Harley Flanagan: Punk, Warhol, Webster Hall & the Rise of NYC Hardcore

On this episode of Lipps Service, Scott sits down with hardcore punk icon Harley Flanagan, founder of Cro Mags, for a raw and wide ranging conversation on Lipps Service. From Harley’s chaotic early life and growing up in 1970s New York City to encounters with Allen Ginsberg, Andy Warhol, and Anthony Bourdain, the interview traces the cultural collision that shaped one of hardcore’s most influential figures. Harley dives into his first musical memories, discovering punk rock and The Clash, starting out as a drummer, and surviving the Lower East Side scene as it exploded. He reflects on early bands like The Stimulators, the formation of Cro Mags, and the possibility of reunions, while also discussing new Cro Mags music. The episode closes with Harley’s top five bass players and top five metal records, making this a must-listen deep dive into punk, metal, and New York underground history.
Timestamps: 
0:00:46 - Wired for chaos 
00:01:45 - Allen Ginsberg 
00:04:00 - The documentary 
00:07:14 - Anthony Bourdain
00:11:06 - Growing up in New York
00:17:18 - Warhol! 
00:18:19 - Introduction to punk rock 
00:22:37- First musical memory, The Clash 
00:24:00 - On being a drummer first 
00:24:31 - The Lower East Side in the 70s 
00:36:00 - The stimulators 
00:37:15 - Early recordings 
00:39:25 - Having a hit out for Harley
00:44:12 - The formation of the Cro Mags 
00:47:30 - The downfalls of the band 
00:48:00 - Possible reunion?
00:49:51 - The night at Webster hall
1:00:21 - New cro mags music 
1:01:52 - Top 5 bass players 
1:06:22 - Top 5 metal records

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