About The Song
“Blank Generation” is the debut studio album by Richard Hell & The Voidoids, released in 1977. It is considered a seminal punk rock record that played a significant role in shaping the punk music scene of the late 1970s.
Five Facts:
- Influential Punk Anthem: The title track, “Blank Generation,” is often regarded as one of the defining anthems of the punk rock movement. Its raw energy and nihilistic lyrics captured the spirit of the era.
- Richard Hell’s Influence: Richard Hell, the band’s frontman and lyricist, is a pivotal figure in the punk rock scene. His unique fashion sense, including spiky hair and torn clothing, inspired the punk look and influenced many musicians, including members of the Sex Pistols and The Clash.
- Legacy in Punk Literature: Richard Hell is not only known for his musical contributions but also for his literary works. His 1973 essay, “The Blank Generation,” is considered a foundational text in punk literature and provided inspiration for the album’s title.
- Collaboration with Guitarist Robert Quine: The album features the exceptional guitar work of Robert Quine, who later became a highly respected guitarist in the punk and alternative rock scenes. Quine’s innovative and dissonant guitar style contributed to the album’s distinctive sound.
- Cultural Impact: “Blank Generation” is recognized for its cultural impact beyond music. The album cover, featuring a black-and-white photo of Richard Hell with the words “You make me ________” written on his shirt, became iconic and is often referenced in discussions about punk visual aesthetics.
Video
Lyrics
I was sayin’ let me out of here before I was
Even born, it’s such a gamble when you get a face
It’s fascinatin’ to observe what the mirror does
But when I dine it’s for the wall that I set a placeI belong to the blank generation and
I can take it or leave it each time, well
I belong to the generation but
I can take it or leave it each timeTriangles were fallin’ at the window as the doctor cursed
He was a cartoon long forsaken by the public eye
The nurse adjusted her garters as I breathed my first
The doctor grabbed my throat and yelled, “God’s consolation prize!”I belong to the blank generation and
I can take it or leave it each time, well
I belong to the generation but
I can take it or leave it each timeTo hold the T.V. to my lips, the air so packed with cash
Then carry it up flights of stairs and drop it in the vacant lot
To lose my train of thought and fall into your arms’ tracks
And watch beneath the eyelids every passing dotI belong to the blank generation and
I can take it or leave it each time, well
I belong to the generation but
I can take it or leave it each timeI belong to the blank generation and
I can take it or leave it each time, well
I belong to the generation but
I can take it or leave it each time