Punk Rock Your Life: The Simple Six-Letter Word That Determines Success
Editor’s note: This is a guest post from Brian Clark of Copyblogger and Teaching Sells.
It’s June of 1976 in Manchester, England, and a small group of people gather in a tiny venue called the Lesser Free Trade Hall to see a band play. There’s nothing really remarkable about this group of 42 people, and that evening’s featured musicians are unknown at the time.
The band calls themselves the Sex Pistols.
As I mentioned, there were no famous people in the crowd at this show, or at the follow-up show that happened about a month later. The Sex Pistols had not yet caused an uproar throughout Britain with songs like Anarchy in the UK and God Save the Queen, and it was well before they invaded the US in 1978.
Attendees ranged from the local mailman to a few rebellious school children. But a handful of others in that small audience became some of the most influential people in independent and now mainstream music.
In that tiny crowd were the likes of Tony Wilson, who went on to start the influential Factory Records (home to New Order and Happy Mondays) and The Haçienda nightclub (the birthplace of rave culture), legendary producer Martin Hannett, and Paul Morley who became a music journalist for NME.
Also in attendance were the members of future punk favorites the Buzzcocks, Mark E. Smith of The Fall, Mick Hucknall who became lead singer of Simply Red, Morrissey who would later front The Smiths, and the founding members of Joy Division, who after the death of their lead singer would carry on as New Order.
If you’re not familiar with alternative music from the 1980s, let me put this in perspective. This tiny concert is considered on par with Woodstock and Live Aid in terms of importance, due to the influence the audience went on to have on popular music by creating the independent music scene.
Contrary to what you might think, not everyone in the audience thought the Sex Pistols were fantastic. Sure, some were attracted to the fresh, raw power of punk and the “do it yourself” ethos that came with it, but others thought the Pistols sounded like rubbish and thought they could do better.
Regardless, that small group of people spotted the changing dynamics in music and took action, because if the Pistols could do it, so could they. By seeing the inevitable future they became important players in that future.
Why did I just tell you a story about punk rock and independent music? Well, lots of people can spot trends and have great ideas, but only some do anything about it.
So, what’s the six-letter word that determines success in life?
Action.
What are you getting done today?
Brian Clark is the founder and editor of Copyblogger and the co-founder of Teaching Sells.
If you liked this article, please share it on del.icio.us or on Digg. I’d appreciate it. :)
Elsewhere: LifeDev has a great post - 9 Reasons Why You SHOULD Adopt GTD (Digg it if you like it!)
- Posted on 18 February 2008 in Goals, Motivation, Productivity & Organization |
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Comments (96)
Clay Collins | The Growing Life Says:
February 18th, 2008, 20:51 pm
Good point. I was reading the other day that the #1 characteristic of the world’s most successful businesspeople was rapidity in putting new ideas to action. If they learned something new, they strove to implement it immediately.
Stephan Miller Says:
February 18th, 2008, 21:22 pm
That’s all it takes, one foot in front of the other.
BarbM Says:
February 18th, 2008, 21:50 pm
So I’ll make up a test batch of my latest idea and take it around to the alternative shops this week. Too bad I didn’t get it before Millenium Music Fest.
Amir Ahmad | PassionBasedLearning.com Says:
February 18th, 2008, 21:57 pm
Great post and story Brian. :)
Marelisa Says:
February 18th, 2008, 22:25 pm
I think we should have a whole-brain approach to life. Use the right brain hemisphere to imagine future possibilities (what if . . . why isn’t there a . . . how can this be improved . . .what’s the next paradigm shift . . .) and to create a clear picture of our new vision in our minds. Then use the left hemisphere of the brain to create a logical, well thought-out action plan. And then, of course, your word Brian . . . ACTION!
I for one am in the process of creating a website and blog to serve as a resource for others to help them create and live their optimal lives. It’s new and still very much a work-in-progress, but I’m definitely acting.
Tom Stine Says:
February 18th, 2008, 22:59 pm
I loved the post until I get to the word “action.” It seems that way too often people focus too much on getting into action. While action does seem to be a necessary part of the equation, there are many factors that come before it. I’ve seen many, many posts here at Zen Habits that would seem to agree. Just my opinion, but what about the following words: desire (6 letters), drive, determination, creativity, passion, love. I can think of others, but you get the point.
