RIP: Tony Wilson - Mega Post

From day one I’ve wanted to honor the ancestor of all bands that I listen to, but I did not want to do them wrong. I have posted a couple of references and quoted some of their lyrics on some posts. Unfortunately, the motivation kicks in now that Hacienda impresario and founder of Factory Records, Tony Wilson, died in England Friday at the age of 57, after more than a year's worth of treatment for kidney cancer.

Immortalized in the 2002 film 24 Hour Party People, a semi-fictional account of his life and career, Wilson's colorful personality, smug wit, and keen appreciation for club music made him a kingpin of the Manchester scene that launched Joy Division, New Order and the Happy Mondays.

An early champion of Joy Division, Wilson gave the band its first big break on his weekly slot, So It Goes, the first music show in England to televise punk and post-punk bands.

Joy Division and New Order drummer Stephen Morris told England's Newsnight Friday, "There would be no Joy Division or New Order without Tony. He really believed in us and he was smart enough to start a label and put our records out.

Looking through videos and reading so much about Joy Division just complicates on what to choose and post. I’ve decided to let videos and music speak for them. Also in tribute to the pioneers, a gathering of sorts should be held to watch 24 Hour Party People, well at least in my place it will… Enjoy!

A tribute video for Joy Division - Ceremony

New Order / Depeche Mode Mix Video

Happy Mondays - Step On

Movie poster for Control. The life of Ian Curtis through the lens of legendary photographer, Anton Corbijn

FactoryRecords.net + NewOrderOnline.com + Happy Mondays + 24 Hour Party People on IMDB + Anton Corbijn (must visit)