Budgie was a Welsh heavy metal band from Cardiff. They were one of the earliest heavy metal bands and had a significant influence on the new wave of British heavy metal and later acts like Metallica. The band released ten albums between 1971 and 1982 showcasing their blues-oriented hard rock sound. Notable pieces include Breadfan and Crash Course in Brain Surgery both covered by Metallica. Budgie's lineup changed over the years but the core members were Burke Shelley on vocals and bass and Steve Williams on drums. Budgie's music blended hard rock, heavy metal, and progressive rock elements, and their influence can be heard in bands like Iron Maiden, Megadeth, and Soundgarden.