How the Shaggs became rock’s most divisive band: a mix of stunningly awful and wonderful record
The Shaggs, a band formed in 1965 by sisters Dorothy, Betty, and Helen Wiggin under the strict guidance of their father, Austin Wiggin Jr, quickly became one of the most divisive bands in rock history. Forced to play together by their father, the sisters practiced rigorously under his watchful eye, rarely leaving their home except for church, shopping, and their weekly gig at the town hall in Fremont, New Hampshire. Betty, now 75, reflects on the sacrifices they made, missing out on typical high school experiences and being confined to their father’s musical aspirations.
Their first and only studio album, 1969’s Philosophy of the World, showcased the sisters’ unique and avant-garde style, characterized by unorthodox tunings and timing. The album, often described as a musical anomaly, garnered mixed reviews, with critics comparing it to a mass murder and yet Kurt Cobain of Nirvana listing it as one of his top five favorite records. Despite the apparent discord of their music, the Shaggs unintentionally created complex musical forms reminiscent of Frank Zappa, Captain Beefheart, and Stravinsky.
However, music was never the sisters’ true passion, and following Austin’s death in 1975, they disbanded. Helen, who had previously been expelled for marrying against Austin’s wishes, passed away in 2006. With newfound freedom after their father’s death, the sisters sold their equipment, took on regular jobs, and started families of their own, moving on from their tumultuous musical past. The Shaggs’ legacy was revived when their album was rediscovered by blues-rock group NRBQ in the 1980s, leading to a reissue and new compilation released by the band.
Despite their unintentional impact on the music world, the sisters remained humble about their achievements, unaware of their growing fan base until years later. Directors and musicologists have sought to shed light on the Shaggs’ unique story through documentaries and retrospectives, aiming to humanize and dignify the sisters’ unconventional musical journey. Betty and Dorothy, now in their 70s, came together once again for a few reunion gigs, reflecting on their past and the unexpected legacy they left behind.
In a world where music is often measured by technical proficiency and mainstream appeal, the Shaggs stand out as a testament to the power of sincerity and authenticity in art. Their accidental creation of complex musical structures and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners and artists across generations, leaving a lasting impact on the history of rock and roll. The sisters’ story serves as a reminder to check prejudices at the door and appreciate the beauty in all forms of expression, no matter how unconventional they may seem.