A Musical Journey through the Lens of Judd Nelson with DJ Aviva

Picture this – the ’80s, the time of big hair, shoulder pads, and some of the most iconic music of the 20th century. And in the midst of it all, there’s John Bender, the character that launched Judd Nelson to stardom in the quintessential ‘Brat Pack’ film, The Breakfast Club. Who could forget that rebellious spirit, clad in black, bellowing Simple Minds’ “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”?

Now, imagine Judd Nelson, a man who has spent his life in the arts, curating a playlist. Yes, you heard that right. Our very own DJ Aviva, longtime friend of Nelson, has persuaded him to give us a taste of the soundtrack that has underscored his life. On Tuesday, from 2 – 4pm, prepare to journey into the musical world of Judd Nelson, through the eyes of his most iconic character, John Bender.

As you know, Judd Nelson’s career started with a bang with The Breakfast Club and St. Elmo’s Fire, where he defined the ‘rebel’ archetype for a generation. Nelson continued to find success in television, notably in ‘Suddenly Susan’, and more recently, in the popular series ‘Empire’. His diverse body of work has earned him a place among Hollywood’s enduring talents, a testament to his remarkable adaptability and unyielding passion for the craft.

Off-screen, Judd has always been a music aficionado, with a broad and eclectic taste, ranging from the heavy guitar riffs of classic rock from punk to ska.

With his rugged charm and penchant for rebellion, it’s not surprising that Judd Nelson found inspiration in punk rock. In a recent interview with The Guardian, Nelson opened up about how his musical taste influenced his portrayal of John Bender.

“The Sex Pistols,” he said, “I liked the Ramones. They led me to the Sex Pistols. I liked the sound of their music before I really knew they were English. Then the Sex Pistols led me to the Rolling Stones.”

Interestingly, Nelson also revealed that the raw energy of the Sex Pistols was an integral part of his Breakfast Club audition experience. He recounted, “When I auditioned for The Breakfast Club, I first had to audition in New York. I was called to a second casting in Los Angeles. I remember I was listening to ‘Holidays in the Sun’ by the Sex Pistols on my Walkman.”

As he sat there, punk music blasting from his headphones-turned-impromptu speakers, Nelson was the embodiment of the rebellious spirit that defined Bender. It seems fitting, then, that this connection continues today, with ‘Bender’s Playlist’ being brought to you by Denmark Street Radio – a station located on the street where the likes of the Rolling Stones and the Sex Pistols have all made their mark.

“I don’t know why exactly, it just seemed to fit the bill,” Nelson said about his choice of audition soundtrack. That punk energy, that refusal to conform, has permeated Nelson’s career, just as it did Bender’s character. It’s a thread that has been woven through his life, from those auditions to today’s playlist.

Now, with ‘Bender’s Playlist’, we get an intimate insight into this journey. We don’t want to give too much away, but expect an eclectic mix, with choices as diverse and unpredictable as Nelson himself. From the anthems of his youth to the hidden gems he’s discovered along the way, it promises to be a treat for the ears and the soul.

Tune into Twitch & Vinyl w/DJ Aviva on Tuesday, between 2-4pm, repeating – Saturday 22 of July 12-2pm to delve into the soundscape of Judd Nelson. It’s an event you don’t want to miss, a chance to understand the man through the music he cherishes. So mark your calendars and prepare for a melodious journey like no other. Or listen below!

As Bender would say, “Screws fall out all the time, the world’s an imperfect place.” But when it comes to ‘Bender’s Playlist’, we expect nothing short of perfection.

Find DJ Aviva at www.twitch.tv/DJAviva.