Corey - Simple Marriage Project Says:
February 18th, 2008, 23:00 pm
Action.
This word is also one of the first steps to overcoming depression and anxiety. Action overcomes many of life’s ailments. Great post.
The Financial Philosopher Says:
February 18th, 2008, 23:03 pm
“Acting” is what we do. “Being” is who we are. Our objective should be to combine the two…
BigJim Says:
February 18th, 2008, 23:22 pm
This is a direct recycle of Brian Clark “Teaching Sells” pdf material. I’m not sure how I feel about rehashing old material.
Brian Clark Says:
February 18th, 2008, 23:32 pm
Hey BigJim. There are a lot of people in Leo’s audience who wouldn’t bother reading the Teaching Sells report, and it’s a really cool story (well, I think so).
Plus, this way I got to link to all the You Tube videos. :-)
banji - LessonInLife.com Says:
February 18th, 2008, 23:35 pm
I’m assuming most of the readers that read ZenHabits are actually thinkers. We take pride when we know everything there is to know about motivation, planning, all the details.
Unfortunately, there is this trap for all of us. Call it the thinker trap if you want, but generally we are so caught up with our thinking, planning, reading never-ending resources that we sometime fail to do the one thing that determine success.
You said it - ACTION
thanx for the subtle reminder Brian :) (just sharing another point of view)
Andrew Weaver Says:
February 19th, 2008, 0:08 am
I’ve known this story for years, and yet it never occurred to me to apply it in this sense. Great point! Such a simple one too, but so difficult for us to apply sometimes.
Ryan@ProspectingLIFE Says:
February 19th, 2008, 0:38 am
You are absolutely right. The only way to achieve your goals is to put them into ACTION. Otherwise, you can just continue to call your goals “Day Dreams”!
Judith Airey Says:
February 19th, 2008, 0:55 am
OMG!
Clicked on the Buzzcocks link and it was Top of the Pops! Jimmy Savile doesn’t look any better 30 years on. I miss those days.
Great post. I will reminisce and take action. Back to the future?
Miss Gisele from myBeautyMatch.com Says:
February 19th, 2008, 1:05 am
Leo,
ACTION is the most important word in the arsenal of any entrepreneur.
Great story!!!
Miss Gisele B.
Eugene (Editor, Varsity Blah) Says:
February 19th, 2008, 1:20 am
That’s so true. All the knowledge and good intentions in the world mean nothing unless they’re applied.
Peter Says:
February 19th, 2008, 1:25 am
That certainly made for compelling reading! And yes, I couldn’t agree more that it is ACTION that is the main determinant of success in life.
Joe O'Day Says:
February 19th, 2008, 1:25 am
I liked this headline — A LOT.
And it definitely got me to take some action.
Connie Ragen Green Says:
February 19th, 2008, 1:29 am
Action is important, but it must be inspired action or you are just spinning your wheels and getting really sweaty. Think about what you want to do, make a plan, and then take action - inspired action, that is.
John Says:
February 19th, 2008, 2:06 am
I am really confused as to why this post is appearing in Zen Habits. Tha idea of action is great, but tying it in with the Sex Pistols motivating other individuals to form punk rock bands? Where was the “action” for someone to stop Sid Vicious’ herion addiction before he overdosed. Where was the “action” to help Ian Curtis, lead singer for Joy Division, before he commited suicide? And a semi fictional film was made about the late Tony Wilson’s life, titled “24 Hour Party People”. Yes, the punk rock scene brought a lot of “action”, self-destuctive action in my opinion.
Gerry Westwood Says:
February 19th, 2008, 3:22 am
John,
Re-self destruction. Actions speak louder than words!
Robert Says:
February 19th, 2008, 3:39 am
John,
Action, whether it be good or bad at least has direction.
You can be on the right track, but if you don’t move the train’s gonna hit you!
Besides, it’s all just a real example how one seemingly small event was so significant. Even the smallest of steps can be used to start any journey.
Tom Beaton Says:
February 19th, 2008, 6:10 am
Hey Brian, cool article there. This whole “Madchester” scene is receiving quite a lot of TV time in the UK in the last few months. A lot of it spurred by Tony Wilson’s death. There is a new film out about Joy Division soon too called “Control”. It has had great reviews!
