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Skatecore Guide

Skatecore, also known as Skate Punk, is a subgenre of punk rock that combines elements of hardcore punk with skateboarding culture. It originated in the late 1970s in Southern California, specifically in the cities of Los Angeles and San Diego. The music is typically fast and aggressive, with lyrics that often deal with skateboarding, friendship, and overcoming obstacles. Skatecore bands often incorporate skateboarding imagery into their album covers, music videos, and live performances.

Some of the most notable skatecore bands include:

Skatecore has had a significant impact on both the punk rock and skateboarding scenes. It has helped to popularize skateboarding among young people and has inspired many skateboarders to start their own bands. Skatecore has also helped to bridge the gap between the punk and skateboarding subcultures, creating a sense of community and shared identity among those who participate in both activities.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in skatecore, with a number of new bands emerging that are inspired by the sound and ethos of the original skatecore bands. This new wave of skatecore is helping to keep the genre alive and relevant for a new generation of skateboarders and punk rock fans.

Here are some of the key characteristics of skatecore music:

Skatecore is a vibrant and energetic subgenre of punk rock that continues to appeal to skateboarders and punk rock fans of all ages. It is a music that celebrates the joy of skateboarding and the spirit of punk rock rebellion.

The History Of Skatecore

Skatecore, also referred to as skateboard hardcore is a sub-genre of hardcore punk that emerged in the early 1980s revolving around the skateboarding counterculture. Skatecore bands often incorporate skateboarding themes in their music, with songs about skateboarding, skate culture, and the lifestyle associated with it.

Origins and Development: The roots of skatecore can be traced back to the late 1970s when punk rock and skateboarding began to intersect. Bands like the Dead Kennedys and Black Flag gained popularity within the skateboarding community, and skateboarding events started to feature live music performances by punk bands. This convergence led to the emergence of skatecore as a distinct sub-genre of hardcore punk.

Notable Bands and Albums: Some of the influential skatecore bands that emerged during the early 1980s included:

Suicidal Tendencies: Formed in 1980, Suicidal Tendencies is considered one of the pioneers of skatecore. Their music is characterized by aggressive vocals, fast tempos, and lyrics that reflect the struggles and frustrations of skateboarding culture. JFA (Just Fucking Around): Formed in 1981, JFA was a prominent skatecore band from Hermosa Beach, California. They released several albums with songs like "Beach Blanket Bongout" and "Skate Rock" becoming anthems for the skateboarding community. Dag Nasty: Formed in 1985, Dag Nasty was a melodic skatecore band from Washington, D.C. Their music was more accessible and less abrasive than many of their skatecore counterparts, gaining them a wider audience. Screeching Weasel: Formed in 1986, Screeching Weasel was a skatecore band from Chicago known for their catchy songs and humorous lyrics. They released several albums and toured extensively, becoming a staple of the skatecore scene. The Faction: Formed in 1987, The Faction was a New York City-based skatecore band that featured members of the legendary hardcore band Agnostic Front. Their music incorporated elements of hardcore, punk, and street culture, reflecting the diverse influences of the New York skateboarding scene.

Characteristics of Skatecore: Skatecore music is typically characterized by:

Fast Tempos: Skatecore bands often play at high speeds, creating a sense of energy and urgency that mirrors the fast-paced nature of skateboarding. Aggressive Vocals: Skatecore vocalists often use a screaming or shouting style, delivering lyrics that are passionate, rebellious, and sometimes confrontational. Political and Social Commentary: Skatecore bands often address social and political issues in their lyrics, reflecting the countercultural roots of punk rock. They may touch on topics such as skateboarding's outlaw status, police brutality, and the struggles of working-class communities. Lyrics About Skateboarding Culture: Skatecore songs frequently revolve around skateboarding, with lyrics that celebrate the sport, describe skating experiences, or capture the lifestyle associated with it. Skateboarding Imagery: Skatecore bands often incorporate skateboarding imagery into their music videos, album covers, and promotional materials, showcasing the close connection between the music and the skateboarding subculture.

Influence and Legacy: Skatecore has had a significant impact on both the punk and skateboarding communities, helping to bridge the gap between the two. Skatecore bands have provided a soundtrack for skateboarding, capturing the energy, attitude, and struggles of the skateboarding lifestyle.

The sub-genre has also influenced other genres of music, with elements of skatecore incorporated into various punk rock, hardcore, and even hip-hop artists. Skatecore bands continue to emerge, keeping the genre alive while infusing it with new ideas and perspectives.

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