Icon Joy Division Shadowplay
Band History

Late 1976 Ian's memorial Late 1978
Early 1977 Early 1979
Late 1977 Late 1979
Early 1978 Early 1980
Afterwards: Without Ian Curtis

The story of Joy Division is split over two pages. You can start at the beginning, or you can fast forward using the links above. When you have finished, click on the picture of Ian Curtis to return to the index.
Icon Wise words and sympathy tell the story of our history
In writing a story like this it is sometimes hard to distinguish facts from myths and legends, and to reconcile differing accounts. Many of these earlier accounts are based on distant (and possibly faulty) memories, and may sometimes record what the author has been told rather than what actually happened. While I have tried to confine myself to events which are well documented or undisputed, I recognise that a band of the stature of Joy Division is entitled to have a few myths and legends constructed around them!

At least one reader felt that my site has a bias towards Ian Curtis at the expense of the rest of the band. This was certainly not my intention. It is true that you will find very little here about New Order. It is also true that I am a great admirer of Ian, both as as a singer and a lyricist. However, I cannot stress enough that Joy Division was a four-piece band, and it is the blend of four remarkable talents which makes their music such a unique and rewarding experience.

Never Mind the Buzzcocks is an irreverent rock music quiz on BBC television. Its only connection with this story is that Peter Hook appeared in the programme broadcast on January 24th 1997, followed by Tony Wilson on February 18th 2002. It does, however, provide an appropriate title for the opening chapter.

These pages are copyright © Chris Warren 1997 to 2007
You may take a copy for personal use only

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