Steel City Grooves: A History of Pittsburgh Music

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a city forged in steel, also boasts a rich and vibrant musical history. From the bluesy grit of the early 20th century to the punk rock energy of the 80s and beyond, Steel City has always had a pulse of its own.

From Ragtime to Rock ‘n’ Roll

The early days of Pittsburgh music were marked by ragtime and blues. The legendary jazz musician, Earl “Fatha” Hines, honed his skills in Pittsburgh’s smoky clubs, eventually becoming a major force in the development of jazz.

The 1950s saw the rise of rock ‘n’ roll, and Pittsburgh was no exception. The Penguins, a group with a doo-wop sound, reached the Billboard charts with their hit “Earth Angel” in 1958. This was followed by The Marcels, who topped the charts with their novelty hit “Blue Moon” in 1961.

The Golden Age of Steel City Rock

The 1960s and 70s saw a flowering of musical talent in Pittsburgh. The The Jaggerz, with their hit “The Rapper,” were a national success story. The Persuasions, known for their tight harmonies and sophisticated arrangements, brought a unique flavor to the soul scene.

Punk rock hit Pittsburgh hard in the 1980s. The Dead Milkmen emerged as a major voice in the punk scene, known for their biting wit and unconventional songwriting.

Fun Facts About Pittsburgh Musicians:

• The Dead Milkmen’s lead singer, Rodney Anonymous, once claimed to have been abducted by aliens, but it was later revealed to be a publicity stunt.
• The Penguins famously released a novelty song called “The Little Things,” which was a parody of the popular “Little Things” song.
• Earl “Fatha” Hines was known to be a bit of a prankster and once famously threw a pie at a fellow musician during a performance.

A Legacy of Music

From its early ragtime roots to its punk rock swagger, Pittsburgh music continues to evolve and thrive. With a rich legacy and a vibrant present, Steel City’s music scene continues to inspire and entertain.