Founding Damned Guitarist Brian James Dies at 70
Briefly

Brian James, the founding guitarist and principal songwriter of The Damned, has died at the age of 70. Known for his vital role in the UK's punk movement, James contributed to many notable works, including the band's debut single 'New Rose' in 1976, which made them the first UK punk band to release a single. His efforts transformed The Damned into a punk phenomenon, and he played a central role in their influential early albums. Despite a brief hiatus from the band, his impact on punk music remains significant.
Brian James was a pioneering force in UK punk music, known for his work as the founding guitarist and principal songwriter for The Damned. His creativity helped define the early punk scene.
Born in Hammersmith and part of London SS, James helped form The Damned, who released 'New Rose' in 1976, marking the start of the UK punk explosion.
Read at Pitchfork
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