A brief introduction to the New York City's punk rock scene in the 1970's.

1. NYC Punk Rock in the 1970’s
Matt Deuerlein
MCOM 520

2. What is a punk?

3. A couple terms…
Punk – a style or movement
characterized by the adoption of
aggressively unconventional and
often bizarre or shocking
clothing, hairstyles, makeup, etc., an
d the defiance of social norms of
behavior, usually associated with
punk rock musicians and fans
Punk Rock – a type of rock n’
roll, reaching its peak in the late
1970’s and characterized by
loud, insistent music and abusive
or violent protest lyrics, and
whose performers and followers
are distinguished by extremes of
dress and socially defiant
behavior

4. CBGB (in its prime)
Stands for “Country, Blue Grass, and Blues”
Opened in 1973 at 315 Bowery, NYC
1st punk band to play – Television, beginning in 1974
Became home for bands such as Blondie, The Ramones, and the
Patti Smith Group

5. CBGB (at the end)
Closed 10/15/06 after dispute over unpaid rent
Patti Smith returned to play final concert
Kristal planned on moving club to Las Vegas
Kristal passed away 8/28/07 from lung cancer

6. New York Dolls
Formed in NYC in 1971 (reformed in 2004)
Credited with spawning the NYC punk rock scene
paved way for Ramones, Patti Smith, etc.
Originally influenced by rhythm and blues, early Rolling
Stones, Iggy and the Stooges
Original lineup included Johnny Thunders on guitar (left band in
1975)

8. Television
Formed in 1973 in NYC
More technically proficient than fellow punk
bands
Cult following in USA, commercial success in
Europe

9. Patti Smith Band
Band formed in 1974 in NYC
played solo previously
Released first single in 1974
“Hey Joe/Piss Factory”
considered by many to be first punk record
Signed by Clive Davis/Arista Records in 1975
new album fused punk rock and spoken poetry
Still performs solo presently

10. The Ramones
Formed in 1974 in Queens
Each member took on “Ramone” as last name
Played CBGB 74 times in 1974 (between August and
December)
Had little commercial success (highest #49 on Billboard)
Played final show 8/6/96 in Hollywood

11. A Sample For Your Listening
Pleasure…