Grief for Brian James: Legend of British Punk History Died!

Grief for Brian James: Legend of British Punk History Died!

The founder and guitarist of the influential British punk band The Damned, Brian James, died on March 6, 2025 in Seaford, East Sussex, England. James was a central figure of the British punk rock and founded the band in 1976 together with singer Dave Vanian, bassist Raymond "Captain Sensible" Burns and drummer Christopher "Rat Scabies" Millar. With the publication of her first single "New Rose" in October 1976 and the debut album "Damned Damned Damned" in 1977, the band set standards in music history, as well as soapCentral.com reported. James was the main songwriter of this early works and shaped the distinctive sound of the band.

After the second album, James the Damned left the band due to inconsistencies in the creative process and the inadequate administration of the band. He devoted himself to new musical projects, including the Goth-Rock band Lords of the New Church in the 1980s. During his career, he worked with prominent artists and published several solo albums. His return to The Damned in 2022 for special appearances with the original line -up represented his last big appearance. Former bandmate Captain expressed sensitive regret about the loss and praised James as "gentleman", as he said: "It is terrible that our friend left ours, but I prefer to celebrate his life ... and what had to celebrate Brian James," reported Vol.at .

an important inheritance

James leaves not only musical success, but also a rich history within the punk movement. Although his departure from the band was characterized by tensions, James recognized the need for creative freedom and finally followed many other exciting projects. The planned reunion of the band will unfortunately never become a reality, which increases the grief for this loss. Brian James will be remembered as one of the most influential pioneers of the punk rock and his music will continue to drive generations of fans.