In 1977 most of the world was stayin' alive to a disco groove though there was a small but growing subculture that chose a different beat. They wore ripped up jeans, bondage clothes and often unacceptable haircuts. It wasn't quite as popular in the States but punk rock was spreading its 'vile disgusting ooze' throughout the UK. It didn't start in the 70's and many would argue who really started it all.

The greats can be dated back as far as 1958, though much of it's popularity can be attributed to the late Malcolm McLaren for his marketing genius making punk popular in the UK through the 70's and in the States in the '80's. If one wants a musical history of punk one might start with some of these fairly well known groups: (not listed in any particular order)

New York Dolls

The Stooges

MC5

Siouxsie and the Banshees

Patti Smith

Dead Kennedys

Generation x

and of course The Clash

April 8, 1977 marks the debut of The Clash's first full length album "The Clash." Joe Strummer, Mick Jones, Paul Simonon and Terry Chimes (replaced by drummer Topper Headron immediately following the recordings) brought us "London Burning," "White Riot," "Janie Jones," and one of my favorites "Police & Thieves", among many other well known tunes on this self-titled record.

Most would say "London Calling" is their best album but I would have to disagree. "White Riot" hit its peak at number 12 in the UK. American radio was too worried about it's audience's virgin ears so the album was not released in the States. That made it the biggest-selling import in history; not bad for a subculture band. Canada and the UK were the only lucky ones to have the album directly available. To prevent confusion the UK covers was released with a green border while the Canadian release had a dark blue cover. It could be worth some money if you find that Canadian cover.  Today, many of the songs on this album have been covered, used in movie soundtracks and commercials, and still end up in the ipods of our 'rebellious' youth; ssshhh just don't tell them us dinosaurs listen to it too. 

For more info on The Clash, punk history, Malcolm McLaren etc... check out these sources:

Please Kill Me:The Uncensored Oral History of Punk by Legs McNeil and Gillian McCain  http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0140266909/1n9867a-20

The Clash website http://www.theclashonline.com/

General Punk Rock Info http://punkmusic.about.com/od/punk101/u/Punk101.htm

The Wicked Ways of Malcolm McLaren by Craig Bromberg http://www.amazon.com/Wicked-Ways-Malcolm-McLaren/dp/0060962046