Babyshambles

The music of English indie-rock band Babyshambles is often overshadowed by the exploits of their lead singer, Pete Doherty. He was originally one of the key members of The Libertines, whose 2002 album Up the Bracket was a critical smash in the UK. Before their second album, relations between Doherty and co-songwriter Carl Barât became fractious, exasperated by Doherty's heavy drug habit. While the Libertines were away on tour without him, Doherty burgled Barât's house. He was jailed and, after a short reunion during which a second album was recorded, the relationship failed again and the band split up.

Doherty had started Babyshambles as a side-project in the meantime, but now took it on as his main musical vehicle. They have released two albums -- Down in Albion (2005) and Shotter's Nation (2007) - to mixed reviews. However, they retain a devoted fanbase, with many convinced that Doherty is a genius thanks to his earlier Libertines work. The British public-at-large know Doherty better through regular coverage in the tabloid press. He dated supermodel Kate Moss, and is frequently arrested on charges of possessing hard drugs. He has also been accused of petty theft and assault.