Theodore Anthony Nugent (born December 13, 1948) is an American guitarist, singer, songwriter, and political activist. He is also known by nicknames including Uncle Ted, the Nuge, and Motor City Madman. Nugent first gained recognition as the lead guitarist and occasional vocalist of the Amboy Dukes, a band formed in 1963 that performed psychedelic rock and hard rock. After the band dissolved, he pursued a solo career. His early solo albums, "Ted Nugent" (1975), "Free-for-All" (1976), and "Cat Scratch Fever" (1977), along with the live album "Double Live Gonzo!" (1978), were certified multi-platinum in the United States. His most recent album, "Detroit Muscle", was released in 2022. In 2023, he embarked on a farewell tour called the "Adios Mofo Tour" but has continued to perform since.
Nugent is noted for his use of the Gibson Byrdland guitar, his energetic guitar playing, and dynamic live performances. During much of his early solo career, he performed with other lead singers, including Derek St. Holmes, Charlie Huhn, Brian Howe, and Meat Loaf, before assuming full lead vocal duties himself. His most successful single is "Cat Scratch Fever" (1977), on which he provided lead vocals. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, he was a member of the supergroup Damn Yankees.
From the 2000s onward, Nugent has been recognized for his outspoken conservative political views and advocacy for hunting and gun rights. He has served on the board of the National Rifle Association and is a supporter of the Republican Party. Nugent has made statements critical of gun control advocates, leading to investigations in some cases.
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