10 Essential Budgie Songs That Showcase Their 70s Brilliance

Budgie is a band that may not be on everyone’s playlist today, but back in the 70s, they carved out a sound that was all their own. Despite not being household names, the music they made left its mark, influencing other big rock bands and even the heaviest of metal groups. Now, let’s turn up the volume and shine a spotlight on ten of Budgie’s songs that stand out from their impressive catalog.

Guts

From their very first album simply called “Budgie,” the song “Guts” grabs your attention with its heavy blues vibe. Right from the start, this track sets the stage, telling you what the band is all about. The riff is dark yet chilled out, creating a cool contrast. When you hear the main guitar part, you’ll feel it’s tough and gentle at the same time. The drummer, Ray Phillips, adds his own flair, making the drums dance around the guitar and bass. And when Burke Shelley’s vocals kick in, reaching high notes with what seems like no effort at all, it’s clear why this song is a standout. Back in 1971, producer Rodger Bain, who worked with the legendary Black Sabbath, helped to craft the album’s raw and blues-infused rock sound, a perfect fit for Budgie’s debut.

Homicidal Suicidal

Also on their first album, “Homicidal Suicidal” shows how quickly Budgie could create a heavy, memorable tune. They made their whole album in just three days, which is incredible. This song has several deep, powerful grooves all in one, and you can’t help but wonder how they helped shape heavy metal music. Even though Shelley wasn’t a fan of being labeled as metal, the band’s influence reached far. For example, in the 90s, the band Soundgarden recognized Budgie’s impact by covering this very song.

Hot as a Docker’s Armpit

Burke Shelley, who was a Christian, wasn’t too keen on the typical heavy metal theme of dark and scary stuff. But Budgie’s music still packed a punch with songs like “Hot as a Docker’s Armpit” from their second album, “Squawk.” The title alone might make you smile, but the song means business when it comes to rock. What’s more, you get to hear guitarist Tony Bourge show off some serious solo skills. The rhythm of this song will get stuck with you, and the combined talents of Shelley and Phillips are on full display here.

Breadfan

If you know any Budgie track, it’s probably “Breadfan,” made famous by Metallica, who covered it on their “Garage Inc.” album. From Budgie’s third album, “Never Turn Your Back on a Friend,” this song is tight and clear—a real peak moment for early Budgie. Shelley once said the band was about loud, heavy rock with a gentle name, and “Breadfan” is the perfect example. It’s funny how this tune turned out to be one of Budgie’s most recognized, showing off the contrast they loved to play with.

Parents

Budgie wasn’t all about short, punchy songs; they also knew how to stretch out and get more progressive. “Parents” from the same album as “Breadfan” is a prime example. It’s longer, but every second has something to say. Here we see Bourge’s guitar in the spotlight. He weaves together beautiful melodies that are thoughtful yet feel grounded and real. It’s a tune that shows a different, softer side to Budgie without losing their core rock feel.

Crash Course in Brain Surgery

By their fourth album, “In for the Kill!,” Budgie took over the production themselves. The results are amazing – the album’s sound is just what they wanted. “Crash Course in Brain Surgery,” originally recorded in 1971, was refined here with a sharper edge. Metallica covered this song too, but to appreciate its true brilliance, you need to hear Budgie’s original. Shelley’s impressive performance as both a bassist and singer is undeniably powerful in this track.

Zoom Club

Continuing with “In for the Kill!,” the song “Zoom Club” takes full advantage of its long run time. Budgie uses those ten minutes to mix blues, jazz, and funk into their rock sound. The production quality makes everything feel just right. This period also introduced Pete Boot on drums, whose style was a perfect match for Budgie’s evolving music.

Breaking All the House Rules

When you reach Budgie’s fifth album, “Bandolier,” it’s clear they’ve found their stride. They knew exactly what they wanted their music to sound like and went for it. “Breaking All the House Rules” captures a band that’s fully confident and not afraid to break the mold. It’s this mix of skill and freedom that makes for some great rock music.

Napoleon Bona – Parts 1 & 2

Much of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal owes a nod to songs like “Napoleon Bona – Parts 1 & 2.” The beginning is soft, with gentle guitar, but soon it ramps up into loud, driving rhythms that make you nod and think, “so that’s where that style came from.” Budgie’s lineup change brought in drummer Steve Williams, who fits right in, although some might say the cymbals could have had a bit more sizzle.

If I Were Britannia I’d Waive the Rules

By their sixth studio album, Budgie had not taken over the mainstream rock scene, but they had definitely made their mark. The title track of “If I Were Britannia I’d Waive the Rules” squeezes so much of what Budgie was about into less than an hour—daring rhythms, solid blues riffs, and the added flair of funk. It’s a grand showcase of all things Budgie.