The Bandwagon was unique—not a live venue in the traditional sense, but a "Heavy Rock Disco" run by DJ Neal Kay. Kay built a massive PA system—The Soundhouse—and blasted demo tapes of unsigned bands.
THE SOUNDHOUSE TAPES: In late 1978, Iron Maiden recorded a demo at Spaceward Studios on New Year's Eve (costing just £200). They gave the tape to Neal Kay. He played "Prowler" and it became the #1 requested song. This grassroots buzz led directly to The Soundhouse Tapes EP release, creating momentum that secured their EMI contract. The catalyst for NWOBHM. Building demolished.
NWOBHM catalyst. Demo tape disco.
We're collecting stories from musicians who performed at The Bandwagon (Heavy Metal Soundhouse)