Adam and the Ants were a London-based rock band active from 1977 to 1982, led by Adam Ant. Initially rooted in punk and known simply as the Ants, the group's early lineup shifted in 1980 when key members departed to form Bow Wow Wow. The band then evolved with guitarist Marco Pirroni and drummer Chris Hughes, adopting a distinctive sound featuring tribal rhythms and new wave influences. This incarnation became a major force in the UK charts, known for energetic performances and memorable music videos that contributed to their popularity during the Second British Invasion in the United States.