The Chords, a South East Londongroup, formed in 1978 when singer/guitarist Billy Hassett and his bassist cousin, Martin Mason, advertised for musicians in theNMEand found guitarist and songwriter, Chris Pope.[1]Original drummer Paul Halpin did not stay long, at least behind his drum kit, and eventually became the group'stour manager.[1]In his place came Brett "Buddy" Ascott, and by March 1979 The Chords were taking the stage.[1]Theygiggedcontinuously over the spring and summer, headlining twomodfestivalsat London'sMarquee Clubandrecordingtheir firstBBC Radio 1sessionfor DJJohn Peelin early July.[1]They also featured, along with some of their fans, on the cover ofTime Outmagazine. Amongst their early supporters werePaul Weller, who saw one of their first concerts, andSham 69'sJimmy Pursey, who signed the group to his JP Productions company.[1]