Eamon Mack Says:
February 19th, 2008, 6:20 am
I never really appreciated the Sex Pistol themselves, but I have been a fan of many of the bands that followed.
I’m completely stuck in ‘analysis paralysis’ at the moment, the message on the importance of ‘action’ is well timed!
Georgio Says:
February 19th, 2008, 6:26 am
Leo I agree with John - I don’t know what the heck this post is doing here, it just doesn’t fit the usual positive simplified optimised writing that you publish, but instead is just some anecdotal spin on a topic - “action”. Anyone could have put any word in there and you don’t just take “action” and get great results! You need goals, MITs, simplicity, and focus - all the great things yoh’ve written about. Your blog has produced much higher quality work than this fluffy nebulous rambling. Please get back to your ZenHabits writing. Last week someone complained about the guestposts and I didn’t agree with them. Now I do because this post adds no value to your awesome blog. Bring back Leo! This sort of post is like “The Secret” rubbish. Just 1 person’s opinion, non-implentable, new-age junk. Question it and your a sceptic, a non-believer.
Jen, writer MembershipMillionaire.com Says:
February 19th, 2008, 6:53 am
To answer your question (which sounded more like a challenge), I’m working today. Although I have already met my quota for the day, I still have enough time to accomplish more. Why leave out the things I can do today for tomorrow? That will only push me behind schedule and instead of being able to do more things for the next few days, I’m stuck with what I could have done today. I don’t like leftovers.
Snit Says:
February 19th, 2008, 7:42 am
Joy Division. My favorite band of all time.
Crystal, from jewelfaerie.com Says:
February 19th, 2008, 8:17 am
What am I getting done today? I’m writing away, trying to get my little blog going :-)
Plus I’m going to the Dollar store. I heard they sell my favorite tea for 1/3 the price. Hey, a gal can dream…
~Crystal
http://www.jewelfaerie.com
Stephen Martile Says:
February 19th, 2008, 8:55 am
Hi Leo - I couldn’t help but contribute.
James Ray said it best when he quoted,
“Remember, while the journey may be spiritual,
the results must be practical.”
Be practical by taking action in the physical world. When you’re taking consistent actions and creating results you will create new reference points for yourself that will change your thinking. By doing and taking action you will change the way you experience yourself AND change what you believe. To learn more see,
How to Change Your Beliefs with Praxis, Part 2
http://www.stephenmartile.com/?p=108
Stephen Martile
Personal Development Made Simple
http://www.stephenmartile.com
reeco Says:
February 19th, 2008, 9:00 am
Georgia and others who don’t understand why this post has been written the way it has.
To deliver a great point (or anything message related) one needs to package it so that it “resonates” with its target audience.
Its obvious the author was building upon the ending like any true story teller. You cant say “ACTION people” its good for you. It needs to be given emotional substance to really stick. It may of missed the mark with some but obviously hit the mark with many and as a writer thats a great achievement and the best you can hope for
The story is greater if you see it in action which is what I’m sure(yep positive) the author has done. 24 HOUR PARTY PEOPLE!! fricken awesome movie.
Anywho theres many ways to SELL a story. im just glad ive been reminded of it point. jus need to get off my ass now
Ohabu Says:
February 19th, 2008, 9:19 am
Good point, made me think.
You know, I’ve been a reader for a while now, and recently I’ve felt that your articles hit me more than before. Feels like you are improving a lot now that you have more time to write. Very good work!
Goal Setting College Says:
February 19th, 2008, 9:35 am
Even though this is an excerpt from the excellent Teaching Sells report, but I’m sure we don’t mind another reminder of the message behind it.
Action.
Brian, I really liked the way you build up tension to the end of the article… :)
Cheers,
Ellesse
SD Says:
February 19th, 2008, 10:31 am
Loved this post! And notjust because it brought back memories of my purple haired days.
Josh Says:
February 19th, 2008, 11:55 am
Very insightful. I never really thought about how that famous three chord poster (”Here’s a chord, here’s another, and another. Go start a band”) was a self-help product!
