Alabama 3 are a band that defy categorization. They are not from Alabama, and there are more than three of them. They are from Brixton, London, and they blend acid house, country, blues, punk, techno, and political activism into a unique and eclectic sound. They are best known for their song "Woke Up This Morning", which was used as the theme tune for the hit TV series The Sopranos. They have also contributed songs to other films and TV shows, such as Gone in 60 Seconds, The Simpsons, and The West Wing.
Alabama 3 was formed in 1995, when Jake Black met Rob Spragg at a rave in Peckham. They decided to create a fusion of country music and acid house, inspired by the likes of Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, and The Clash. They later added other members, such as Nick Reynolds, the son of one of the Great Train Robbers, Piers Marsh, the harmonica-player and synthesiser programmer, and Orlando Harrison, the keyboardist. They initially performed under the name The First Presleyterian Church of Elvis the Divine (UK), but changed it to Alabama 3 to avoid being dismissed as a novelty act. In the US, they are known as A3, to avoid legal conflict with the country music band Alabama.
Alabama 3 have released 12 studio albums, as well as several live albums and compilations. Their music is often influenced by current events and social issues, such as the war on drugs, the war on terror, and the prison-industrial complex. They are also known for their energetic and irreverent live shows, which often feature costumes, props, and audience participation. They have a loyal fan base, who call themselves "Sweet Pretty Muthafuckin Country Acid House Music All Night Long" (SPMCAMANL), after a lyric from one of their songs. Alabama 3 are a band that challenge conventions, mix genres, and make music that matters.