The Heavy Metal Kids were formed in 1973 by the merger of two previous bands: Heaven and Biggles. They took their name from a gang of street kids featured in a novel by legendary beat generation writer William Burroughs. The initial, pre-recording line-up consisted of Mickey Waller (Guitar), Ronnie Thomas (Bass and Vocals), Gary Holton (Lead Vocals), Keith Boyce (Drums) and Cosmo (Guitar). They were the first signing by Atlantic Records' new London offices, having been spotted by A & R man and sixties legend, Dave Dee.