The Punks
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1973 in Waterford, Michigan, United States |
| Defunct | 1977 |
| Headquarters | Waterford, Michigan , United States |
| Products | Music recordings, live performances |
The Punks were a proto-punk group originating from Waterford, Michigan, near Detroit, active between 1973 and 1977. Their aggressive sound anticipated the punk rock surge of the mid-to-late 1970s and the hardcore movement of the 1980s. Emerging during the final era of Detroit’s rock scene—which had produced influential acts like MC5, Iggy and the Stooges, and Death—they served as a link between 1960s garage rock and the subsequent punk scenes in New York and London. In 1977, they adopted the name the End and relocated to New York City, aiming to penetrate the punk market there; however, they were unable to establish a significant presence and soon dissolved. Although initially known primarily within Detroit and New York circles, they have since gained recognition among underground rock aficionados as pioneers of early punk. Their track "My Time's Comin'" was featured in two episodes of the 2016 television series Vinyl, co-created by Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese.
Years of activity: 1973–1977
Formed in 1973 in Waterford, Michigan, The Punks were fronted by the dynamic William "Frantic" Kuchon, whose stage persona drew comparisons to Iggy Pop. Their musical style was influenced by Detroit legends such as MC5, Iggy and the Stooges, and Alice Cooper, alongside earlier local garage bands including the Underdogs and the Unrelated Segments, as well as groups like the Velvet Underground and Blue Cheer. The band’s lineup consisted of guitarists Alan Webber and Steve Rockey, bassist Rod McMahon, and drummer Craig Webber. Renowned for their loud and high-energy shows, they occasionally incorporated glam rock-inspired costumes and theatrical elements into their performances.
Primarily performing throughout the Detroit metropolitan region, they received acclaim from prominent music journalist Lester Bangs in Creem magazine. Their former manager Richard Blondy emphasized their powerful musical style coupled with an engaging stage act. In 1974, they recorded demo tracks in the basement of the Webber family home; songs such as "My Time's Comin'", "Q1", and "Drop Dead" displayed a raw intensity that foreshadowed punk’s emergence.
By 1974, Detroit’s rock environment had deteriorated as venues closed or shifted away from rock music. Alan Webber recalled the band’s decision to "make our own noise" due to diminishing performance opportunities. Early in 1977, after adopting the name the End, they moved to New York City with hopes of breaking into the growing punk scene but failed to land a record deal or build a substantial fan base. Facing financial difficulties and waning motivation, they returned to Detroit where they ceased regular performances, occasionally playing privately without formally ending the group.
Subsequent developments
After disbandment, former members followed varied paths: vocalist William Kuchon pursued work in California’s film industry; guitarist Alan Webber retired in Pontiac; bassist Rod McMahon manages a heating and cooling company in Auburn Hills; guitarist Steve Rockey retired to Grand Blanc, Michigan. Original drummer Craig Webber died in 2011; however, his brother Paul continues his career as a drummer. Around the year 2000, MotorCityJams.com chronicled their history and facilitated a limited release CD titled The Most Powerful Music on Earth (2003), which compiled demos and recordings. This collection was later issued on vinyl by Italy’s Rave Up Records in 2005. Numerous tracks are now accessible on YouTube and other digital platforms.
The Punks’ final private show occurred in 2011 prior to Craig Webber’s passing. They reunited for a performance at the Motor City Music Awards in 2015 with Paul Webber on drums, where they received recognition as "Detroit Legends" from Violent J of The Insane Clown Posse. Toronto filmmaker Bennett Phillips is developing a documentary called My Time’s Coming: The Story of The Punks. Their song "My Time's Comin'" was featured prominently in the 2016 TV series Vinyl, co-created by Mick Jagger and Martin Scorsese; James Jagger portrayed a character recording this track. Additional songs by The Punks may appear in forthcoming episodes. Alan Webber remarked on extensive unreleased material that could be published due to renewed interest: "I’ve got tons of material we did over the years...And the rest has been history—and possibly a future."
Membership
- William "Frantic" Kuchon – lead vocals
- Alan Webber – guitar
- Steve Rockey – guitar
- Rod McMahon – bass guitar
- Craig Webber – drums
Compilations
- The Most Powerful Music on Earth (CD, Motor City Music, 2003)
- The Punks (LP, Rave Up Records, 2005)
See also
- Death – proto-punk group from Detroit active in the early to mid-1970s