Chequered Past (1982 - 1985)

In September 1982, Michael formed the band Chequered Past together with Clem Burke, Frank Infante and Nigel Harrison from Blondie and Steve Jones from Sex Pistols. Shortly after, Frank Infante left the band and was replaced by Tony Sales (Iggy Pop, Tin Machine).

Chequered Past did some extensive touring in the US in the following years, and they also did support jobs for bands like Duran Duran, INXS and Little Steven. They released a self-titled album in 1984 which received good reviews, especially in Europe.

Chequered Past split in 1985, but re-formed briefly in 1986 for a one-off performance at a benefit concert, with Paul Cook from Sex Pistols joining them. They also re-formed for a benefit concert in 1992.

Unreleased songs:

• "She's In Another World" (1983)
  Demo song recorded in September 1983, with Steve Jones on guitar, and with members of a band called The Nothings on bass and drums. Written by Michael and Steve Jones.
• "Live Forever" (1984)
  Song performed live on TV.

The album:

• USA: released by EMI in 1984 (LP and Cassette).
  
• UK: released by Heavy Metal America in 1985 (LP and Cassette).
  

Band members:

• Michael Des Barres (vocals)
• Steve Jones (guitar)
• Nigel Harrison (bass)
• Clem Burke (drums)
• Tony 'Fox' Sales (guitar)

Album

1. A World Gone Wild (Des Barres/L. Juber) (4:55)
2. Are You Sure Hank Done It This Way? (W. Jennings)
    (3:43)
3. Let Me Rock (Des Barres/Jones) (3:42)
4. Never In A Million Years (Des Barres/Jones/B. Edmonds)
    (4:00)
5. How Much Is Too Much? (Des Barres/Jones/M. Holden)
    (3:34)
6. Only The Strong (Will Survive) (Des Barres/Jones/
    M. Japp) (3:58)
7. Underworld (Des Barres/Jones/Sales/Harrison) (4:32)
8. No Knife (Des Barres) (3:56)
9. Tonight And Every Night (Des Barres/Jones) (3:58)

Michael Des Barres (vocals)
Steve Jones (guitar)
Clem Burke (drums)
Nigel Harrison (bass)
Tony Sales (guitar)

Lawrence Juber: acoustic guitars
David Lindley: slide guitar on "No Knife"

Produced by Michael James Jackson

7" singles