Shock rock

Shock rock is an umbrella term for bands in many different music genres which combine rock music with elements of shock val

Shock rock is an umbrella term for bands in many different music genres which combine rock music with elements of shock value in a stage performance involving acts of theatricality, sex and/or violence which are designed to push the limits of decency.

Screamin' Jay Hawkins was arguably the first shock rocker. After the success of his 1956 hit "I Put a Spell on You", Hawkins began a stage show where he'd emerge from a coffin, sing to a skull and set off smoke bombs, among other gimmicks. Screaming Lord Sutch came along a few years later, with stage name inspired by Hawkins, and a similar performance routine.