Bowie’s ambition, giving him his first real stage experience and even his first studio recording.
- Active: 1962–1964
- Base: Bromley, Kent, England
- Bowie role: Tenor saxophone, vocals
- Significance: Bowie’s first band and first live performances
Formation and early line-up
The Konrads were formed in early 1962 in the Bromley area by drummer Dave Crook and guitarist Neville Wills. Shortly afterwards, singer George Underwood joined the group and introduced his close friend David Jones, who entered the band in June 1962 as a saxophonist and vocalist.
This initial line-up consisted of:
David Jones – tenor saxophone, vocals
George Underwood – lead vocals
Neville Wills – lead guitar
Dave Crook – drums
First performances
The Konrads performed mainly at local youth clubs, church halls and small dances across Bromley and South East London. Bowie’s first documented live performance took place on 16 June 1962 at Bromley Technical High School.
A report in the Kentish Times later described the group performing at a school fête, where they played guitar, saxophone and drum-based instrumentals in a casual, early rock format.
Line-up changes and expansion
Later in 1962, drummer Dave Hadfield replaced Dave Crook and effectively became the band’s leader. The group expanded with additional members, including:
Dave Hadfield – drums
Neville Wills – lead guitar
Alan Dodds – rhythm guitar
Rocky Shahan – bass guitar
Roger Ferris – vocals
Christine Patton – vocals
Stella Patton – vocals
David Jones (Dave Jay) – saxophone, vocals
During this period, Bowie briefly adopted the stage name “Dave Jay”, inspired by Peter Jay & the Jaywalkers.
First studio recording
Video: I NEVER DREAMED
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Video: I NEVER DREAMED
THE KONRADS ~ I NEVER DREAMED ~ FIRST BOWIE RECORDING
On 30 August 1963, The Konrads entered Decca Studios in London to record their only known track, “I Never Dreamed”. The song was written by David Jones, Roger Ferris and Alan Dodds.
Although the lead vocal was performed by Ferris, Bowie contributed harmonies, marking his first appearance on a studio recording.
Bowie leaves the band
Shortly after the recording session, Bowie left The Konrads. He later explained that he had become frustrated with the band’s musical direction, which leaned toward mainstream pop covers, while he wanted to explore blues and more original material.
His departure marked the beginning of a rapid progression through several bands, ultimately leading to his breakthrough later in the decade.
Historical significance
Video: Baby It's Too Late Now / I'm Over You
The Konrads represent the true starting point of David Bowie’s career. It was within this band that he performed live for the first time, wrote early material and began developing the ambition that would define his future.
Though musically modest, their importance lies in being the foundation upon which Bowie’s entire career was built.
Chronology
1962
1963
🏛️ R.G. Jones Studios
🎧 Event: First Studio Session
🎤 Artist: The Konrads
🗒️ Notes: The Konrads record the demo ‘I Never Dreamed’. Roger Ferris sings lead, with David Jones on harmony vocals. The tape was rediscovered in 2018.
🏛️ Hillsiders Youth Club, W.I. Hall
🎤 Artist: The Konrads
🗒️ Notes: One of the final documented gigs featuring David Jones.