Dury, Ian (1942–2000)

English singer, songwriter, and film actor. In 1977 he formed the group Ian Dury and the Blockheads, which was inspired by punk rock and disco (and influenced ska music of the 1980s). Their songs included ‘What a Waste’ (1978), ‘Hit Me With Your Rhythm Stick’ (1979), and ‘Reasons to be Cheerful (Part 3)’ (1979).

In 1985 Dury launched his film career with Number One, and appeared in cameo roles in several films culminating in The Crow: City of Angels (1996). He wrote the musical Apples in 1989. He also worked as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF).