Complete List Of The Dead Boys Band Members

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The Dead Boys were formed in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1976. Known for their aggressive style and raw energy, the band quickly became a staple of the New York City punk scene after relocating there. The Dead Boys released two studio albums, Young, Loud and Snotty (1977) and We Have Come for Your Children (1978), before disbanding in 1979. They briefly reunited in the late 1980s and have had several reunion tours since. Despite their relatively short initial run, the Dead Boys are considered one of the most influential punk bands of their era.

Stiv Bators

Stiv Bators, born Steven John Bator, was the lead vocalist for the Dead Boys from their formation in 1976 until their initial breakup in 1979. Bators was known for his wild stage antics and charismatic presence. He contributed to both of the band’s studio albums, Young, Loud and Snotty and We Have Come for Your Children, co-writing many of their iconic songs like “Sonic Reducer” and “Ain’t It Fun.” After the Dead Boys disbanded, Bators pursued a solo career and later joined the Lords of the New Church. He remained active in the music scene until his death in 1990.

Cheetah Chrome

Cheetah Chrome, born Gene O’Connor, was the lead guitarist for the Dead Boys from their inception in 1976. Chrome’s aggressive guitar style was a defining feature of the band’s sound. He played on both Young, Loud and Snotty and We Have Come for Your Children, co-writing many of the band’s songs. After the Dead Boys, Chrome played with several other punk bands, including Rocket from the Tombs and Batusis, and released solo work. He has remained a significant figure in the punk rock community.

Jimmy Zero

Jimmy Zero, born William Wilden, was the rhythm guitarist for the Dead Boys. He joined the band at its formation in 1976 and played on both of their studio albums. Zero co-wrote many of the band’s songs, contributing to their raw and energetic sound. Following the breakup of the Dead Boys, Zero continued to play music and was involved in various reunion projects with the band. His contributions to the punk genre remain influential.

Jeff Magnum

Jeff Magnum, born Jeff Halmagy, was the bassist for the Dead Boys from their formation in 1976. Magnum played on the band’s two studio albums and was integral to their powerful live performances. After the band’s initial breakup, Magnum played with other punk acts and participated in reunion shows. His work with the Dead Boys remains a key part of his musical legacy.

Johnny Blitz

Johnny Blitz, born John Madansky, was the drummer for the Dead Boys. He joined the band in 1976 and played on both Young, Loud and Snotty and We Have Come for Your Children. Blitz’s powerful drumming was a cornerstone of the band’s sound. After the Dead Boys disbanded, Blitz continued to play music and took part in various Dead Boys reunions. His energetic style has left a lasting impact on punk drumming.

Replacements and Reunion Members

Throughout the years, several musicians have joined the Dead Boys for various reunion tours and performances.

Frank Secich

Frank Secich joined the Dead Boys for their reunion tours in the late 1980s. A veteran musician, Secich played bass and contributed to the band’s live shows, helping to reintroduce their music to new audiences.

Jason Kottwitz

Jason Kottwitz joined the Dead Boys as a guitarist for their more recent reunion tours. He helped fill the gap left by original members who could not participate and contributed to keeping the band’s legacy alive.

Jake Hout

Jake Hout took over vocal duties for the Dead Boys’ reunion tours in the 2010s. His energetic performances paid tribute to the late Stiv Bators and helped bring the band’s music to a new generation of fans.

Ricky Rat

Ricky Rat joined the Dead Boys as a guitarist for their reunion tours in the 2010s. His involvement helped to keep the band’s music and legacy alive, filling in the roles of the original members who were unable to participate. Ricky Rat, a veteran of the punk rock scene, brought his experience and energy to the band’s live performances, ensuring that the Dead Boys’ raw and rebellious sound continued to resonate with audiences. Before joining the Dead Boys, Ricky Rat was known for his work with the Detroit-based punk band the Trash Brats, further cementing his reputation in the punk rock community.