In the late 70's, while under the influence of the Sex Pistols and the Clash, a Washington D.C. jazz/funk band changed its name from Mind Power to the Bad Brains. Armed with a musical dexterity that other punk bands lacked, the foursome played their songs at extreme, never-heard-before velocities. Scores of young fans eager to escape the stagnant punk genre began to attend Bad Brains' now-legendary shows, and many were inspired to form their own bands. D.C. hardcore - and some may argue the genre itself - was born.
In 1979 Bad Brains relocated to New York City and released their first single, "Pay to Cum," which would be regarded as one of the first and greatest tracks of the genre. Unhindered by their absence, the nascent D.C. scene continued to develop and diversify, largely due to the efforts of high school friends Ian MacKaye and Jeff Nelson. In 1980 they founded Dischord Records, ensuring that local hardcore punk bands would have a label to produce and distribute their albums.
In 1979 Bad Brains relocated to New York City and released their first single, "Pay to Cum," which would be regarded as one of the first and greatest tracks of the genre. Unhindered by their absence, the nascent D.C. scene continued to develop and diversify, largely due to the efforts of high school friends Ian MacKaye and Jeff Nelson. In 1980 they founded Dischord Records, ensuring that local hardcore punk bands would have a label to produce and distribute their albums.
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wish I grew up during it.
great article.