Hitsville UK - The State Of Independence & DIY

The Clash sang 'They say true talent will always emerge in time, when lightening hits Small Wonder, Its Fast Rough Factory Trade'. From 1977 the UK experienced a massive creative upsurge in music served by a growing number of independent labels. Fashion, journalism and design thrived unshackled and female artists were at the forefront.

We explore the period with Gina Birch, from The Raincoats, Richard Boon, former manager of the Buzzcocks and founder of record label New Hormones and Geoff Travis, founder of Rough Trade Records.