As a result, their extensive discography is more stylistically varied than many of their punk rock contemporaries.Black Flag was and remains well-respected within the punk subculture, primarily for their tireless promotion of an autonomous DIY punk ethic and aesthetic.After Morris's departure, Black Flag recruited fan Ron Reyes as singer.With Reyes, Black Flag recorded the Jealous Again 12-inch EP and appeared in the film The Decline of Western Civilization. In 1980, Reyes quit Black Flag mid-performance at the Fleetwood in Redondo Beach because of escalating violence.Dukowski acted as the group's tour manager even after he no longer performed with them, and he was likely as important as Ginn in establishing the band's DIY punk ethic and demanding work ethic.

As well as being central to the creation of hardcore punk, they were innovators in the first wave of American West Coast punk rock and are considered a key influence on punk subculture in the United States and abroad.

Ginn was tireless and profoundly disciplined; however, he was also rather quiet.

Dukowski's intelligent, fast-talking, high-energy persona attracted significant attention, and he was often Black Flag's spokesman to the press.

They are often regarded as pioneers in the movement of underground do-it-yourself record labels that flourished among 1980s punk rock bands.

Through constant touring throughout the United States and Canada, and occasionally Europe, Black Flag established a dedicated cult following.