rough trade

The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again) of Rough Trade: A Groovy History

**The Story of an Independent Music Label That Defined Punk and Beyond**

Rough Trade, a name synonymous with independent music, has a history as wild and unpredictable as the artists it championed. From its humble beginnings in a London record store to its current status as a global music powerhouse, the Rough Trade story is a testament to the power of passion, punk rock, and a healthy dose of irreverence.

**From a Shop to a Legend:**

It all started in 1976, a year that witnessed the birth of punk rock and the opening of a tiny record store in London called Rough Trade. Founded by Geoff Travis, a music fanatic with a keen eye for talent, the store quickly became a hub for London’s burgeoning punk scene. The Sex Pistols, The Clash, and The Damned were just some of the bands that graced the shelves (and the stages) of Rough Trade, fueling the flames of a revolutionary musical movement.

**The Label Takes Flight:**

The shop’s success soon led to the birth of Rough Trade Records in 1978. The label quickly established itself as a haven for artists who didn’t fit the mold of mainstream music. The Buzzcocks, The Fall, and The Smiths are just a few of the iconic bands that found a home at Rough Trade, contributing to the label’s reputation for discovering and nurturing the next generation of musical rebels.

**The Ups and Downs:**

Like any good punk rock story, Rough Trade’s history has its fair share of ups and downs. The label faced financial challenges in the 1980s, but it persevered, eventually finding its footing again in the ’90s, signing bands like Pavement and Belle & Sebastian, further cementing its reputation as a tastemaker.

**Funny Facts and Quirky Characters:**

• The Smiths, who were known for their dark and brooding lyrics, also had a penchant for playful antics. During a concert, Morrissey, the band’s frontman, once threw a bag of flour at a heckler, which resulted in a flurry of flour-covered audience members.
• The Fall, led by the enigmatic Mark E. Smith, were infamous for their unpredictable live performances. Smith was known for his sharp wit and his tendency to change the band’s setlist at the last minute, much to the confusion and delight of fans.
• The Buzzcocks, a band known for their catchy pop-punk tunes, once released a single called “Orgasm Addict,” which was banned by the BBC for its suggestive lyrics. The ban, however, only served to increase the song’s notoriety.

**A Legacy of Rebellion:**

Today, Rough Trade continues to be a leading force in the independent music scene, with labels in the UK and the US. The company has remained true to its roots, supporting emerging artists and promoting the power of music to challenge norms and inspire change. Rough Trade’s story is a reminder that music can be a powerful force for good, and that the best music is often born from the margins.

**Note:** This is a simplified overview. There are many more stories, artists, and events associated with Rough Trade. Further research will lead you to a deeper understanding of this fascinating musical history.