Beyond the Music

Moving beyond the music and misconceptions, the discussions in this book give voice to the emergent impact of punk in the words of those who participated and were witness, and include those whose livelihoods have been shaped around the punk lifestyle. Punk is notorious for its loud music, aggressive attitude, and safety-pinned style; less well known is the radical value system that has emerged hand in hand with the sound and aesthetic. Since the 1970s, punks have built their music, fashion, and lifestyles around core values of social justice, creative freedom, community integrity, fiercely democratic politics, and do-it-yourself ingenuity. From journalism to psychology, graphic design to alternative fuel, and bodybuilding to the Occupy movement, these interviews show just some of the ways that punk values continue to shape mainstream American life.