Fear - The Musical Biography of a Punk Rock Icon

When it comes to the punk rock scene of the late 1970s, few bands stand out quite like Fear. Their high-energy performances and confrontational lyrics made them a staple of the Los Angeles punk scene and earned them a loyal fanbase. But who exactly was Fear, and what led them to become one of punk's most iconic bands? In this article, we explore the musical biography of Fear, from their early days to their most famous albums and songs.

Fear was formed in 1977 by Lee Ving, a singer and guitarist who had previously played in the metal band Suite 19. The band quickly gained a reputation for their loud, aggressive live shows and offensive lyrics. Fear's music was heavily influenced by punk legends like The Ramones and The Stooges, but also drew from other genres like metal and hard rock.

One of Fear's most famous albums is their 1982 release The Record. The album features several of the band's most iconic songs, including I Love Livin' in the City and Beef Bologna. These tracks perfectly showcase Fear's blend of punk, metal, and rock, with Ving's snarling vocals and scorching guitar riffs leading the charge.

One of Fear's most famous songs is Let's Have a War, which was released on their 1982 EP Fuck Christmas. The song's provocative lyrics and driving beat make it a perfect example of Fear's confrontational style. Other notable Fear tracks include New York's Alright If You Like Saxophones and Foreign Policy, both of which showcase the band's irreverent sense of humor.

Throughout their career, Fear remained a controversial and provocative band. They often courted controversy with their lyrics and onstage antics, which included fights with audience members and spitting on them. Despite the controversy, Fear remained popular and influential, and their bold style paved the way for many other punk acts to come.

Fear's musical biography is a story of a band that embraced controversy and pushed the boundaries of punk rock. Their aggressive style and confrontational lyrics made them a legend in the LA punk scene and beyond. With classic albums like The Record and unforgettable songs like Let's Have a War, Fear remains a punk rock icon that continues to inspire new generations of musicians.