-Josh
etavitom Says:
February 19th, 2008, 12:17 pm
Wow! That’s an incredible story…. Thanks for the inspiration and I’m sure to take some serious ACTION today! Best, Brad
Empress Juju Says:
February 19th, 2008, 12:42 pm
At first when I read this, I thought, “Yeah, cool, the Sex Pistols really put it out there. They were taking action, and that’s why they got so famous and helped changed rock & roll forever.”
But upon re-reading, I think you meant to say that the people taking action were the ones in attendance at the show, who saw ways to build from, be inspired by, or capitalize on what they had just seen & heard.
I’ve watched some people very close to me spinning their wheels for decades, attempting to become “successful.” These folks are in constant action, but it never seems to be the right action. Punk was a perfect storm of cultural, political, and economical conditions, and some very shrewd folks got pretty rich off of other people’s creative expression of their rage at having been ignored & marginalized, mostly in their own homes, in the communities they were born into.
Unfortunately, all too many of the artists never got what they really needed, because their inner peace would have killed the cash cow (as some people saw it). They’ve become legends, but they were never encouraged to learn how to give and receive love.
I’m so grateful to everyone (yourself included) who expresses themselves, and puts it out there for others to see, be inspired by, critique, or exploit. And I do believe that success of any kind is impossible without action. Action without prior consideration, though, is at best futile, and at worst, deadly.
Jason R Says:
February 19th, 2008, 12:49 pm
I feel sorry for the people that missed the point of this article. I’m sure some of the best ideas or products have come from people just taking action on what they came up with. Not just sitting around planning, analyizing, and worrying whether or not something will work.
It’s also nice to read about how something so (relatively) small, helped to fuel much bigger ideas and movements.
The post doesn’t exactly fit with what Leo usually writes, but that probably has to do with the fact that Leo didn’t write it!!! :)
Thanks Brian, I enjoyed it!!
Emma Says:
February 19th, 2008, 14:58 pm
New Order and Morrisey were some of my favorites, thanks for using such an interesting example to make a great point. I better go and actually do something now, instead of just reading about it. Thanks!
John Says:
February 19th, 2008, 15:36 pm
Have any of you gone to Brian Clark’s “Copyblogger”? It reminded me of a Frank Zappa song from “Studio Tan”, titled “The Adventures of Greggery Peccary”. You see Greggery works at a company called Big Swifty’s where they come up with the next trend, as the lyrics go ” At Big Swifty’s we all know you’ll go for any gimmick or gizmo. Wouldn’t you rather be involved in a series of colorful time-wasting trends!” That’s where this Brian Clark’s coming from, marketing the next trend. Sorry Brian, some of us are not “Only in it for the money”.
Brian Clark Says:
February 19th, 2008, 16:07 pm
>>Sorry Brian, some of us are not “Only in it for the money”.
Good for you, neither am I. I just happen to write about marketing (among other things).
youngtillidie Says:
February 19th, 2008, 16:51 pm
I also would have accepted: Effort
Action is fine and dandy but what’s the point if it’s half-assed.
project management Says:
February 19th, 2008, 16:57 pm
hmm. some people are overactive, and actualy scared. for them the five letter word for succes is: relax!
David R Marlborough Says:
February 19th, 2008, 17:06 pm
I was hoping more people get the reference to the movie, “24-Hour Party People.” Basically, the story in its narration is taken right from it. Good use of pop culture.
Action, yes. A close relative to the word CURIOSITY. If certain British doctors never asked “What is this fungus?” we wouldn’t today have penicillin, correct? ;-)
trickdonkey Says:
February 19th, 2008, 17:15 pm
how do you keep getting dugg????? GOD WHY
Chris Austria Says:
February 19th, 2008, 17:46 pm
Great ideas only become great when they are ACTED upon.
Just like what my wife always says, “stop talking about it and just do it.”
Michael Ott Says:
February 19th, 2008, 17:58 pm
For a second there I thought I was reading Tony Wilson’s monologue from ‘24 hour party people’ :-)
Nicely written by the way. Inspiring.
Pollmak Says:
February 19th, 2008, 18:08 pm
Actions do after all speak louder than words.
I have read and listened too many words, but I have only ever made progress on my gals and dreams through ACTION.
