Buzzcocks

The Profile

Buzzcocks are an English punk band formed in Bolton in 1976 by Pete Shelley and Howard Devoto. Blending punk velocity with pop melodies, they became key figures of the Manchester scene, releasing classic singles like Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've?) and albums such as Another Music in a Different Kitchen, Love Bites, and A Different Kind of Tension. They reformed in 1989 and continued after Shelley’s death in 2018, led by Steve Diggle.

Formed in Bolton, Greater Manchester (1976) by Pete Shelley and Howard Devoto; influential UK punk/pop‑punk pioneers; signature songs include “Ever Fallen in Love (With Someone You Shouldn't've?)”, “What Do I Get?”, and “Harmony in My Head”.

Reviews praise Buzzcocks’ razor-sharp melodies welded to punk urgency, spotlighting Love Bites and their live bite at Hammersmith. Writers note non-political lyrics—sex, drugs, youthful angst—delivered with craft and speed. Pete Shelley’s distinctive voice and Steve Diggle’s drive recur as strengths. The band’s influence on UK guitar music is repeatedly underlined.