Named after the UK’s emergency telephone number, the English punk rock band 999 was founded in London by singer and guitarist Nick Cash, and Guy Days. They recruited Jon Watson on bass and Pablo LaBritain on drums, LaBritain having briefly played with the Clash. 999 soon established themselves as a powerful live act on the London punk scene. “I’m Alive” became a firm favourite in the punk clubs.

Their self-titled debut album 999, produced by Andy Arthurs, was originally released in March 1978. The singles ”Me And My Desire” and “Emergency” demonstrated their strengths. “Emergency” was included in Mojo magazine’s list of the best punk rock singles of all time.