Judy’s Tiny Head
For Fans Of: Talking Heads, Devo, Oingo Boingo
Judy’s Tiny Head was an indie funk-rock band based in Boston, Massachusetts, best known for their 1985 college radio hit “My Car”. Originally from Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, founding members (Mark) Forrest Hill and James Whitcomb moved to Boston in 1983 after the release of the 1982 album “A Cage Went in Search of a Bird”. There they connected with drummer Casey Jones and Max Rose, providing saxophone and keyboards. 1984’s beat-driven “Little Hats” quickly established them on alternative radio in the region and paved the way for the EP “My Car”. The single charted extensive airplay locally and on college stations nationwide, prompting a music video in late 1985.
Jonathan Mitchell replaced Jones on drums and percussion that year, and the band continued regional performances. This brought the band to the attention of manager Gene Griffin and producer Teddy Riley. Though the relationship did not bear results, it did lead the band to incorporate New Jack Swing, Go-Go, and House music influences to their sound. The band’s personnel later expanded to include vocalist Rosemary St. George, who added further dimension to an outfit well recognized for their sharp instrumental prowess.
With offbeat lyrics imposed over ever-evolving dance beats, the band drew comparisons to INXS, Talking Heads, and The Tubes. JTH shared the stage with artists as diverse as The Violent Femmes, RUN-DMC and Ministry, to Deborah Harry and Stevie B. Judy’s Tiny Head continued performing and recording into 1990 before parting ways.
