Punk is the raw, rebellious genre that emerged in the mid-1970s as a reaction to the perceived excesses of mainstream rock. With its fast-paced, aggressive sound and DIY ethos, punk was spearheaded by bands like The Ramones, Sex Pistols, and The Clash, who brought a gritty, anti-establishment attitude to their music. Punk's influence has been profound, spawning countless subgenres and inspiring generations of musicians. Today, it remains a vibrant and influential genre, with bands like Green Day and The Offspring keeping its rebellious spirit alive, and a thriving underground scene continuing to push its boundaries.