What Goes Around? What Goes Around?

S6E3 with John Robb

Jul 1, 2026 · 57m

Summary

Host Eamon Murtagh welcomes back punk icon Johnny Robb to discuss his new memoir, *Punk Rock Ruined My Life*. Robb shares anecdotes from his early days in Blackpool, the DIY ethos of the punk scene, and his pivotal role in coining terms like "Britpop" and "grunge." The conversation covers his discovery of Nirvana, the importance of fanzines, and how music shaped his identity outside major cultural hubs.

Topics discussed

Introduction and Johnny Robb's new memoir The rise of Nirvana and the grunge explosion Growing up in Blackpool and early music influences The DIY ethos of punk and forming The Membranes The Beatles, Yellow Submarine, and British pop culture Rejection of 'coolness' and embracing all music Punk fashion, DIY style, and ear piercing Sex Pistols, Anarchy in the UK, and fanzine culture Music journalism career and the decline of venues Kraftwerk's influence on electronic and techno music Dalek, creativity, and lifelong curiosity in music Closing remarks and final thoughts
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