Which punk band's debut single was 'New Rose'?

The punk band whose debut single was “New Rose” was The Damned.

Released by Stiff Records on 22 October 1976, “New Rose” is widely recognized as the first single issued by a British punk band. The song was written by guitarist Brian James and produced by Nick Lowe, helping establish The Damned at the forefront of the early UK punk movement.

The single also introduced the band’s distinctive lineup: Dave Vanian on vocals, Brian James on guitar, Captain Sensible on bass, and Rat Scabies on drums. Its fast, compact sound contrasted sharply with the polished rock dominating the charts at the time. The B-side was a dramatically accelerated cover of The Beatles’ “Help!”.

A common mix-up is confusing “New Rose” with The Damned’s first album, Damned Damned Damned. The single came first, but it was later included on that 1977 debut album. The song’s famous opening line also references The Shangri-Las’ 1964 hit “Leader of the Pack.”