MOTORHEAD what's words worth? NED2

The “Iron Fist” Incognito: Motörhead’s ’What’s Words Worth?’ (NED 2)

Today’s entry highlights a live album with one of the most unique backstories in heavy metal history. We are examining the 1983 UK pressing of What’s Words Worth?, released on Big Beat Records with the catalog number NED 2.

“Iron Fist & The Hordes From Hell”

Though released in 1983, this album documents a legendary gig from February 18, 1978, at The Roundhouse in London. At the time, the band was embroiled in a legal dispute with their former label, Chiswick Records, effectively banning them from performing as “Motörhead.” To circumvent this, they played a benefit concert—raising money to preserve manuscripts by the poet William Wordsworth—billed under the pseudonym Iron Fist & The Hordes From Hell. The album title is a pun on the poet’s name.

Raw, No Overdubs

Featuring the classic lineup of Lemmy, “Fast” Eddie Clarke, and “Filthy” Phil Taylor, the recording is famous for its raw authenticity, proudly boasting “no overdubs whatsoever!” on the back cover. The setlist captures the band’s early, blues-heavy sound, featuring tracks like “Iron Horse / Born To Lose,” “White Line Fever,” and a cover of John Mayall’s “I’m Your Witch Doctor.” It also opens with “The Watcher,” a nod to Lemmy’s Hawkwind days.

UK Pressing Details

This is the original UK release on Big Beat Records.

- Pressing: Manufactured by Lyntone Recordings (identified by LYN matrix numbers in the runout), ensuring a quality British pressing.

It is a fascinating snapshot of the band fighting for their survival just before they exploded into the mainstream.