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Misfits

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Band Timeline

1977

Formation of the Misfits and Early Performances

The Misfits were formed in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey by Glenn Danzig. The band's name was inspired by Marilyn Monroe's final film, 'The Misfits'. Initially, the group consisted of Danzig on vocals and piano, Manny Martinez on drums, and Jerry Caiafa (later Jerry Only) on bass. After several rehearsals and the addition of their first guitarist, the band played their first show at the iconic CBGB club in New York City. These early performances helped establish their presence in the burgeoning punk scene.
1978-1980

Early Recordings and Development of Horror Punk

During this period, the Misfits developed their unique blend of punk rock infused with horror film themes and imagery, pioneering what would become the horror punk subgenre. They released several singles and EPs through their own label, Plan 9. The band went through numerous lineup changes but maintained their distinct style. Their music gained a cult following, with Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only as the consistent members driving the band's creative direction.
1982

Release of 'Walk Among Us' Album

'Walk Among Us' marked the Misfits' first full-length album and was a significant milestone for the band. Recorded predominantly in 1982, the album showcased a raw, hardcore punk sound that was influential in the early 1980s punk landscape. It included fan-favorite tracks and solidified the Misfits as key figures in punk rock. The addition of Doyle as guitarist contributed to the album's aggressive and distinctive sound.
1983

Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood and Disbandment

In 1983, the Misfits released 'Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood', an album that displayed a transition towards a heavier, more aggressive hardcore punk and early thrash metal style. Despite the musical achievements, internal tensions and differing ambitions led to the band's split later that year. Glenn Danzig left to form other projects including Samhain and eventually his eponymous band, Danzig. Jerry Only and Doyle later engaged in legal battles to retain rights to the Misfits' name.
1984-1994

Post-breakup Influence and Legal Battles

Though disbanded, the Misfits' music grew in influence during the 1980s and early 1990s, inspiring numerous punk, metal, and alternative bands worldwide. Several compilations and unreleased recordings were issued, keeping the band’s legacy alive. Meanwhile, Jerry Only and Doyle pursued legal action to gain control over the band’s name and catalog, culminating in them regaining the rights to perform and record as the Misfits by the mid-1990s.
1995

Reformation and New Lineup

In 1995, Jerry Only and Doyle reformed the Misfits with new members including singer Michale Graves and drummer Dr. Chud. This lineup marked a stylistic shift towards a heavier metal sound while retaining punk roots. The new incarnation revitalized the band’s presence and introduced them to a new generation of fans. The reformed band embarked on extensive tours and prepared new material for recording.
1997

Release of 'American Psycho' Album

The Misfits released 'American Psycho' in 1997, their first album of new material in over a decade. The album featured a heavier and more polished sound compared to earlier work, incorporating elements of metal while maintaining horror punk themes. It was well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing the band’s ability to evolve while honoring their roots. This release solidified the 90s era Misfits lineup as a significant chapter in the band’s history.
1999

Release of 'Famous Monsters' Album and Continued Success

Continuing their momentum, the Misfits released 'Famous Monsters' in 1999, further exploring their metal-influenced punk style. The album was supported by touring and helped maintain the band’s revitalized stature. However, despite success, tensions within the lineup and changes in the music industry led to challenges that culminated in the band’s dissolution in 2000.
2000-2003

Transition and Covers Album Release

After the 1999-2000 dissolution of the lineup with Michale Graves, Jerry Only took over lead vocals and reorganized the band with new members including Dez Cadena and Marky Ramone. This version embarked on tours commemorating the band’s legacy. In 2003, the Misfits released 'Project 1950', an album consisting entirely of covers of 1950s and early 1960s rock and roll songs, showcasing the band’s influences and breadth. The album was part of a strategy to maintain relevance and reach wider audiences.
2005-2009

Lineup Changes and New Material

In 2005, drummer Marky Ramone was replaced by Robo, a former Misfits drummer from the early 80s. This period saw moderate activity with touring and recording, including the release of the single 'Land of the Dead' in 2009. Despite not releasing a full studio album during this period, the band maintained their profile in the punk and metal scenes, engaging with fans through live shows and short releases.
2011