You want some thing,
Just do it!…….and don’t stop until it’s done.
Tanner Brockwell Says:
February 19th, 2008, 18:08 pm
a writer writes — right??? for a writer that means writing. the craft and task of wordsmithing.
I put ‘24 Hour Party People’ on my to see list. Thanks.
–tanner
Stumblebum Says:
February 19th, 2008, 18:19 pm
Ah, are you sure you don’t mean “attitude”? Anyone can take “action”–attitude is the ultimate determinant of how successful you will be (especially in light of the punk rock example you’ve cited).
Smarky Says:
February 19th, 2008, 18:49 pm
The six letter word that describes the sex pistols is:
Posers
Heimdall Says:
February 19th, 2008, 19:28 pm
Upon reading this article and the comments, the concept of “Right Action” (as part of the “Noble Eightfold Path” from Buddhism) comes to my mind. A “just do it” approach might be good for us when we are caught in lethargy, fear, doubt, procrastination, … to actually start moving. In the long term I believe it is important to not merely act, but also balance this action with other factors, and to place your steps also with foresight and wisdom. Not just any action, but appropriate, skillful action will do. :-)
Gold Cash Says:
February 19th, 2008, 20:41 pm
Experience is what defines successful people. Sure, some get lucky, but without action you will never gain experience.
Lorraine Says:
February 19th, 2008, 20:49 pm
Brian:
Thanks. As a procrastinator/perfectionist, I always benefit from being pushed into action.
“Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.” —Benjamin Disraeli
irspariah Says:
February 19th, 2008, 20:58 pm
Follow me, sheeple. Fucking morons!!
someone Says:
February 19th, 2008, 22:35 pm
I came here with a link from digg.com as I have a few times before, and as before, I’m disappointed. You don’t have a clue what zen really means. Like all spiritual teachings, Buddhism was co-opted and subverted by religious and political authorities from the get-go. At least most of those still paid lip service to its message of true love and universal connectedness. Trying to connect “right action” with your crass notion of success is nothing short of disgusting. If you can’t even question the validity of “writing about marketing”, you haven’t even taken the first step on the Noble Path.
Linz Says:
February 19th, 2008, 23:03 pm
Leo,
Please this is one too many guest posts, I feel as if Brian is just marketing his teaching sells stuff through your blog. Through the word action. Not fooled and would love to see a return to mostly posts by Leo!
Anyone else feel this way?
Leo Says:
February 19th, 2008, 23:32 pm
There have been a number of negative comments here, and while I appreciate different viewpoints, I plead with you guys to be civil and even welcoming to my guest posters!
@Linz: As I mentioned last week, I plan to run an extra guest post per week (2 instead of the usual 1 per week) for a couple weeks just to try to clear my backlog of guest posts. Some of the ones I have are already a couple months old. I still write most of the posts and will cut back to 1 per week in a week or two — until then, I appreciate your patience!
John Says:
February 20th, 2008, 0:03 am
Finally, two voices of reason! someone, I agree with you 100%! And Linz, I feel the same way you do! The logic behind this “action” post was like swiss cheese. It had holes all in it.
paige Says:
February 20th, 2008, 0:41 am
I still listen to all of these/those bands! Any of you? Most are still at it - most members are… Joy Division has 2 documentaries that just were shown in town! Morrissey was jsut here…
JD Says:
February 20th, 2008, 5:49 am
I agree — iterate more, plan less.
It’s easier to correct course if you’re actually moving.
Success builds momentum and failure gives us lessons.
To keep insight and action in perspective, I use a simple frame (I call it The Change Frame.) I simply check any advice whether it’s to:
1. change my thinking?
2. change my feeling?
3. change my action?
Sometimes the key is to change your thinking. Sometimes it’s about changing the approach or finding a better technique. Usually, though, I find most people are stuck at just taking action.
Flint Says:
February 20th, 2008, 7:58 am
Hi Leo and Brian.
I have to agree with John and Linz, the past couple of weeks have really felt guest-heavy. While I understand and appreciate your need to have a breather, I for one would prefer fewer posts than a flood of guest posts.
