Artist

Television

1973-1978, 1991-1993, 2001-2023·New York City

Formed in 1973, Television gave CBGB its first stage—Tom Verlaine and Richard Lloyd nailed it together from scrap wood in early 1974—and then used it to argue that punk could be technically ambitious. Verlaine, born Thomas Miller, took his stage name from the French symbolist poet; his guitar of choice was a Fender Jazzmaster, its clean tone letting every note ring out undistorted.

The full story is in CBGB's 70s Punk.

At a glance

Active
1973–1978, 1991–1993, 2001–2023
From
New York City, USA
Records in the issues
1 (1977), 1 of them a Start here pick
Original label
Elektra
Listening guide track
“I Love Lucy”

Listen

In the CBGB's 70s Punk listening guide: “I Love Lucy”

Spotify

In the issues

  • CBGB's 70s Punk
    Principal · 1973-1982 · Members

    CBGB's 70s Punk is a music scene from New York City, USA, 1973–1982. Its principal artists include Ramones, Television, Talking Heads and Patti Smith. This issue covers 10 essential albums and 15 dated events.

Records

Family tree

Bands that shared members with Television, and who.

  • Blondie1974–
    Fred Smith
  • Richard Hell & the Voidoids1976–1983
    Richard Hell
  • The Neon Boys1972–1973
    Richard Hell, Tom Verlaine

Places