Minor Threat was a hardcore punk band from Washington, D.C., active from 1980 to 1983. Founded by vocalist Ian MacKaye and drummer Jeff Nelson, the group also included Brian Baker, Lyle Preslar, and later Steve Hansgen. Although their time together was brief, Minor Threat left a lasting impact on the American punk scene, shaping its sound and popularizing the DIY ethic. Their song Straight Edge inspired a movement advocating for a clean lifestyle. All of their music was released on Dischord Records, the label run by MacKaye and Nelson. Releases like the Minor Threat EP and Out of Step are regarded as essential works of the hardcore genre.