Mott the Hoople Reuniting for 40th Anniversary Gigs in October

Best known for their smash-hit "All the Young Dudes" in 1972, Mott the Hoople are reuniting to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the band's formation in 1969. The British glam-rock band has thus far scheduled just two shows at London's HMV Apollo (formerly known as the Hammersmith Apollo) on October 2nd and 3rd.

These concerts will mark the first time that the band's original lineup has performed together in 35 years. The original band members include singer Ian Hunter, guitarist Mick Ralphs, bassist Overend Watts, organist Verden Allen, and drummer Dale Griffin.

The band's hit song, "All The Young Dudes" was written and produced by David Bowie, a big fan of the band. The song became a hit single, and landed at #253 on Rolling Stone's list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time and #491 on Rolling Stone's 500 Greatest Albums list. The song was also named on the list of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's 500 Songs that Shaped Rock & Roll.

The band could never match the success of "All The Young Dudes", and split in 1974. Ralphs and Hunter left the band, but two more albums were released with new members following their departure. Hunter went on to have a decent solo career, and is well-known for writing the song "Cleveland Rocks". Ralphs ended up forming Bad Company with Paul Rodgers.

Right now, there are just the two Apollo shows slated for the 40th anniversary reunion, and it is not known if other shows will be added or if a tour is being planned.