Garage Rock is the raw, unpolished genre that emerged from the American rock scene in the 1960s, characterized by its gritty guitar riffs, energetic performances, and DIY ethos. Pioneered by bands like The Sonics, The Stooges, and The Kinks, garage rock brought a rebellious, back-to-basics approach to rock music. Its raw, high-energy sound influenced punk and alternative rock, making it a foundational genre. Today, garage rock continues to thrive, with bands like The White Stripes and The Black Keys keeping its spirit alive and bringing its gritty, infectious energy to new audiences.