Before Reading 5 Essential Punk Bands to know Read the Disclaimer

DISCLAIMER.. If you are offended by Language, Political Truths that are uncomfortable, or the Truth period not glossed over… this is not your cup of tea. Skip it. For me, Punk Has always been the Mirror some never want to look in. Life is not pretty, but it’s Very Very REAL. I personally don’t carry a Banner for others’ beliefs, only my own. I Believe in Freedom, whether I like it or not. I don’t do Cancel Culture. 

I would rather write about 50 but had to trim it down to a number I could work and not become Methusela. Punk and Hardcore has so many Gems and is such a part of the fabric of Music History. All Punk/Hardcore bands from the most famous to the garage act of today all matter. 

1.The Germs   

Total Anarchy! The Germs were from Los Angeles, California, originally active from 1976 to 1980. The band’s main early lineup consisted of singer Darby Crash, guitarist Pat Smear, bassist Lorna Doom, and drummer Don Bolles. They released only one album, 1979’s (GI), produced by Joan Jett, and were featured the following year in Penelope Spheeris’ documentary film The Decline of Western Civilization, which chronicled the Los Angeles punk movement.

Germs disbanded following Crash’s suicide in 1980.

Germs – The Whiskey, Los Angeles 1979

Former Runaway and solo artist Joan Jett got tapped to help capture the Rawness of this Iconic Mayhem.

On Joan Jett Producing the Germs Record

2. The Damned. 

 The Damned were incredibly Musically inclined by comparison to many but they retained the spirit of Punk because well they frankly were up for anything. The band was formed in London in 1976 by lead vocalist Dave Vanian, guitarist Brian James, bassist (and later guitarist) Captain Sensible, and drummer Rat Scabies.

They were the first punk rock band from the United Kingdom to release a single, “New Rose” (1976), release an album, Damned Damned Damned (1977), and tour the United States 

The Damned – New Rose (Official HD video)

The Damned – Neat Neat Neat – Supersonic 1977 HD Best Version

3. Black Flag 

Black Flag was formed in 1976  First called Panic, the band was established by Greg Ginn, the guitarist, primary songwriter, and sole continuous member through multiple personnel changes in the band. They are widely considered to be one of the first hardcore punk bands, as well as one of the pioneers of post-hardcore.

Black Flag by any means parts 1 and 2

By Any Means: A Brief History of Black Flag (Part 1: 1976-1980)

By Any Means: A Brief History of Black Flag (Part 2: 1980-1986)

4. The Sex Pistols 

Now I love Johnny Rotten. As the Years have gone by and the insolence is still there, but he’s proven his incredible Intelligence and could do well to be a world leader, but he’d never have that. He cites the Fact if there were no Hawkwind or Alice Cooper they may have not been a Johnny Rotten. With guitarist Steve Jones, drummer Paul Cook, and bassist Glen Matlock.

Matlock was replaced by Sid Vicious in early 1977. Under the management of Malcolm McLaren, the band attracted controversies that both captivated and appalled Britain. The band’s only album Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols (1977)—a UK number one album—is a staple record of punk rock. In January 1978, at the end of their over-hyped and turbulent tour of the United States, Rotten announced the band’s break-up.

They did everything with a Flare and Flame. Steve Jones could explain why Bowie sang “The Music comes out better on a Stolen Guitar.”

Sex Pistols – Pretty Vacant (My Reproduction 20/20)

The Pistols Chaotic Tour Of America 1978

5. FEAR

Lee Ving. One of my favorite people. They Broke the Mold on him. Formed in 1977, The band is credited for helping to shape the sound and style of Californian hardcore punk.

No Matter the Line up they are even now Relentless. Dig into the internet to find the things you won’t find here. I Must just share the Madness in short Form. A Tease, a Taste of Beef Bologna. Remember any press is good press!

Video FEAR I Don’t care about you!

FEAR on SNL