The Damned released “New Rose,” widely regarded as the first British punk single, in 1976.
The single came out on 22 October 1976 through Stiff Records, making The Damned the first British punk band to issue a single. Its fast tempo, shouted vocals and compact running time helped define the emerging punk sound.
“New Rose” was written by guitarist Brian James and backed with a version of The Beatles’ “Help!” The Damned’s lineup at the time included Dave Vanian, Captain Sensible, Brian James and Rat Scabies.
A common mix-up is calling “Anarchy in the U.K.” the first British punk single. That Sex Pistols song was highly influential, but it was released later, in November 1976. The Damned also became the first British punk band to release an album, Damned Damned Damned, in February 1977.