For the most part the guest posts are well written and have valuable lessons however they just don’t seem to ‘fit’ with the overall feel of Zen habits. If you’ll excuse a very negative (but heartfelt) comment, many of them feel like the authors are just trying to take advantage of your success more than trying to help your readers, whereas your posts have always seemed to be about helping first.
At the same time I have to say that while I am not nuts about the guest posts, I find some of the comments really unnecessarily rude. Rather say what you have to say tactfully and tastefully :)
FPM Says:
February 20th, 2008, 8:01 am
I agree ! I used to be a homeless rodeo clown but now I am a world class magician !
someone Says:
February 20th, 2008, 10:31 am
I had some time to think about this now, so here’s some more: Am I the only one who remembers that The Sex Pistols were never an amateur band that “made it” by being discovered by someone in the music business? Rather, Malcolm McLaren recruited them for his own purposes of making money from the “underground” fashion trends he was noticing. There was already an emerging backlash against the slick style of disco and rock super groups, and McLaren figured out how to ride its coattails. “Punk” music started in California garages in the sixties as rock’n'roll was being neutered by established media. The Pistols were all about image. Sid Vicious was just exploited for the supposed anti-establishment stance of his heroin addiction - he could barely play his bass and always had back-up at concerts, and it’s NOT him playing on any recordings. The band was about as “real” as The Monkees or Spinal Tap. It’s revisionist history at best to say they started the punk movement or opened doors for other bands. They were just another fashion statement and were barely taken seriously as artists. I remember reluctantly buying “Never Mind the Bollocks…” because it was something to annoy old people with. When I wanted music that I liked, though, it was Clash, Ramones, etc.
This website is good proof that if you want to teach any spiritual truths, make it so simple that it can’t be categorized or labeled, and do it anonymously to avoid a following that sees you as representing your words. It becomes religion way too easily, and then it’s worthless. If poor prince Siddartha only knew how his teachings have been corrupted.
It’s unfortunate that you call your blog “zen habits” since most of the stuff you promote has nothing to do with zen. In fact, the kind of action promoted here is pretty much what zen is telling us to avoid. Many will claim the right to define Zen Buddhism, but most would agree that its basic message is not about achieving goals in terms of traditional success, but transcending humanity itself by “going with the flow” and escaping the needs of your ego.
Lissa Says:
February 20th, 2008, 10:59 am
Leo, thanks for sharing content you find value in - whether it’s yours or not. Not every post rings my bells, guest or otherwise, but I appreciate your offering of anyway.
As far as ‘action’ goes, I see it as only part of the equation - an important part to be sure, but only part.
The other is this - and one of the disorienting misperceptions of authentic direction and ego-directed (or culture directed) objectives: whether or not you’re feel called or inspired to take action.
Now, it is true that we can feel both and then sit on it - no two ways about it. But otherwise, action for action’s sake is good for only one thing: so you can say you did.
It doesn’t mean action is taken in the right direction, for the right reasons, and from the right spirit.
To the critic who spoke about the inappropriate naming of your blog I have this to offer: the ego is - for a time - the way to Zen (or whatever you want to call it). ‘Escape’ is an interesting choice of word, but only ego wishes to escape, just to clarify. And transcendence doesn’t seek to transcend what is human but the limitations of seeing ourselves as nothing more than human.
Any path to understanding and awareness begins with simplification, honesty and spirit-oriented living. I find that here. The rest, provided the effort is honest and true, will take care of itself.
Beyond that, Leo thanks for the lessons beyond the posts themselves. As a new blogger/podcaster, I’m really grateful for your example as moderator of the occassional tribal uprising.
Tough to be authentic and walk your own way when you’re told to do what’s become expected of you, huh?
Open English Says:
February 20th, 2008, 15:58 pm
Great post, it really puts things into perspective. You have to take action to get somewhere, even if you don’t know what might come of it.
No regrets, right?
Smarky Says:
February 20th, 2008, 16:45 pm
Punk and Zen heh they just don’t work together.
But i’m very much into the music scene and i’m very much interested in the ideas of it tied in with personal development, this article doesn’t merely scratch the surface. More please.
G-Star Says:
February 20th, 2008, 18:51 pm
I, for one, think that the value in this post is not in reading into the depths of the story but to extract the meaning out of it. Action is an as important as simplicity and organization in achieving your goals. Without action we are left watching “Giligin’s Island” reruns and contemplating our collective navels.
