The Damned are a pioneering English punk rock band formed in London in 1976. They are widely regarded as one of the first punk bands from the United Kingdom, notable for releasing the first UK punk single, "New Rose," in 1976, ahead of contemporaries like the Sex Pistols and The Clash. The original lineup featured vocalist Dave Vanian, guitarist Brian James, bassist Captain Sensible, and drummer Rat Scabies. The Damned quickly gained attention for their high-energy performances and darkly flamboyant image, setting them apart from other punk acts of the time. Their debut album, *Damned Damned Damned*, released in 1977, became one of the earliest full-length punk records from the UK and helped establish their place in punk history. Over the years, The Damned evolved musically, incorporating elements of gothic rock, psychedelia, and pop, particularly evident in later albums like *Machine Gun Etiquette* and *Phantasmagoria*. Despite numerous lineup changes, internal conflicts, and hiatuses, the band maintained a loyal fanbase and continued to tour and record new material. Dave Vanian remained a consistent presence in the band, and Captain Sensible rejoined after periods of absence. The Damned are credited with influencing a wide range of artists across punk, goth, and alternative rock scenes. Their legacy as innovators and survivors of the punk era has cemented their status as one of the most important bands in British rock history.