description The Big Takeover Overview
The Big Takeover was a New York City-based zine established by Jack Rabid in 1980. It documented the burgeoning punk and indie rock scenes of that era, particularly focusing on bands emerging from the city’s underground music venues. As one of the longest-running independent music publications in the United States, it provided crucial coverage to artists and enthusiasts interested in alternative music during the 1980s. Its readership included musicians, journalists, and fans deeply engaged with the burgeoning new wave and punk movements.
insights Why this score
The Big Takeover ranks #19 of 222 in the Zine ranking, behind Slash, ahead of Search and Destroy.
Long-running punk and indie fanzine with deep interviews and loyal readership; respected durability, less radical historical impact than founding zines.
help The Big Takeover FAQ
Is The Big Takeover still published?
The Big Takeover continued far beyond its beginnings as a New York punk fanzine and developed into a long-running independent music magazine. Its publishing activity should not be described only in the past tense without checking the current issue schedule.
Who founded The Big Takeover?
Jack Rabid founded the publication in New York in 1980. He remained closely identified with its editorial voice, extensive interviews, and independent approach to music criticism.
What music does The Big Takeover cover?
Its roots are in punk and post-punk, but its coverage expanded to indie rock and other guitar-based underground music. Bands associated with its coverage range from early punk acts to later alternative artists.
Is The Big Takeover connected to the Bad Brains song?
Yes, its title comes from Big Takeover by Washington, D.C. hardcore band Bad Brains. The name reflects the zine's origins in the punk scene rather than a corporate takeover theme.
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