While I too was looking for reading about Zen Buddhism when I found this blog, it caught my attention, and two years later it is still one of my daily visits.
Leo, keep up the good work and as said before thank you for sharing content you think is valuable even if it is not your own. I think that it is great to hear from others you approve of. Those of us who have been here a while will keep coming back hopping to hear from you again.
Matt Says:
February 20th, 2008, 19:02 pm
Love it. As a punk fan I’d agree with a lot of this article. Its all about taking action and making your ideals a reality.
Some punk rock lyrics for ya from Rancid:
“Do you know where the power lies? It starts and ends with you.”
Stephanie Says:
February 20th, 2008, 20:15 pm
As members of the audience, Morrissey and the other famous (or shall I say infamous) could have just gone home and said “great show” or “that was a bloody waste of time”. Instead they were inspired, and to the extent that they all did their own thing. Look at how different Joy Division is compared to the Buzzcocks, for instance. Taking inspiration, and making it your own plus the required “action” can make a good product.
I thought this was a terrific post - great way to look at something from a different view point. Thanks!
JM Says:
February 20th, 2008, 21:45 pm
I thought that the post was well written and it certainly resonated with me because I could certainly use more “action”. However, I am really surprised by some of the negative comments. It seems that a few of the regular readers are taking a less than Zen approach in their reactions here.
.. from the Wikipedia entry for Zen
“emphasis on mindful acceptance of the present moment, spontaneous action, and letting go of self-conscious, judgemental thinking”
If the post has no relevance for you, accept that it may have for others and move on. Don’t ask the blog owner to only post articles that meet your approval.
… just my 2 cents.
Sharon Says:
February 21st, 2008, 2:07 am
Not that I am a fan of Punk, but I get the message. I also understand that someone else put this article together. Hi. I am new here, so I am not particularly familiar with Leo or Brian. But thanks for sharing the article. It reminds me of how much my life has been about action these last few years. It is definitely a necessary ingredient. Thanks again.
Brian Clark Says:
February 21st, 2008, 11:30 am
>>Punk and Zen heh they just don’t work together.
Read Hardcore Zen by Brad Warner and tell me if you’ve changed your mind. He’s a former punk who is now a zen buddhist priest.
nicole shoe Says:
February 21st, 2008, 17:37 pm
i LOVE this blog. thanks for making my day.
paige Says:
February 21st, 2008, 20:46 pm
“924 Gilman Street” club in Berkeley CA put out some great 80s and 90s Bay Area punk rock - all ages club.
Mr. T Experience, Sweet Baby, Green Day, Operation Ivy, Rancid, Hi-fives, Pinhead Gunpowder…
Welcome to the 924 Gilman Street Project Website
The 924 Gilman Street Project a.k.a the ‘Alternative Music Foundation’, is an all-ages, non-profit, collectively organized music and performance venue. We do shows on Fridays, Saturdays, and occasionally on Sundays. It is located in North Berkeley, about 1 1/2 miles from the North Berkeley BART station, at the corner of 8th St. and Gilman. All shows are $5 or more, with a $2 membership card (that is good for a year). We strive to provide a violence, alcohol and drug-free environment. We will not book or support racist, misogynist, or homophobic bands or performances.
The Gilman Book Is Out! It’s entitled “924 Gilman: The Story So Far.” Compiled by Brian Edge and published by MAXIMUMROCKNROLL, it is available here at the club during shows for $15, or you can mailorder it $20 ppd in the USA, $25 ppd to the World.
MAXIMUMROCKNROLL
PO BOX 460760
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94146-0760
or send inquiries to distro@maximumrocknroll.com
Brian Clark Says:
February 21st, 2008, 20:58 pm
>>In fact, the kind of action promoted here is pretty much what zen is telling us to avoid.
You’re making a value judgment, which means either you don’t understand Zen or are not yet good at practicing it.
If it’s the latter, don’t worry… neither am I. But I’m trying. :-)
Jaden Says:
February 21st, 2008, 21:08 pm
After so many fantastic posts, this one was surprisingly odd. First it sounded like a synopsis of the music documentary: 24 Hour Party People. Then it just ends abruptly with advice to take action. The example did not sufficiently explain to prove the point.
