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if Joy Divison would've be seen as they are if not for New Order?
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I think JD were pretty secure in a place of reverence of the indie/punk annals by the sake of their music alone. However, I'm sure New Order did help to propagate the legend beyond the status of being that one original British or Manchester band. Remember, Curtis killed himself before their first tour of the US and easily could remained an English band (rather than international) if New Order weren't there.
That said, I was curiously introduced to New Order through Joy Division rather than the other way around. I think that speaks to the power of the original music.
TL;DR - Joy Division were on the verge of establishing themselves beyond the UK until Ian opted out. Fortunately, New Order kept the band relevant.