(I'm) Stranded (song)

"(I'm) Stranded" is the debut single by the Australian punk rock band The Saints, released in September 1976. Widely considered a seminal recording in the history of punk rock, it is recognized for its raw energy, aggressive sound, and unconventional song structure compared to mainstream rock of the time.

The song was written by Ed Kuepper and Chris Bailey, and recorded in Brisbane, Australia. The lyrics, dealing with feelings of isolation and being trapped, resonate with the disaffection felt by many young people in the mid-1970s. The raw production, coupled with Bailey's distinctive vocals and Kuepper's distorted guitar work, created a sound that was both confrontational and exciting.

Despite being initially ignored by Australian radio stations, "I'm Stranded" gained attention in the UK after copies of the single were sent to influential music publications like Sounds and NME. The positive reviews led to a recording contract with EMI Records and a re-release of the single, which subsequently charted in the UK.

The success of "I'm Stranded" helped to pave the way for other Australian punk bands and contributed to the global spread of the punk rock movement. The song remains a classic of the genre and is frequently cited as an influence by musicians across a range of genres. Its impact on popular music is undeniable, solidifying The Saints' place as pioneers of punk rock.