#349 of 500
· Rolling Stone
“MC5 at #349 with Kick Out the Jams (1969). Past 300, every pick is an argument worth having. This is rock that doesn't just hold up — it still sounds essential. The original pressing belongs in any serious collection.”
MC5 (Motor City 5) were a revolutionary Detroit rock band formed in 1964, led by Rob Tyner on vocals, Wayne Kramer and Fred "Sonic" Smith on guitars, Michael Davis on bass, and Dennis Thompson on drums. Rising to prominence in the late 1960s, they became iconic figures of the counterculture movement, known for their politically charged lyrics, explosive live performances, and close association with radical activist John Sinclair. Their 1969 debut album "Kick Out the Jams," recorded live at Detroit's Grande Ballroom, featured the now-infamous title track and established them as pioneers of proto-punk and heavy rock. Despite internal conflicts and legal troubles, they released "High Time" in 1971 before disbanding in 1972. MC5's raw energy, guitar-driven sound, and unflinching social commentary influenced generations of punk and alternative rock musicians.
Style
MC5 pioneered proto-punk and heavy rock with aggressive guitar work, powerful vocals, and high-octane energy. Their sound combined blues-based rock with radical political messaging and avant-garde experimental tendencies.
Significance
MC5 is essential to vinyl collectors interested in punk history, 1960s counterculture, and the evolution of heavy rock. Their raw, unpolished live recordings and fearless approach to both music and politics made them foundational influences on punk rock, with original pressings of "Kick Out the Jams" highly sought after by collectors.
Kick Out the Jams was recorded live at the Grande Ballroom in Detroit on October 30-31, 1968, capturing the MC5 at their explosive peak. The band—Rob Tyner, Wayne Kramer, Fred Smith, Michael Davis, and Dennis Thompson—was known for their high-energy performances and revolutionary politics. Producer Jon Landau documented the raw power of their live show, and the album showcases their proto-punk energy and blues-rock foundation. The opening track became iconic with Tyner's famous explicit exhortation to the audience, which would later cause controversy with radio stations and retailers. The album was a collaborative effort with Elektra Records, though the label would later distance itself from the band's radical politics and explicit content.
Historical Context
Released in February 1969, Kick Out the Jams arrived during a period of intense social upheaval in America. The MC5 emerged from Detroit's turbulent music scene, aligned with radical politics and the White Panther Party, making them symbols of rock's potential as a revolutionary force. The album received critical acclaim for its raw energy and uncompromising approach, though mainstream radio rejected it due to Tyner's opening profanity. Elektra Records famously withdrew support and destroyed copies, citing objections from distributors and stores. Despite this censorship, the album became influential in punk and garage rock circles, establishing the MC5 as visionary rebels.
Pressing Notes
The original 1969 Elektra pressing (EKS-74042) featured the explicit opening with Tyner's uncensored vocals, though some pressings were issued with a dubbed-over clean version. Later pressings and reissues have varied in their inclusion of the original intro. Collectors should seek early Elektra stereo pressings for the uncompromised version. The album has been reissued multiple times on vinyl, including audiophile pressings by labels like Rhino and Third Man Records. Condition varies significantly for original 1969 copies; finding clean, unplayed versions commands premium prices among serious collectors.
Fun House
The Stooges
Raw, proto-punk energy with Iggy Pop's primal vocals that shares MC5's garage rock aggression and Detroit roots.
Paranoid
Black Sabbath
Heavy, distorted riffs and dark sonic intensity that matches the visceral power and rebellious spirit of MC5's approach.
New York Dolls
The New York Dolls
Swaggering hard rock with glam edge and working-class attitude that captures the same revolutionary rock spirit.
Own this record? Track it in your collection.