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**Don Zientara and Howard Wuelfing: Key Figures in the Washington D.C. Punk Music Scene**

Don Zientara and Howard Wuelfing have made significant contributions to the Washington, D.C. underground and punk music scene. Each left a unique mark in their respective roles.

**Don Zientara: The Man Behind Inner Ear Studios**

Don Zientara is best known as the founder and long-time operator of Inner Ear Studios. It is a cornerstone of the D.C. music scene. He played a pivotal role in capturing the raw energy and DIY spirit of iconic D.C. bands like Minor Threat, Fugazi, Bad Brains, and Rites of Spring.

His work with these influential artists has had a lasting impact on punk music. Many of these artists are associated with the renowned Dischord Records label.

In addition to his production work, Zientara is also a talented musician. He was a member of the band **Underheaven**, where he collaborated with Howard Wuelfing.

**Howard Wuelfing: The Multifaceted Music Industry Veteran**

Howard Wuelfing is a multifaceted figure in the D.C. music landscape, serving as a music journalist, publicist, and musician. He has written for prestigious publications, including Creem and The Village Voice. His writing provides insightful coverage of the punk scene.

Wuelfing was instrumental in publishing influential D.C.-based fanzines, such as **$Descenes**, which focused on local punk and new wave bands. **Discords** offered national coverage of music events and trends. His recent publication, *Descenes and Discords: An Anthology*, compiles the best of these fanzines.

As an active musician, Howard Wuelfing has been involved in several D.C.-area bands, including The Slickee Boys, Half Japanese, and The Nurses. He also worked with **Underheaven** alongside Don Zientara. His contributions to the music industry continued as he worked in public relations for Columbia Records. He later founded his own firm, Howlin’ Wuelf Media.

Together, Don Zientara and Howard Wuelfing played vital roles in shaping the Washington D.C. punk music scene, making them influential figures whose legacies continue to resonate within the music community.