Punk Rock....Raver?

In my last post, I discussed the importance of punk rock and how a generation of young outcasts flocked to its aggressive style. When we think punk rock, we think of mohawks and spikes. Others think of leather jacks and chains. But have you ever thought of glowsticks and strobe lights? Maybe dance floors and glittery clothes? Punk rock may have been loud, arrogant and in your face, but it influenced a whole new generation of musical artists. These artists would go on to create what would later be called "Raver Nation."

There must be something in the water in Manchester, England because there seems to be no shortage of great musical acts hailing from that region. From the Smiths to Oasis, Manchester has pumped out a seemingly endless stream of influential artists. However, one band that seems to go under the radar and is still one of the most influential bands to come out of Manchester is Joy Division. Joy division was directly influenced by the Sex Pistols, another British act. The were signed by journalist Tony Wilson who started his own record label called Factory Records.

Joy Division was a huge success, but unfortunately, while preparing for their first U.S. tour the lead singer Ian Curtis committed suicide. However, the band still released their highly-anticipated album "Closer" with the single "Love Will Tear Us Apart" which would be the bands highest charting single. The three remaining members would go on to form the critically and commercially successful band New Order.

But what does this all mean, and how did this start the rave scene? Great question my friend! Tony Wilson, the journalist who signed Joy Division and now New Order, along with Rob Gretton needed a venue were bands with "different sounds" could play. A place free of judgement and an alternative to the mainstream clubs that had filled Manchester at the time. Wilson and Gretton created a venue called the Hacienda, and right away it was a success. It was packed every night and gave bands like New Order a venue to display their new style of music that was not punk, but not dance.



However, by the late 80's, the Hacienda was facing financial troubles and was unable to book big bands. Instead, they booked DJs because it was cheaper. Eventually, every night there was a new DJ. This was the birth of what we now know as night clubs. The Hacienda was the first place to embrace using a DJ and changed nightlife forever. It was the first place to hold all night raves and started "Raver Nation." Though the Hacienda would eventually go out of business, its legacy will continue forever.

And to think, every time you go to a nightclub or rave and dance, you owe it all to some punk rockers from Manchester.