Deathrock is a music genre and subculture that emerged from the post-punk scenes of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Often considered a "missing link" between punk and goth , Deathrock is a fusion of the two movements, combining the dark, atmospheric sounds of early gothic rock with the raw energy and DIY ethos of punk. The aesthetic is defined by a theatrical and macabre style inspired by classic horror films, B-movies, and surrealism.

Deathrock developed concurrently in the United States and the United Kingdom. In the US, the scene was centered in Los Angeles and grew out of the hardcore punk movement. Bands like Christian Death (led by Rozz Williams), 45 Grave, and Kommunity FK played at clubs like the Anti-Club, developing a darker, more horror-influenced version of punk .

Simultaneously in the UK, a parallel scene was forming around London's Batcave nightclub, which opened in 1982 and became the birthplace of the British goth subculture. Bands like Specimen and Alien Sex Fiend performed there, helping to define the sound and style. In Northern England, particularly in industrial cities like Leeds, the subculture took root in a climate of economic instability and youth unemployment under Margaret Thatcher's government. The grim atmosphere of cities "blackened with exhaust fumes," combined with the climate of fear created by the "Yorkshire Ripper" serial killer, contributed to the development of a distinctly dark and doomy scene.

Deathrock fashion is one of the most visually distinct styles within the alternative subcultures, blending punk 's DIY ethos with gothic theatricality. The most iconic feature is the "deathhawk," a teased and backcombed variation of the punk mohawk, often with longer side pieces.

Clothing is typically layered and heavily customized. Ripped fishnets are a staple, worn as tights, shirts, or fashioned into "spiderweb" sleeves on jackets and tops. The aesthetic favors a mix of leather, lace, and band t-shirts, often decorated with spooky or occult motifs. Makeup is dramatic and exaggerated for all genders, featuring pale white foundation, heavy black eyeliner, and dark lipstick. The look is androgynous, spooky, and theatrical, with a strong emphasis on self-creation and individuality.

Deathrock music is characterized by its fusion of punk rock's driving rhythms and raw energy, with influences from Glamrock, and the evocation of gothic and horror imagery within the lyrics and instrumentation, giving a dark and macabre sound that preserves the confrontational quality of punk rock. The sound is often defined by repetitive, sinister guitar riffs, prominent basslines, and tribal-style drumming. Vocals are theatrical and expressive, with lyrics that focus on morbid, spooky, and often campy themes drawn from horror movies, surrealism, and death. It is a harder and often faster style than the more romantic or ethereal branches of gothic rock.