top of page
Hope Web_1.jpg
CiaranSmileyPal.jpg

ABOUT THE STARJETS

Welcome to the official website of Belfast Punk-Pop band The Starjets. Born in the heady days of Punk, The Starjets greatest strength was our live performance. People liked us way back. We're glad they still do.

The Starjets recorded one album, had one hit single; War Stories. Released in 1979, it reappeared during Lockdown 2020, when Green Day's Billie Joe Armstrong recorded a version for an album of his favourite songs, 'No Fun Mondays'. This led to worldwide renewed interest in the band, but sadly, the three members resident in Belfast, refused to take advantage of that interest and good will. They refused to record new material, go on tour or even perform outside of their hometown. 
 
And so it's been left to singer, guitarist Paul Bowen to keep The Starjets name alive by performing Starjets classics alongside new Starjets releases. Since 2020, Paul has had 13 Top Ten Starjets singles on UK and worldwide Independent Radio Charts. Five of these songs reached No 1 on former Radio One presenter Mike Read's Heritage Chart: www.heritagechart.co.uk.

Created by Mike to give artists ignored by commercial stations a platform for their music, Heritage Chart positions are uniquely decided by listeners voting for their favourite song. Given that the Heritage Chart regularly features world famous acts  such as The Rolling Stones, Rod Stewart, Sting and Tom Jones, it's a remarkable achievement that with Paul’s hard work, The Starjets have now become one of the Chart's most successful artists.
 
In the mid 80's, Paul became rehearsal understudy to Irish Blues legend, Rory Gallagher. He later joined Irish Folk Rock band The Bucks, led by Terry Woods of The Pogues and featuring musicians from The Waterboys, Sinead O’Connor and Thin Lizzy. As a result of this Punk Irish fusion, he became guest guitarist with Shane MacGowan and The Popes. Punk music, Irish music, Folk Music, the Blues; it runs through his veins. PAUL BOWEN is now the sole active member of THE STARJETS. He performs live extensively, promoting The Starjets classics alongside his Starjets Heritage Chart hits. And he’s happy to play for you.
bottom of page