Release of 'The Devil's Rain' Album

The Misfits released 'The Devil's Rain' in October 2011, their first album of new original material in over a decade. The lineup featured Jerry Only, Dez Cadena, and drummer Eric 'Chupacabra' Arce. The album combined classic horror punk with modern metal influences and was noted for its energy and cohesiveness. 'The Devil's Rain' represented the band's ongoing commitment to producing new music while respecting their storied past.
2015

Lineup Changes and Expansion

In 2015, Dez Cadena took a break from music after a cancer diagnosis, leading to his replacement by Jerry Caiafa II ('Jerry Other'), the son of Jerry Only. Marc Rizzo, known for his work with Soulfly, also joined as a guitarist temporarily. This expanded lineup brought fresh dynamics while continuing to honor the band's legacy. These changes symbolized the ongoing evolution and adaptation of the Misfits into the modern era.
2016

Historic Original Lineup Reunion

In 2016, the Misfits' classic original lineup reunited for the first time in 33 years for two headlining shows at Riot Fest, featuring Glenn Danzig, Jerry Only, and Doyle alongside Dave Lombardo on drums and Acey Slade as a second guitarist. This reunion was highly anticipated by fans and marked a significant moment in punk history, with the original band's legacy celebrated. The Original Misfits lineup has since performed sporadically, marking a rare and special chapter in the band's ongoing story.

Albums

misfits_1st_album
Walk Among Us
13 tracks
1982
misfits_2nd_album
Earth A.D. / Wolfs Blood
9 tracks
1983
misfits_3rd_album
At the Ritz NYC 12/81
20 tracks
1989
misfits_4th_album
American Psycho
17 tracks
1997
misfits_5th_album
Static Age
19 tracks
1997
misfits_6th_album
Famous Monsters
18 tracks
1999
misfits_7th_album
Project 1950
10 tracks
2003
misfits_8th_album
Fiend Club Lounge
11 tracks
2005
misfits_9th_album
The Devil's Rain
16 tracks
2011
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Dez Cadena

2001

Jerry Only

N/A

ROBO

N/A

Todd Swalla

N/A

Marky Ramone

N/A

Additional

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Joey Image

1978
1980

Drums (drum set)

Glenn Danzig

1977
1983

Bobby Steele

1978
1980

Guitar

Franché Coma

1977
1978

Dr. Chud

1995
2000

Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein

1980
1983

Eric "Goat" Arce

2010
2016

Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein

1995
2002

Michale Graves

1998
2000

Michale Graves

1995
1998

Story of Misfits

The Misfits: A Legacy of Horror Punk

The Misfits, hailing from the swampy New Jersey backwaters of Lodi, are more than just a punk band. They're the undisputed godfathers of horror punk, a genre they birthed by fusing raw punk energy with the macabre imagery and atmosphere of classic horror flicks.

It all started in 1977, with the vision of Glenn Danzig, a man whose songwriting and onstage presence oozed gothic darkness. He, alongside the bassist Jerry Only, formed the core of the band, weathering countless lineup changes over the next six years.

Their early years were a whirlwind of blistering EPs and singles, laying the groundwork for their landmark albums. With Doyle, Jerry Only's brother, joining on guitar, the Misfits released Walk Among Us (1982) and Earth A.D./Wolfs Blood (1983). These albums, with their raw, chaotic energy and spooky lyrics, became instant classics, cementing the Misfits' place as pioneers of early-80s hardcore punk.

Despite their meteoric rise, the Misfits dissolved in 1983. Glenn Danzig went on to create his own brand of gothic rock with Samhain and Danzig, leaving a legacy that continues to influence generations of musicians.

But the Misfits weren't finished. Their music transcended their initial hardcore punk audience, finding new life in the hands of bands like Metallica, Guns N' Roses, Marilyn Manson, and Green Day, proving their influence across multiple genres.

After a legal battle with Danzig, Jerry Only and Doyle reclaimed the rights to the Misfits name. In 1995, they resurrected the band with new vocalist Michale Graves, and the Misfits once again took to the stage, their undead legacy alive and kicking.

The Misfits are more than a band. They're a cultural force, a genre-defining entity, and a testament to the enduring power of music to terrify, inspire, and unite.

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