Art-rock group founded in London, UK, in 1977. Built around the songwriting and performance of singer Ian Dury and guitarist / keyboardist Chas Jankel, the original lineup also included Norman Watt-Roy (bass), John Turnbull (guitar), Davey Payne (saxophones), Micky Gallagher (keyboards), and Charley Charles (drums). Originally active 1977 - 1982, with intermittent touring in 1987, 1990-1991, and 1994-1995. Dury was diagnosed with cancer in March 1996, and the group reformed later that year, playing their final show on 6 February 2000. Dury died on 27 March 2000. The group reformed as The Blockheads for the tribute album Brand New Boots And Panties in 2001, and have continued, intermittingly and with some lineup changes, ever since.