X-Ray Spex, Poly Styrene, and the DIY Revolution of British Punk

This episode dives into X‑Ray Spex and their frontwoman Poly Styrene, examining how a small London band combined feminist politics, sharp lyricism, and an underground production ethic to challenge gender norms, consumer culture, and industry expectations. From the cramped rehearsal space that birthed ‘Oh Bondage Up Yours!’ to the grassroots distribution network that pressed singles in a basement and mailed them worldwide, we uncover how their DIY infrastructure helped define punk’s political voice and influenced later feminist movements like riot grrrl.

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