First Punk Artist/Band?

Electrophonic Tonic · 07-01-2011, 12:40 PM

From what I've seen and read, the answer I've seen the most is Sex Pistols when they released 'Never Mind the Bollocks' in 1976.

But! Are there other candidates that could be considered the first punk band?

Link Wray:
-Maybe a stretch, but his pioneering use in distortion and power chords and his general punkish attitude in 50's rock n roll give him some credibility. He's a major influence at the least.

The Sonics:
-Probably my nomination. Part of the garage rock scene in the mid 60's and I don't see much separation between them and Sex Pistols in terms of sound and attitude, despite being over a decade older.

The Monks:
-Iggy Pop said something along the lines of they are the definition of punk because of their stripped down sound and simplicity. Anyone who has heard them can second the motion about simplicity.

MC5/The Stooges:
-Pretty self explanatory. Two big proto-punk bands that could be considered the first punk band.

Your thoughts? Any other nominations?

07-01-2011, 12:40 PM	#1 (permalink)
Electrophonic Tonic Your Ad Here Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: The Twilight Zone Posts: 876	First Punk Artist/Band? From what I've seen and read, the answer I've seen the most is Sex Pistols when they released 'Never Mind the Bollocks' in 1976. But! Are there other candidates that could be considered the first punk band? Link Wray: -Maybe a stretch, but his pioneering use in distortion and power chords and his general punkish attitude in 50's rock n roll give him some credibility. He's a major influence at the least. The Sonics: -Probably my nomination. Part of the garage rock scene in the mid 60's and I don't see much separation between them and Sex Pistols in terms of sound and attitude, despite being over a decade older. The Monks: -Iggy Pop said something along the lines of they are the definition of punk because of their stripped down sound and simplicity. Anyone who has heard them can second the motion about simplicity. MC5/The Stooges: -Pretty self explanatory. Two big proto-punk bands that could be considered the first punk band. Your thoughts? Any other nominations?