Punk Rock Videos

Although music set to images has been around for decades, the music video in its current format has only been used as a powerful marketing tool for the past 25 years. Starting in 1981 with the advent of MTV, music videos have become a way for bands to increase their exposure, while also extend the message of their music into a new realm. As anti-establishment as punk may be, punk rock videos have been a part of this landscape since the very beginning.

Punk Rock Videos Over the Years

Prior to the creation of the 24-hour music video television stations, bands had to rely on touring, word of mouth and more traditional promotional outlets to gain a following. For punk this was far more difficult as it began as a marginal movement, keen on staying away from the temptations of over-commercialization. In truth, this worked in the genre's favor, as only those that truly connected with the music would typically know about the latest underground bands and shows.

Although a number of bands have used punk rock videos as an effective way to market themselves, such endeavors usually require significant financing. Considering bands like the Sex Pistols produced some of their albums for under $10,000, the expenses related to music videos were usually out of the question. Interestingly, the Internet has truly given rise to a new generation of punk rock videos--one in which the DIY spirit of punk lives on, while bands get the marketing they need to stay alive.

Thanks to the development of MP3 technology, faster downloading and the affordability of digital cameras, punk bands are now able to produce, host and distribute punk rock videos online without the help of a major label. Fans are able to visit specific sites to watch the latest release, while word of mouth can reach a far greater audience. In essence, the Internet has provided the punk community with something that they were fighting for back in the seventies: the ability to circumvent the "system" and get their message out.