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Going Underground: American Punk 1979-1989 by George Hurchalla

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The American punk scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s was a vibrant and tumultuous time for music and culture. In the wake of the Vietnam War and the Watergate scandal, a new generation of young people were disillusioned with the status quo and looking for a way to express their anger and frustration. Punk music, with its raw energy and DIY ethic, provided the perfect outlet for their feelings.

Going Underground: American Punk 1979–1989

by George Hurchalla

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10024 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages

In Going Underground: American Punk 1979-1989, George Hurchalla provides a comprehensive overview of this important era in American music. The book covers the major bands and scenes of the time, from the New York Dolls to the Dead Kennedys to Black Flag. Hurchalla also explores the political and social context of the punk movement, and its lasting impact on American culture.

The DIY Ethic

One of the defining characteristics of the American punk scene was its DIY ethic. Punk bands typically recorded and released their own music, and they often organized their own tours and shows. This do-it-yourself approach gave punk bands a sense of independence and control that was lacking in the mainstream music industry.

The DIY ethic was also reflected in the punk scene's fashion and lifestyle. Punks often wore homemade clothes and accessories, and they often lived in squats or other unconventional housing situations. This anti-establishment stance was a way for punks to express their rejection of the mainstream and their desire to create their own culture.

The Political and Social Context

The American punk scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s was a time of great political and social upheaval. The Vietnam War had ended in a humiliating defeat for the United States, and the Watergate scandal had revealed the widespread corruption within the Nixon administration. The economy was also in a recession, and unemployment was high.

These factors created a sense of disillusionment and anger among many young people. Punk music provided them with a way to express their feelings about the state of the world. Punk bands often wrote songs about political issues, such as war, poverty, and racism. They also used their music to criticize the government and the mainstream media.

The Lasting Impact

The American punk scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s had a profound impact on American culture. Punk music helped to break down the barriers between the mainstream and the underground, and it inspired a new generation of artists and musicians. Punk fashion and lifestyle also had a lasting impact on popular culture.

Today, the American punk scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s is remembered as a time of great creativity and innovation. It was a time when young people found a way to express their anger and frustration, and to create their own culture. The punk movement continues to inspire new generations of artists and musicians, and its legacy will continue for many years to come.

Going Underground: American Punk 1979-1989 is an essential book for anyone who is interested in the history of American punk music. Hurchalla provides a comprehensive overview of the scene, from its origins to its lasting impact. The book is well-written and well-researched, and it is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this important era in American music.

Going Underground: American Punk 1979–1989

by George Hurchalla

4.6 out of 5