On This Date in 1978: The Clash released its fifth single, “(White Man) In Hammersmith Palais.” This song contains my very favorite Clash lyrics, ever: “Turning Rebellion Into Money.” If that isn’t a concise manifesto for Punk Rock – and Rock & Roll in general – I don’t know what is.
“Your Generation Don’t Mean A Thing To Me”
On This Date, September 1st in 1977: Generation X released its debut single “Your Generation,” backed by “Day By Day.” The single reached the #36 spot on the U.K. singles chart. The London punk band, fronted by Billy Idol, disbanded in 1981. Generation X was always among my top three of four favorite first wave British punk bands, not incidentally because I had a mad crush on Billy Idol. Aside from the very excellent debut album I’d also recommend the band’s second album, Valley of The Dolls, which was produced by Ian Hunter.
“Yeah, well, I say what I mean
I say what comes to my mind
Because I never get around to things
I live in a straight – straight line
You know me – I’m acting dumb
you know the scene – very humdrum
boredom – boredom
B’dum b’dum”
Backstory:
On January 29, 1977, Buzzcocks released their first record, the 7-inch Spiral Scratch – a four song EP containing “Breakdown,” “Times Up,” “Boredom” and “Friends Of Mine.” None of the tracks would appear on an album. Lead singer Howard Devoto left the band shortly after its release. Pete Shelley moved to the front and, after a brief time with Garth Davies, brought in Steve Garvey on bass to form the classic lineup which lasted until 1981. The Manchester, England punk band re-formed in 1989. Pete Shelley and Steve Diggle remain from the original lineup. Howard Devoto went on to form Magazine and Luxuria.