DIY

DIY, or D.I.Y., is an acronym for “do it yourself.” It has been used to describe the individualistic ethos behind punk music. It also refers to making and distributing creative works as well as building community spaces outside of the mainstream, often in lieu of legitimate channels. DIY can refer specifically to the post-punk sub-genre originating in the late 1970’s, consisting of U.K.-based bands such as Desperate Bicycles and Television Personalities, who shirked major record labels and professional recording standards, making and distributing albums on their own.