Origins: Mid-1970s, New York City and London
Key Characteristics:
- Fast, short songs with simple chord progressions
- Raw, aggressive sound
- DIY (Do It Yourself) ethic
- Anti-establishment lyrics
- Minimalist instrumentation
Historical Context: Punk emerged as a reaction against the perceived excess and commercialization of 1970s rock music, embracing a stripped-down, authentic approach.
Subgenres:
- Hardcore Punk: Faster, more aggressive evolution
- Pop Punk: Melodic approach to punk energy
- Post-Punk: Experimental expansion of punk principles
- Emo: Emotional hardcore evolution
Influential Artists:
- The Ramones (New York punk pioneers)
- Dead Kennedys (Political hardcore)
- Black Flag (Hardcore punk)
- Bad Religion (Melodic punk)
- Green Day (Pop punk mainstream success)
Cultural Impact: Punk’s DIY ethic and independent approach revolutionized music distribution and inspired countless independent music movements.