Keywords Drew Champion, punk rock, music history, authenticity, political expression, DC punk scene, cancel culture, music industry, personal experiences, musical influences, punk rock, music industry, cancel culture, intersectionality, women in music, punk ethos, music controversies, future of punk, rock and roll, DIY music Summary In this engaging conversation, Drew Champion, lead singer of The Split Seconds, shares his journey through the punk rock scene, discussing his musical influences, the evolution of punk rock, and the impact of the DC punk scene. He reflects on the authenticity of punk music, the shift in its ethos over the years, and the rise of cancel culture within the genre. Drew also shares personal anecdotes about navigating political correctness in the music industry and the challenges faced by artists today. In this conversation, Drew Champion and Travis Myers delve into the current state of punk rock, discussing its evolution, the impact of cancel culture, and the role of women in the genre. They explore the changing dynamics of the music industry, the controversies surrounding punk rock, and the challenges new bands face today. The discussion highlights the importance of dialogue over cancellation and the need for a return to the core spirit of punk rock. Takeaways Drew Champion is the lead singer and guitarist for The Split Seconds. He was influenced by punk rock from a young age, particularly by bands like Blink-182 and The Living End. The DC punk scene had a significant impact on his musical development and the DIY ethic. Punk rock has evolved over the years, with a shift towards more political expression. The rise of cancel culture has changed the dynamics within the punk rock community. Authenticity in music is crucial, and many modern bands lack that edge. Drew emphasizes the importance of self-expression in punk rock. He shares personal experiences of being blackballed for his views in the punk scene. The conversation touches on the difference between art and propaganda in music. Drew believes that punk rock should remain a space for diverse opinions and self-expression. Punk rock is experiencing a significant shift in its ethos. The role of women in punk rock is evolving and gaining recognition. Cancel culture has impacted the punk rock scene negatively. The business side of being in a band is often overlooked. New bands face challenges in a changing music landscape. Controversies can arise from differing views within the punk community. The future of punk rock is uncertain but holds potential for revival. Intersectionality has created divisions within the punk rock scene. The spirit of punk rock is about challenging norms and fostering unity. Dialogue is essential for progress in the punk rock community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Drew Champion 02:54 The Evolution of Punk Rock and Personal Influences 05:58 The Impact of the DC Punk Scene 09:07 Authenticity in Punk Rock 12:04 Subgenres and Diversity in Punk Rock 14:56 Political Themes in Punk Rock 18:04 The Shift in Punk Rock Ethos 21:04 Art vs. Propaganda in Music 23:54 The Role of Free Speech in Punk Rock 29:21 Confronting Racial Prejudice in Punk Culture 31:15 The Shift in Punk Rock Ethos 34:46 The Rise of Cancel Culture in Music 39:14 The Impact of Political Correctness on Punk Rock 48:39 The Evolution of Female Fronted Bands 57:04 Navigating the Modern Punk Scene 01:00:20 The War on Women Controversy 01:05:54 The Changing Ethos of Punk Rock 01:11:55 Intersectionality and Its Impact on Punk 01:17:54 The Future of Punk Rock 01:24:04 Personal Reflections on Ideology and Family Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.