THE 900

For most of us, the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater series was more than a video game - it was a definitive music discovery tool that blurred the lines between skate-punk, hip-hop, and metal. The 900 have turned that nostalgia into a high-energy live experience, becoming the UK’s primary curators of the Birdman’s legendary soundtrack.

What began as a niche idea in a 2020 jam session has since evolved into a touring project that has shared the stage with Tony Hawk himself. We caught up with the band to talk about the their origins, the technicality of re-working classic tracks, and why this specific era of music still resonates in 2026.

Every band has a lightbulb moment. Was there a specific jam session or a late-night conversation that made you guys decide to take on the project and hone in on the legendary culture behind the THPS soundtrack? What was the exact moment you realized this wasn't just a fun idea for a one-off set, but a project worth building a brand around?

Back in 2020, myself (Harry - Drums), Lewis (Bass) and original guitarist, Connor, had a jam at Lewis’ flat where we decided we wanted to do a cover band which was niche, that no-one had done before. Initially, we set out to do a 90’s themed band and as we were thinking of cultural references to name ourselves after, I had the idea of starting a Tony Hawk Pro Skater cover band. It seemed like an open goal as there weren’t any other bands doing it in the UK then and it’s full of songs that inspired an entire generation. Once we started to do shows, especially after the show Tony Hawk attended, it was a justification that it was a good idea!

The THPS soundtracks are famous for erasing the borders between skate-punk, hip-hop, ska, and metal. When you first started rehearsing, which genre proved to be the most technically demanding to get right? Is it harder to nail the precision of a fast paced punk track or the pocket and swing of the hip-hop tracks?

Both have their challenges, but the biggest challenge was re-writing 2 of the songs in the set - When Worlds Collide by Powerman 5000 and Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash. Making both of these fit how we play the songs in the set was a long process but we’re very happy we did as they’re some of the funnest songs to play live.

Photo Creds - @ambygphotos

How does your personal history and connection with skate culture influence how you approach the performance of these songs and the band in general?

We all lean heavily into our personal connection with music, more so than the skate culture. Whilst we all skated when we were younger, we all gravitated towards music and playing live rather than focussing on skating. We know what kind of show we would see if we went to a Tony Hawk Pro Skater cover band so we try to be as high energy and “professional” to a level as possible. I mean, you can’t take yourself TOO seriously when you’re in a THPS cover band afterall!

Can you describe the first time you played a full set together? Was there a specific song where you looked at each other and realized, "This is more than nostalgia - this is actually a high-energy punk show that a whole generation can connect with"?

Our first live show was at The Parish in Huddersfield - I remember we opened with Evil Eye by Fu Manchu but the rest of the night was a bit of a blur! I would say the moment when it really clicked was one of our first shows at New Cross Inn in London. We play there at least once a year, and every time is better than the last. The first time we played there we sold it out (which was amazing), the windows were steaming, the crowd lost their mind from the very first song and everyone was drenched in sweat by the end of it.

You are now the curators of these songs for a live audience. Do you feel a sense of responsibility to keep this specific era of music alive for the newer generation, or is it purely about the catharsis of playing the music you grew up with?

A 900 show is all about the nostalgia and reliving the songs that helped shape music tastes of a generation.

You’ve famously performed with the Birdman himself. Beyond the adrenaline of that moment, what was the most surprising thing you learned about him as a music fan? Did he give you any feedback on your authenticity to the era?

Tony’s genuine love and interest in the music that appeared in the games was really remarkable. From what he told us, he had direct input into choosing the songs in the earlier games which is mad! We spoke about the bands on the soundtrack and our singer at the time, Jenk, spoke in depth about Primus. When we introduced Tony at the show, he opened with “Aren’t these guys great?!” which still resonates! All hail the Birdman.

Photo Creds: Doug Young

Cover bands often choose the most popular hits to ensure a good crowd interaction. Why did you choose this specific niche? Was it a reaction to the state of modern music, or was it a personal need to preserve the culture you grew up in?

The 900 is an incredibly niche band but those who get it, get it. When I suggested the idea to the guys, we were all on board immediately, but when I spoke to my girlfriend about it, she didn’t think it was a good idea but she didn’t play any of the games growing up. We wanted to be unique in a sense that if you wanted to relive the music from the THPS series, we’re the band for you! It just so happens that this series of games have the BEST and most varied songs from a huge roster of bands.

Rapid-fire questions:

The Ultimate Anthem: Superman by Goldfinger or Ace of Spades by Motörhead?

Superman is THE Tony Hawk Pro Skater song.

Footwear of Choice: Classic Vans, Etnies, or Converse?

Vans all day!

What’s the one song that always fills the room’s energy to 100%?

I’ll pick 3 - Superman by Goldfinger, When Worlds Collide by Powerman 5000 and 96 Quite Bitter Beings by CKY

Best venue for a rowdy crowd?

Tough one… I’ll do 3 again and name drop the venue. New Cross Inn, London. Joiners, Southampton. Thekla/Exchange, Bristol.

The 2026 THPS Soundtrack: If you could curate 8 songs for a modern day THPS soundtrack, which tracks would you include?

We’ll give you 10:

Aging Jerk - Drug Church

Infinite Source - Deftones

Wired - Basement

Punk Tactics - Joey Valance and Brae

Take the Rain - Feels Like Heaven

Post Boredom - Every Time I Die

The First Test - Speed

Pain is a Must - Angel Du$t

Virus - Black Breath

Piece by Piece - Slayer

Out of the whole band, who is actually the best skater?

Our guitarist Sam without question!

Where can our readers check you out and what do you guys have planned for the rest of 2026?

Best to check our Instagram - @the900banduk - for show dates and merch!