The Accident That Invented Distortion: How a Broken Amp Made Rock & Roll Dangerous episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 3, 2026 · 9 MIN

The Accident That Invented Distortion: How a Broken Amp Made Rock & Roll Dangerous

from The Second Track · host Podcaster

In 1961, a busted amplifier on a train platform should have ruined everything. Instead, it created the sound that would define rebellion itself. We trace how Link Wray's punctured speaker cone accidentally birthed the power chord and changed music forever—from punk to metal to grunge. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In 1961, a busted amplifier on a train platform should have ruined everything. Instead, it created the sound that would define rebellion itself. We trace how Link Wray's punctured speaker cone accidentally birthed the power chord and changed music forever—from punk to metal to grunge.

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The Accident That Invented Distortion: How a Broken Amp Made Rock & Roll Dangerous

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In 1961, a busted amplifier on a train platform should have ruined everything. Instead, it created the sound that would define rebellion itself. We trace how Link Wray's punctured speaker cone accidentally birthed the power chord and changed music...

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