Nelly’s Heroes only formed in April 2004 but are quickly making an impression in South East London. Comprised of Ben “The Chelt” Chelton (23), Ricky ‘Ironman’ Butterworth (20), Simon ‘Sy’ Parr (37), Stuart ‘Stuie D’ D’amiral (21) and Matt ‘Ginge’ Scott. Their wide range of covers, which spans the early 70’s to the 21st Century, is reflected in their own personal influences.

Welling-based guitarist Ben enjoys the Smashing Pumpkins, David Bowie and Nirvana, whilst Bexley-based drummer Ricky is influenced by Tool, Slipknot and Korn. Guitarist Sy, based in Blackfen is a fan of Black Sabbath, Kiss, Alice Cooper and 70’s punk. Bassist Matt is influencend by the Damned, the
Ramones and Motorhead. Sidcup-based vocalist Stuie D has the most bizarre range of influences, which touch base with Blur, Queen and Cindy Lauper.

When you see these influences, it is easy to see how they can cover classics such as ‘Teenage Kicks’, and before it has even finished be halfway through ‘Gay Bar’. The bands they list in their growing set list include T.Rex, Ash, Sex Pistols, Stereophonics, Rolling Stones, Cream, Steppenwolf, Led Zepplin, Blur and Queen. When these bands meet the punk/metal style of Nelly’s Heroes and the one-liners are flowing between songs such as ‘We’ve been Nelly’s Heroes, you’ve been very privileged’, there is only one outcome - the best night of your life. Then they play the music.