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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Entertainment
Peter McGoran

1980s punk scene in Belfast captured in BBC footage

Gigs and live events are still off the cards in Northern Ireland at the moment, but as we wait for their imminent return, we're diving through some classic footage of what life was like for those who dedicated their styles to their favourite music genres.

It's well known that punk had a massive impact in Belfast, with thousands of people seeing it as an alternative to the politics and violence of the troubles.

40 years on from punk's origins, we took a look back at BBC Northern Ireland footage, which depicts the punk scene in Belfast in the late 70s and early 80s.

The clip below begins by showing different perspectives of Belfast from people living in other parts of the UK.

It then takes a look at the context of the late 70s and 80s in Northern Ireland - in particular, the violence that was ever-present at the time.

After this, we're given an insight into how young people from various backgrounds, all forged friendships and shared a common interest in the city's music scene - in particular punk music.

The clip shows how punk music gave many in the city an outlet to dance and socialise with other like-minded people.

One person interviewed in the clip says: "Before I got into punk I was running about with these skinners. It was kind of boring. You'd go out every Sunday, Thursday night, go to a stupid disco, sit down and do the same ting. When you're a punk you do different things from other people. It's something...something different."

Watch the full clip here (it may take a moment to load!)

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