Complete List Of The Dictators Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Stefan Bollmann, Attribution, via Wikimedia Commons

THE DICTATORS STUDIO ALBUMS

The Dictators Go Girl Crazy!

Released March 1975

The Dictators Go Girl Crazy! is the debut album by American proto-punk band The Dictators. Released by Epic Records in March 1975, the album is a tongue-in-cheek blend of punk rock, hard rock, and humor. Its irreverent tone and mix of raw energy and wit set it apart from the mainstream rock of the era, positioning the band as pioneers in the burgeoning punk movement. Though not initially a commercial success, the album became a cult favorite and is now considered a foundational work in the punk genre.

The album was produced by Sandy Pearlman and Murray Krugman, known for their work with Blue Öyster Cult. It features Ross “The Boss” Friedman on guitars, Andy Shernoff on bass and keyboards, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, and Stu Boy King on drums. Vocalist Handsome Dick Manitoba’s theatrical and humorous delivery adds a unique flair to the record. Tracks like “Teengenerate” and “Master Race Rock” exemplify the band’s sarcastic take on youth culture and rock ‘n’ roll bravado.

While critically misunderstood upon release, The Dictators Go Girl Crazy! earned retrospective acclaim for its influence on punk and alternative rock. Its combination of satirical lyrics, high-energy performances, and garage rock aesthetics made it a touchstone for later bands in the punk and hardcore scenes.

Track Listing:

“The Next Big Thing” – Andy Shernoff – 4:18
“I Got You Babe” – Sonny Bono – 4:01
“Back to Africa” – Andy Shernoff – 3:20
“Master Race Rock” – Andy Shernoff – 4:15
“Teengenerate” – Andy Shernoff – 3:30
“California Sun” – Henry Glover, Morris Levy – 2:59
“Two Tub Man” – Andy Shernoff – 4:07
“Weekend” – Andy Shernoff – 4:00
“(I Live For) Cars and Girls” – Andy Shernoff – 3:55

Manifest Destiny

Released July 1977

Manifest Destiny is the second studio album by American rock band The Dictators. Released in July 1977 by Asylum Records, the album marked a stylistic evolution for the band, incorporating more hard rock and arena rock influences while maintaining their trademark irreverence. The record captures the band’s efforts to broaden their sound, moving beyond the raw punk energy of their debut, The Dictators Go Girl Crazy!, while still retaining their satirical edge.

Produced by Murray Krugman and Sandy Pearlman, the album features Ross “The Boss” Friedman on lead guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass, keyboards, and backing vocals, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, Stu Boy King on drums, and Handsome Dick Manitoba providing lead vocals. Tracks like “Exposed” and “Science Gone Too Far” reflect a polished, harder-edged rock aesthetic, while songs such as “Sleepin’ with the TV On” retain the band’s signature wit and humor.

Although Manifest Destiny did not achieve significant commercial success, it garnered respect in the rock and punk communities for its adventurous sound and sharp songwriting. The album remains a critical stepping stone in The Dictators’ career, highlighting their ability to balance humor and rock ‘n’ roll bravado.

Track Listing:

“Exposed” – Andy Shernoff – 4:30
“Heartache” – Andy Shernoff – 3:27
“Sleepin’ with the TV On” – Andy Shernoff – 4:18
“Disease” – Andy Shernoff – 4:06
“Hey Boys” – Andy Shernoff – 4:05
“Steppin’ Out” – Andy Shernoff – 4:12
“Science Gone Too Far” – Andy Shernoff – 3:31
“Young, Fast, Scientific” – Andy Shernoff – 3:27
“Search and Destroy” (cover of The Stooges) – Iggy Pop, James Williamson – 3:25

Bloodbrothers

Released June 1978

Bloodbrothers, the third studio album by The Dictators, marked a return to the band’s raw energy and unapologetic attitude. Released in June 1978 by Asylum Records, the album was a focused effort to recapture the punch of their debut while refining their songwriting and production. Featuring a blend of punk rock, hard rock, and tongue-in-cheek humor, Bloodbrothers solidified the band’s place in the punk and rock scenes, even as they struggled for mainstream commercial success.

Produced by Murray Krugman and Sandy Pearlman, the album highlights the lineup of Handsome Dick Manitoba on lead vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman on lead guitar, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass, keyboards, and backing vocals, and Richie Teeter on drums. Tracks such as “Faster and Louder” and “Stay with Me” encapsulate the band’s raw power and knack for catchy hooks, while “Baby Let’s Twist” showcases their ability to mix humor with rock ‘n’ roll grit. Manitoba’s larger-than-life persona shines throughout, adding a distinct flavor to the album.

Though Bloodbrothers was not a major commercial hit, it received positive reviews for its high-energy performances and sharp songwriting. Tracks like “Stay with Me” became staples of the band’s live shows and fan favorites, cementing the album’s legacy as a cult classic in the punk and hard rock canon.

