Punk or New Wave: Navigating the Musicians' Subcultures in the Late 70s-early 80s

Introduction

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the question of distinguishing between punk and new wave was often avoided, largely because it was more of a personal and cultural choice rather than a direct answer. However, exploring this question provides insight into the distinct yet interconnected subcultures that emerged in response to the musical styles dominating the period. This article delves into the differences and similarities between punk and new wave, offering a rare glimpse into the cultural landscape of the time.

Defining the Terms: Punk and New Wave

The terms 'punk' and 'new wave' are often used interchangeably, but they refer to distinctly different musical and cultural movements that emerged around the same time. Punk, initially rooted in the DIY (Do It Yourself) ethos of the 1970s, emphasized raw, aggressive energy and 'anyone can do it' mentalities. By contrast, new wave was characterized by a more polished, synthesizer-driven sound, often accompanied by clever lyrics and innovative music videos.

Early Influences and Styles

During this period, the music scene in San Diego mirrored the broader trends seen across the US. For many high school students, identifying as either punk or new wave hinged on what kind of music one listened to and how one dressed. In San Diego, punk fashion was somewhat underrepresented, possibly due to a lack of rebelliousness or cultural resistance. Instead, those who identified with the punk scene tended to dye their hair black and listen to influential bands such as The Clash and The Circle Jerks.

Those who felt more aligned with the new wave movement commonly dressed in a mod style and enjoyed the music of Tears for Fears and Depeche Mode. This contrast highlights the diversity of the youth culture, with both groups embracing new ways of expressing themselves through music and fashion. However, despite their differences, these subcultures shared a common thread: a desire to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.

Personal Experiences and Cultural Isolation

The author of the original text, having grown up on a remote island off the coast of California, experienced firsthand the unique isolation that came with living far from the traditional music scenes of the mainland. Growing up in this environment, the island's music was heavily influenced by 1960s rock, Southern rock, and the occasional radio hits from stations like 95.5 KMET, 96 KLOS, and KERTH 101, which predominantly played 1960s Motown.

Disco was particularly shunned, a situation reminiscent of the Amish shunning of modern culture. Meanwhile, punk and new wave music held a certain mystique, rarely played on the radio and associated with more rebellious, unconventional behavior. This contrast is evident in the author's observation that during the summers spent in England, he was exposed to these new sounds and cultures, which left a lasting impact.

The author's return home after these formative years saw him bringing music back that he had purchased, including records by Sex Pistols, The Buzzcocks, The Jam, Secret Affair, The Skiddz, Gary Newman, The Clash, and Stiff Little Fingers. Despite his efforts to share this music with his peers, the limited success reflects the cultural and social barriers that often exist between subcultures.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the question of whether one identified as punk or new wave was more about personal choice and cultural perceptions rather than a strict classification. Both punk and new wave offered a sense of freedom, creativity, and rebellion, each appealing to different aspects of the youthful spirit. For those like the author, their experiences in these subcultures helped shape their understanding of music, fashion, and culture in ways that continue to influence them today.

Listening to old records and revisiting these memories is a testament to the enduring impact of the late 1970s and early 1980s music scene. As we listen to these records, we are not only reliving the past but also gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural dynamics that shaped an entire generation.