With the point to take action, I agree. Action is absolutely the difference between the successful and the dreamers.
In what one chooses to take action is a matter of opinion and preference. One does not have to like punk rock or even orchestral. Success can be found in any genre or any new ground-breaking or even old thing. Action is one serious deciding factor, but it doesn’t matter in what.
Look at coffee or burgers… I mean how many more chains do we really need? Yet new ones open all the time to find success because, yes, they take action, but not because it is something cutting edge, rather because they have a business model that works.
Does action = Success? Yes, it can.
Does jumping on the bandwagon of something new equal success? Definitely not!
There are millions of copycats (musicians, writers, filmmakers, painters) who spend their life in action to achieve no success. Action alone is not enough.
A successful marketing and business plan (whether it be a clever name or setting up a world tour or whatever) is far more important than trend-spotting and copycatting, whether it is new or not, in any field. Action must be joined with intelligent planning and smart business unions.
“The Future is Unwritten” is an excellent music documentary that illustrates these points. It is about The Clash (also in the same time as the Sex Pistols) with details of their manager who brought them such huge world acclaim.
When I was in college, I worked in a nightclub. The first time Korn played there, the only people in the huge place were a handful of my heavy metal friends who were always there hanging out with me and could dig on the new sound that until this point had never been heard (heavy bass with screaming angry vocals contrasted with gentle whispering vocals).
Several months later, Korn played the exact same show to a full house spilling over with 2,000 + people. Why? Because they did a publicity stunt with the local radio station announcing a cheap $3 entrance. Their song and this ad ran every day, many times a day for a month. Next thing I knew, Korn became a huge success.
A band called Far who played the same sound and shows with Korn, with debatably more talent, fell into obscurity. Why? No marketing.
Who else came through? No Doubt, Marilyn Manson, and many more who also started out with no following. What catapulted them to great success? Not necessarily their action of playing music, but rather great gimmicks, good managers and marketing angles.
It is often the people behind the scenes working their magick who make the creative intoxicated attention-thriving front-men look so good. Success and fame are not accidents, they come from calculated plans created by hard-working driven intelligent business-minded people who take their winnings to the bank.
Seeker Says:
February 22nd, 2008, 0:05 am
I keep repeating the work “Action” to myself as I am researching and beginning a new business. Thanks for the encouragement.
Michael Klusek Says:
February 24th, 2008, 3:09 am
You could add being at the right place at the right time …. and being aware enough to know it and therefore take action.
FP64 Says:
February 24th, 2008, 12:57 pm
Beautiful.
Besplatne Stvari, Muzika, Igre Says:
March 1st, 2008, 8:29 am
i LOVE this blog. thanks for making my day.
Kenny Says:
March 1st, 2008, 18:31 pm
I really can not stand all these anarchist punk rock bands. I might add the Sex Pistols were MTV, media conglomerates. Can’t get more capitalist than that. (Not that i have a problem with capitalism)
Pommy Says:
March 5th, 2008, 20:57 pm
Great post and story that brought back great memories of my teens growing in listening to the Smiths, Buzzcocks , Joy Division and the rest of the bands formed after watching the pistols perform.
What a loss to the music world if it would have been if the IRA decided to bomb Manchester 30 years earlier.
Foreclosure Bank Owned Real Estate Says:
March 11th, 2008, 17:27 pm
Often times the successful man is the one who persevered in the face of failure.
I leave you with two quotes:
“Any coward can fight a battle when he’s sure of winning; but give me the man who has the pluck to fight when he’s sure of losing.”
- George Eliot
“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.”
- Thomas Edison
ko Says:
March 11th, 2008, 19:28 pm
Organize and execute.
@Pommy
Yeah, because the IRA were known for bombing concert halls in Manchester? This sounds like a completely irrational hypothetic statement. Are people in England just as diluted about the IRA as Americans are about Bin Laden?
fuja Says:
June 6th, 2008, 15:51 pm
zakkum,şebnem ferah,hayko çepkin,gerisi yalan………………………
Bob Says:
June 14th, 2008, 1:26 am
If you are still reading this, then you missed the point about the concept of ‘Action’
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