Track Listing:

“Faster and Louder” – Andy Shernoff, Ross Friedman – 2:52
“Baby Let’s Twist” – Andy Shernoff – 3:58
“No Tomorrow” – Andy Shernoff – 2:55
“Minnesota Strip” – Andy Shernoff – 3:29
“Stay with Me” – Andy Shernoff – 3:39
“I Stand Tall” – Andy Shernoff – 3:45
“Borneo Jimmy” – Andy Shernoff – 3:41
“What It Is” – Andy Shernoff – 3:07
“Slow Death” – Cyril Jordan, Roy Loney – 4:02

…And You? – Manitoba’s Wild Kingdom

Released 1990

…And You? is the debut and only album by Manitoba’s Wild Kingdom, a project formed by former members of The Dictators. Released in 1990 through MCA Records, the album blends punk rock energy with hard rock bravado, presenting a high-octane collection of songs filled with attitude and sharp humor. The record served as a continuation of The Dictators’ legacy, reuniting Handsome Dick Manitoba, Ross “The Boss” Friedman, and Andy Shernoff while injecting a harder-edged rock sound reflective of the era.

The album was produced by Andy Shernoff, who also played bass and provided backing vocals. Ross “The Boss” Friedman handled guitar duties, delivering blistering riffs and solos, while Handsome Dick Manitoba commanded the album with his charismatic and gritty vocal style. J.P. “Thunderbolt” Patterson played drums, providing the tight, driving rhythms that powered the record. Tracks like “The Party Starts Now!!” and “New York, New York” embody the album’s defiant, celebratory tone, combining fast-paced rock with witty lyrics.

…And You? received critical acclaim in underground rock circles for its unapologetic approach and energetic performances. Though it didn’t achieve widespread commercial success, the album became a cult favorite, showcasing the enduring chemistry of its core members and leaving a lasting impression on fans of punk and hard rock.

Track Listing:

“The Party Starts Now!!” – Andy Shernoff – 3:03
“Haircut and Attitude” – Andy Shernoff – 3:17
“New York, New York” – Andy Shernoff – 3:33
“D.W.I.” – Andy Shernoff – 3:05
“Speedball” – Andy Shernoff – 2:57
“I Want You Tonight” – Andy Shernoff – 3:05
“Had It Coming” – Andy Shernoff – 2:55
“Prototype” – Andy Shernoff – 3:13
“The Perfect High” – Andy Shernoff – 3:16

D.F.F.D.

Released April 16, 2001

D.F.F.D. (short for Dictators Forever Forever Dictators) marked a triumphant return for The Dictators, serving as their first studio album in 23 years. Released on April 16, 2001, through Dictators MultiMedia and Norton Records, the album reasserted the band’s status as pioneers of punk rock and hard rock fusion. With its sharp songwriting, hard-driving energy, and trademark humor, D.F.F.D. stands as a testament to the band’s enduring relevance and commitment to their rock ‘n’ roll ethos.

Produced by the band themselves, the lineup featured Handsome Dick Manitoba on lead vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman on guitar, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass, keyboards, and backing vocals, and J.P. “Thunderbolt” Patterson on drums. The album offered a mix of punk rock anthems, hard rock swagger, and satirical wit. Tracks like “Who Will Save Rock and Roll?” and “Pussy and Money” demonstrated their knack for blending biting social commentary with driving melodies, while songs such as “The Moronic Inferno” showcased their love for high-energy rock.

Critics praised D.F.F.D. for its vibrant sound and refusal to compromise its punk roots. The album was lauded for its tight musicianship and sharp lyrics, resonating with long-time fans while introducing the band’s legacy to a new generation.

Track Listing:

“Who Will Save Rock and Roll?” – Andy Shernoff – 3:22
“I Am Right!” – Andy Shernoff – 3:07
“Pussy and Money” – Andy Shernoff – 2:37
“The Savage Beat” – Andy Shernoff – 3:42
“It’s Alright” – Andy Shernoff – 3:09
“What’s Up With That?” – Andy Shernoff – 2:30
“The Moronic Inferno” – Andy Shernoff – 3:25
“Burn Baby Burn!!” – Andy Shernoff – 3:25
“In the Presence of a New God” – Andy Shernoff – 2:20
“Avenue A” – Andy Shernoff – 2:44
“Channel Surfing” – Andy Shernoff – 0:53
“Jim Gordon Blues” – Andy Shernoff – 2:49

The Dictators

Released August 25, 2022

The Dictators, the self-titled album by the legendary punk rock pioneers, marked a triumphant return to the studio for the band after years of inactivity. Released on August 25, 2022, through Red Menace Records, this album reaffirmed the band’s legacy as one of the original forces in punk and hard rock. The Dictators serves as both a nod to their roots and a step forward, blending their iconic humor, raw energy, and no-nonsense rock ‘n’ roll.

