Episode 10: DC’s DIY Influence with Chris Richards of Q and Not U

The music of Washington DC has long been driven by the DIY or do-it-yourself ethos. Artists from all genres have continually introduced unique contributions to DC’s music community on their own terms, which in turn have inspired scenes across the United States. One of the most influential elements is DC’s punk scene. Emerging in the late 1970’s, it  was ignited by bands such as Bad Brains and the Slickee Boys, followed in the 80’s by Minor Threat, Iron Cross, Youth Brigade, Scream and others. The scene evolved into post hardcore, with bands like Fugazi and Jawbox bringing in a wider pallet of influences while retaining hardcore punk’s intensity. By the late 1990’s, DC was a hub for innovative post-hardcore music that remained inspired and driven by Dischord Records. One of the most unique and inventive bands in the Dischord catalog is Q and Not U. In this episode, I discuss DC’s musical influence with my guest, Christopher Richards of Q and Not U. 

Check out Chris’ music and wiritings here:

https://thefutureisourstomake.substack.com/

https://qandnotu.bandcamp.com/

https://academyfightsong.bandcamp.com/album/purple-blaze

https://tkecho.bandcamp.com/

https://dischord.com/band/q-and-not-u