The Best Alternative Band of Every Decade

The article traces alternative rock’s roots to the 1960s counterculture and underground scenes, then selects a leading band for each decade. It presents The Velvet Underground as the genre’s first true alternative band, arguing that its experimental sound and later influence helped shape punk, grunge and indie music.

It highlights the Velvet Underground’s 1967 album, which sold fewer than 30,000 copies in its first five years but later inspired artists including David Bowie, Patti Smith and R.E.M. The article also points to Talking Heads’ fusion of musical styles and R.E.M.’s path from college-rock audiences to mainstream success with *Out of Time* and *Automatic for the People*.