Wire, a British band emerging from the punk scene, has maintained a reputation for constant musical evolution since their inception. Their early albums, including Pink Flag (1977), Chairs Missing (1978), and 154 (1979), showcased their ability to reinvent themselves rapidly. This willingness to experiment and evolve has influenced genres such as hardcore punk, post-punk, and goth, as well as artists like Minor Threat and Guided by Voices. Wire's art school roots at Watford Art College in 1976 led to the formation of the band, which has undergone multiple hiatuses and lineup changes over the years.

After regrouping in the '80s, Wire embraced a more stripped-down, electronic sound with albums like The Ideal Copy (1987) and A Bell Is a Cup...Until It Is Struck (1988). Their unconventional approach to live recordings and studio experimentation continued with releases such as It's Beginning to & Back Again (1989) and Manscape (1990). Throughout their career, Wire has maintained a restless creativity, culminating in their 16th album, Silver/Lead (2017), which marked their 40th anniversary. The band's influence spans generations and genres, solidifying their place as innovators in the music industry.