50 years ago, The Damned released Britain’s first punk single. The Sex Pistols weren’t impressed

The Damned released ‘New Rose’ on 22 October 1976, often credited as the first punk single by a British band. The article says its fast, abrasive sound and independent release helped set the tone for the UK punk movement, though the claim to be first remains disputed.

The Sex Pistols had formed earlier, but their debut, ‘Anarchy in the UK’, came out on 26 November through major label EMI, before being withdrawn. Bassist Glen Matlock dismissed ‘New Rose’ as being “about a bird”, contrasting it with the Pistols’ political message. The article argues that the song’s DIY origins, raw energy and influence make it a defining early punk release despite its romantic subject.