Punk Rock Enthusiasts and the Evolution of New Wave: When Does Trending Become Sell-Out?
The evolution of musical genres often sparks heated debates among enthusiasts. For those who grew up with punk rock in the 70s and early 80s, the emergence of new wave can be seen as something of a shift away from the original ethos. This article explores the perspectives of both old and new wave fans, addressing the question of whether the newer style is seen as a sell-out by its punk rock counterparts.
From Punk to New Wave
For someone like me, who isn’t a hardcore punk rocker but delves into new wave of the 80s, the transition from punk-to-new wave is fascinating and somewhat polarizing. I recall the “Low” era of David Bowie, with his cold, detached vocals, makeup, fashion, synths, and angular sounds all centering around fewer guitars. I didn’t see it as a ‘sell-out’ mainly because as an American, it all seemed very cool and British to me. David Bowie’s influence over this scene was undoubtedly immense.
However, my perspective has been shaped by the music I’ve grown up with. My husband, who was into the punk/post-punk movement, suggests that it’s okay to enjoy newer wave because those older bands paved the way for new artists to refine and perfect their craft. This argument is compelling, yet my personal tastes lean more towards the intensity and rawness of punk and post-punk.
Debunking the Myth of Sell-Out in Music
Notwithstanding, it is crucial to understand that the term ‘sell-out’ in the context of music is subjective and often based on personal tastes and values. Take, for instance, Jello Biafra’s assertion that punk is for the creatively alienated, while new wave could be seen as a product of the totally alienated. Biafra argues that creating trouble can bring about change, whereas permanent revolution is an endless cycle with no end.
However, there is a nuanced view. Not all new wave music is devoid of the rebellious energy that defined punk. The anger and frustration that drove punk artists often evolved into something beautiful, sometimes internalized and transformed with other influences. This makes it less about just trying to get laid and more about expressing a deeply personal and often bleakly beautiful experience.
An Intergenerational Perspective on Music
It’s important to note that the evolution of music is not solely a generational issue but a reflection of shifting societal values and the changing tastes of audiences. The line between punk and new wave can sometimes be blurred, as evidenced by the camaraderie between bands like the Ramones and Blondie who appeared on the same stage at CBGBs in New York City in the 70s.
As I sit here at 53 years old, a defender of hardcore and thrash metal with a deep love for artists like Bad Brains, Black Flag, and Slayer, I understand the evolution of music. I embrace newer wave artists like Duran Duran, B-52s, and Psychedelic Furs. It is possible to appreciate both the raw intensity of punk and the more polished sound of new wave. The essence of music, whether its punk, new wave, or any other genre, is about expressing oneself and connecting with others through sound.
In conclusion, the notion of new wave as a sell-out is a complex issue that cannot be universally dismissed. It is a testament to the diverse and dynamic nature of music that there will always be varied perspectives on what constitutes genuine artistic expression.