Punk movement

Punk is a form of expression musically and visually. Punk Rock emerged in the 1970s with a brash, energetic sound derived from garage rock of the 60s. Originally punk bands rejected mainstream rock, and instead produced stripped-down instrumentation often with political and anti-establishment lyrics. Along with the music was also the DIY fashion which popularised black leather jackets, studs and pins in clothes made by Punk rockers. A punk’s hair was also an important part of the image, sporting the mohawk has a strong association with Punk.

Acts like Television, Patti Smith and the Ramones revolutionised the US while The Sex Pistols, the Clash and the Damned revolutionised Britain. At hardcore shows, moshing is often seen in the crowds with stage diving, this is because fan participation is an important part of the show. In early stages of the movement crowds would behave outrageously throwing items at the performers, invading the stage or even spitting which was acceptable even encouraged at these shows.. By 1977 Punk had become a cultural phenomenon in the UK and the subculture revolved around the Punk lifestyle, ideologies, visual art, music and fashion. The ideology was to deliberately stand out and rebel against the establishment fueled by anger of the recession and political uncertainty.

The Punk aesthetic was made mainstream when designer Vivienne Westwood opened the shop “SEX” with her then husband Malcolm McLaren. Her designs were made to be shocking with elements of BDSM and street punk. The shop was then renamed “Seditionaries”.

Early Punk musicians like Siouxsie Sioux wore a range of styles from bondage gear to androgyny with unusual makeup. Female musicians often acted tough with “macho energy” which extended into the later genre of Riot Grrrrl! Fronted by bands like The X Ray Specs and Bikini Kills.

In addition Punk zines were created by the fans for the underground, accordingly becoming the first genre of music to inspire fanzines