Johnny Burnette – The Train Kept a Rollin’ (1956)
Listen, I’ve been a fan of punk rock for a long time. The Sex Pistols, The Clash, The Ramones right through to Husker Du and Nirvana. But I want to convince you that the first punk rock record was made in 1956. Ladies and gentleman, I invite you to enjoy the soothing sounds of Mr Johnny Burnette … the vocal and guitar part and solo are the spirit of ’76.
Categories: 1950s, All - Songs, Tracks & Music, Rock'n'Roll
Music, Punk, Rock, Rock'n'Roll, Rockabilly, Video
Despite their avowed hatred, I always thought punks and teds had a lot more in common that they’d care to admit at the time. Strangely enough i’ve always maintained that this was the first punk record ever committed to vinyl. Same song, different era. Still slightly startling even today…
Hi Rob,
Great call – hadn’t heard the Yardbirds version. Let me trump your ace …. Classic French punk band Metal Urbain with their takes – second version is the killer
The Johnny Burnette version is one of my favourite songs, even though I’m a fairly recent convert – listening to these versions has just about made my day. Love the French take on it! Thanks so much, this post has really made me smile.