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When people talk about the birth of British punk, names like the Sex Pistols and The Clash dominate the conversation. Yet it was The Damned who made history first, releasing “New Rose” in October 76—the very first UK punk single—before anyone else had committed the movement to vinyl. At the heart of that landmark recording was drummer Rat Scabies, whose explosive playing and irrepressible personality helped define one of the most influential bands of the era.
In this episode of A Breath of Fresh Air, Rat Scabies proves that behind one of rock’s most outrageous stage names is an intelligent, reflective and surprisingly philosophical musician whose passion for music has never dimmed.
Falling in Love with the Drums
Born Christopher Millar, Rat knew almost from childhood that music would shape his life. Listening to jazz on the radio at just eight years old, he became captivated by the sound of drum solos and decided then and there that he wanted to be a drummer. Without formal lessons, YouTube tutorials or online resources, he taught himself by listening carefully to records and working out how his heroes played. Rather than copying them exactly, that process naturally led him to develop a distinctive style of his own.
Rat recalls working a succession of jobs—from building sites to insurance sales and even cleaning toilets—not because he wanted a career, but simply to pay the rent while pursuing his dream of becoming a professional musician. It was a determination that would soon change his life forever.
The Birth of The Damned
Everything fell into place when Rat met guitarist Brian James. Their musical chemistry was immediate, and together they began assembling the group that would become The Damned. Singer Dave Vanian and bassist Captain Sensible completed a line-up unlike anything Britain had seen before. Contrary to popular belief, Rat explains that they never set out to become “punk.” They were simply determined to make music that sounded different from everything dominating the charts. While the media eventually embraced the label, the band simply focused on writing songs they wanted to hear, unconcerned with fashion or commercial expectations.
That Name!
Rat also shares the surprisingly ordinary story behind his unforgettable stage name. What began as an off-the-cuff nickname during early rehearsals soon became one of the most recognisable names in rock music—a name he now admits feels more natural than his own.
More Than Noise and Rebellion
Rat challenges many of the clichés surrounding punk music. He argues that the greatest punk bands weren’t simply angry or confrontational—they were exceptional songwriters. He believes many later bands misunderstood what made the original movement special, copying the aggression while overlooking the creativity that fuelled punk’s earliest success.
The Band Evolves
That philosophy explains why The Damned were never afraid to evolve. From the raw energy of Damned Damned Damned to ambitious releases like The Black Album and later gothic classics including Phantasmagoria, the band continually reinvented itself while refusing to be boxed into a single genre.
Walking Away... and Finding His Way Back
Despite helping create one of Britain’s most important rock bands, success didn’t immediately translate into financial security. Rat speaks candidly about sleeping on friends’ couches, earning very little despite sold-out shows and eventually becoming disillusioned enough to leave the band after their second album.
Still Breaking the Rules
Today, Rat Scabies remains every bit as curious and unconventional as he ever was. He speaks warmly about reconnecting with his former bandmates. Rat Scabies’ greatest contribution wasn’t simply helping invent British punk—it was proving that great music comes from originality, fearlessness and the courage to ignore expectations. It’s been nearly fifty years since The Damned rewrote the rule book.
Look out for The Damned as they tour in cities globally. You can check their schedule here
