"Punk was defined by an attitude rather than a musical style"

David Byrne's statement that "Punk was defined by a mindset instead of a musical style" highlights the significance of the cultural and social context in which punk emerged. While punk music definitely has specific sonic and visual qualities that distinguish it from other categories, Byrne is recommending that it was the anti-authoritarian, anti-establishment values of punk that truly defined the motion. This mindset was identified by a rejection of mainstream concepts and worths, an accept of DIY aesthetics and non-conformity, and a fierce dedication to individuality and self-expression. By foregrounding punk's mindset over its musical design, Byrne is recognizing the much deeper cultural significance of punk as a movement that sought to challenge mainstream worths and speak reality to power.