The Prodigy – Keith Flint, Firestarters and a rock-rave fusion

The Prodigy’s 1996 hit "Firestarter" served as a cultural catalyst that bridged the gap between underground rave culture and mainstream rock, effectively transforming the band from a dance act into a global phenomenon. Andrew Harrison, former editor of *Mixmag*, details how Keith Flint’s transition from a silent dancer to an aggressive, punk-inspired frontman redefined the group's identity and challenged the era's musical boundaries. The discussion highlights the band's deliberate "outsider" ethos, their refusal to conform to industry expectations, and their ability to maintain a raw, high-energy aesthetic that resonated with both rock and electronic audiences. By analyzing the shock value of their music videos and their relentless touring schedule, the conversation illustrates how The Prodigy successfully navigated the transition from the rave scene to the international stage, ultimately leaving a lasting legacy as a genre-defying force in 1990s music.