The Controversy Surrounding Ted Nugent's 'Stranglehold' Songwriting Credits
For many fans of the iconic 1970s hard rock band Ted Nugent, the lead-off track 'Stranglehold' from the album Ted Nugent has been a memorable piece of music. However, the question of who actually wrote the song remains a subject of debate and controversy.
Did Ted Nugent Write 'Stranglehold'?
At the heart of this controversy is the authorship of 'Stranglehold'. According to some sources, including Ted Nugent's own admission, the song was largely written by Ted Nugent. However, others challenge this claim, with members of the band suggesting that the song was a collaborative effort.
The Official Credits and Authorship
Wikipedia states that all songs from the album Ted Nugent are credited solely to Ted Nugent. Additionally, the credits list Derek St. Holmes and Martin Popoff as co-writers, which raises questions about the true authorship of 'Stranglehold'. However, many believe that the lone credit to Nugent was a result of avoiding royalty payments to other band members.
Band Member Derek St. Holmes' Perspective
Derek St. Holmes, a former member of Ted Nugent's band, has argued that the album was co-written by the entire band. He contends that Nugent's claim to sole authorship was a strategic move to avoid paying royalties to other band members, particularly Rob Grange. According to Holmes, Grange was never given a royalty share, which adds to the complexity of the story.
The Role of Rob Grange
Rob Grange, who was never mentioned in the album credits, was an integral part of the band. His exclusion from the credits raises suspicions about the true intentions behind the songwriting process and raises questions about the distribution of royalties and credit.
What Does Ted Nugent Say?
Ted Nugent has admitted to the controversy, stating that Rob Grange, who never received a royalty share, was indeed involved in the creation of 'Stranglehold'. However, Nugent insists on his right to sole authorship, which brings the authenticity of the songwriting process into question.
The Legacy of 'Stranglehold'
Despite the controversy surrounding its authorship, 'Stranglehold' remains a classic track that has stood the test of time. The song's electrifying guitar riffs and powerful vocals have made it a fan favorite, and it continues to be played in rock clubs and at concerts across the globe.
Conclusion
The question of who wrote 'Stranglehold' is a topic that continues to imbue the history of Ted Nugent's music with intrigue and debate. While the official credits suggest sole authorship by Ted Nugent, the involvement of Derek St. Holmes and Rob Grange, as well as the complex royalty issues, complicate the matter. The legacy of 'Stranglehold' stands regardless of these disputes, cementing it as a milestone in hard rock music history.