‘70s Punk Icons Have Major Announcement: ‘Never Thought We’d Make It This Far’ originally appeared on Parade.
When you hear the word “punk,” who do you think of? Some might imagine the spiky hair snarl of the Sex Pistols or the bowl cuts and leather jackets of The Ramones. Some might think of Green Day, Alice Bag, Sick of It All, Minor Threat, Bad Brains or Avril Lavigne. After all, punk has many faces and sounds—but all these bands all owe a debt of gratitude to The Damned.
The Damned are credited as the first punk band in the U.K. to release a single (“New Rose”) and a studio album (Damned Damned Damned beat out Never Mind the Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols). These pioneers have done it all since forming in London in 1976. And on June 23, ahead of their 50th anniversary, the group made a special announcement.
“Half a century on and who’d of thought The Damned would still be upright and breathing?” The Damned joked in a message to fans before telling them they’re playing a special 50th anniversary show at London’s world-famous Wembley Arena on April 11, 2026.
“We have shared some tragic losses along the way but like a finely tuned engine The Damned still has the power and finesse to excite, entertain and accelerate into our 50th year…” wrote the group.
“We haven’t made up the set list as yet, but with 50 years of catalogue to choose from, only the best songs from our checkered history will be performed, and with the passion and commitment all good music lovers deserve – you know we won’t disappoint.”
The night will also include performances by rock duo The Courettes, Peter Hook (of Joy Division and New Order) and Marc Almond (Soft Cell).
Those who have already signed up for The Damned’s mailing list will get access to the pre-sale that starts Wednesday, June 25, at 10 am BST / 5 am EST.
The Damned’s lineup for this anniversary show will feature original members Dave Vanian (vocals), Captain Sensible (guitar), and Rat Scabies (drums), along with longtime members Paul Gray (bass) and Monty Oxymoron (keys). Founding member Brian Jamesdied on March 6 at the age of 70.
Related: Classic Rock Legend, 76, Makes Bold Statement About Rumored Feud with Iconic Punk Band
‘70s Punk Icons Have Major Announcement: ‘Never Thought We’d Make It This Far’ first appeared on Parade on Jun 23, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 23, 2025, where it first appeared.
