What a ridiculously vague and subjective question. It sounds like something a child would ask. Furthermore, it's rather bizarre considering the punk rock genre's traditionally anti-hierarchical stance.

Defining "Greatest"

Before diving into who might be considered the greatest punk rocker, it's important to define what we mean by "greatest." Is it the most influential, the most successful, or perhaps the one who best encapsulated the spirit of punk? Defining these criteria might help us move closer to answering the question.

A Brief History of Punk

The punk rock movement, which began in the mid-1970s, was characterized by its raw, aggressive sound and a DIY ethos. Pioneers like the New York Dolls and Sex Pistols defined the sound and style of the genre, and every band that came after was influenced by their unique approach.

Johnny Thunders: Punk Rock's First Inventor

One name that stands out when discussing the greatest punk rockers is Johnny Thunders. He was one of the inventors of the genre alongside the New York Dolls. His influence on the punk scene was immense; everyone from Aerosmith and the Sex Pistols to later punk bands were inspired by his style during the early 1970s. Although the New York Dolls never became incredibly commercially successful, Johnny Thunders was the heart and soul of the band, and his influence on the genre cannot be overstated.

Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers

By the time 1977 rolled around, Johnny Thunders was well-established in the punk scene as a rock star. He formed the Johnny Thunders and the Heartbreakers with Richard Hell, though Richard didn't stick around for long. The band developed a less glam, grittier punk style that influenced many other acts. The Sex Pistols, in particular, have expressed embarrassment at how much they tried to emulate Thunders and the Heartbreakers' style.

Johnny Thunders' Unique Musicality and Style

Unlike many other punk rockers, Johnny Thunders was actually a great musician. His guitar playing was rough, unmatched, and had a sleazy, swaggy quality that remains unparalleled to this day. His manipulation of the strings created a music that seemed to drunkenly swagger down the street. Thunders was a true non-conformist; his style changed over time but never fit into any boxes, and he never sold out commercially.

But Thunders Was More Than Just a Musician

Johnny Thunders was a consummate junkie and was known to rob greedy concert promoters for drug money. His lifestyle was often bleak and tumultuous, but he had a soft side as well. Thunders wasn't scared of writing heartfelt ballads, and some of the most poignant songs in punk history were penned by him. Bob Dylan himself said that he wished he had written the lyrics to "Can't Put Your Arm Around a Memory," a song Thunders co-wrote with Richard Hell. Thunders did it all and did it better than anyone else.

So, for inventing a wide array of rock and roll styles, from arena rock to punk and hair metal, and doing so in a style that was unmatched and influential, Johnny Thunders was indeed the greatest punk rocker of all time. No question about it!

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the concept of "greatest" in the punk rock genre is highly subjective, Johnny Thunders stands out as a figure whose influence and musical genius were unparalleled. He was not just a punk rocker but a true icon of rock and roll.