Produced by the band themselves, the album features a slightly revamped lineup, with original members Ross “The Boss” Friedman on guitar, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, and Albert Bouchard (formerly of Blue Öyster Cult) joining as the drummer. Vocalist and frontman Handsome Dick Manitoba did not return for this project, leaving the band to explore new dynamics while maintaining their core sound. Andy Shernoff, the band’s longtime bassist and songwriter, played a critical role in shaping the album’s direction. Tracks like “Let’s Get the Band Back Together” and “New York Rocker” encapsulate their enduring wit and passion for the genre.

Critics lauded The Dictators for its high-energy tracks and sharp songwriting, noting that the band had not lost its edge. The album appealed to both long-time fans and new listeners, offering a fresh take on their signature sound while staying true to the rebellious spirit that defined their early work.

Track Listing:

“Let’s Get the Band Back Together” – Andy Shernoff – 3:30
“New York Rocker” – Andy Shernoff – 3:12
“Ventilator Blues” – Andy Shernoff – 3:25
“Just Call Me Pathetic” – Andy Shernoff – 2:57
“Rockin’ in the USA” – Andy Shernoff – 3:18
“Born to Be Loud” – Andy Shernoff – 3:20
“Take Back the Night” – Andy Shernoff – 3:15
“Manhattan Mayhem” – Andy Shernoff – 2:55
“Street Punk Blues” – Andy Shernoff – 3:10

THE DICTATORS LIVE ALBUMS

Fuk ‘Em If They Can’t Take a Joke*

Released 1981

Fu*k ‘Em If They Can’t Take a Joke is a live album by The Dictators, showcasing their raw and unfiltered energy in a concert setting. Released in 1981 by ROIR Records, the album is a high-octane blend of punk rock, garage rock, and humor that captures the band’s irreverent spirit and dynamic stage presence. Known for their sardonic lyrics and explosive performances, The Dictators solidified their cult status with this release.

The album features Handsome Dick Manitoba on vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman on guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass and backing vocals, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, and Richie Teeter on drums. The live setlist includes a mix of fan favorites, covers, and high-energy renditions of their studio tracks, such as “Next Big Thing” and “Two Tub Man.” The band’s cover of The Flamin’ Groovies’ “Slow Death” and their rendition of “Search and Destroy” by The Stooges add to the album’s raw, rebellious charm.

Fu*k ‘Em If They Can’t Take a Joke received acclaim for its authentic capture of the band’s live performance, celebrating their unfiltered rock ‘n’ roll ethos. The album became a favorite among fans and remains a defining example of The Dictators’ prowess as a live act.

Track Listing:

“Next Big Thing” – Andy Shernoff – 3:30
“Science Gone Too Far” – Andy Shernoff – 3:50
“Weekend” – Andy Shernoff – 3:55
“Rock and Roll Made a Man Out of Me” – Andy Shernoff – 3:40
“Two Tub Man” – Andy Shernoff – 4:20
“The Minnesota Strip” – Andy Shernoff – 3:15
“Master Race Rock” – Andy Shernoff – 4:10
“Slow Death” – Cyril Jordan, Roy Loney – 4:25
“Search and Destroy” – Iggy Pop, James Williamson – 3:50

Released 2015

Live Rochester NY, July ’77 is a live album by The Dictators, offering fans a time capsule of the band’s high-energy performance during their peak era. Released in 2015 through Norton Records, this album captures a concert recorded in July 1977 in Rochester, New York. The show took place during the tour supporting their second studio album, Manifest Destiny. This live recording showcases The Dictators’ raw punk energy, razor-sharp humor, and undeniable musical chemistry.

The lineup for this performance featured Handsome Dick Manitoba on lead vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman delivering blistering guitar work, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass and backing vocals, and Richie Teeter anchoring the performance on drums. The setlist is a thrilling mix of tracks from their first two albums, Go Girl Crazy! and Manifest Destiny, as well as spirited covers, including their fan-favorite rendition of The Stooges’ “Search and Destroy.”

The album received acclaim from long-time fans and punk rock enthusiasts for its authentic capture of the band’s live energy. The raw sound quality adds to the album’s charm, making it a must-listen for those who appreciate the grit and intensity of 1970s punk rock.

Track Listing:

“Science Gone Too Far” – Andy Shernoff – 3:42
“The Next Big Thing” – Andy Shernoff – 3:30
“Two Tub Man” – Andy Shernoff – 4:18
“Weekend” – Andy Shernoff – 3:54
“Rock and Roll Made a Man Out of Me” – Andy Shernoff – 3:39
“Master Race Rock” – Andy Shernoff – 4:15
“Search and Destroy” – Iggy Pop, James Williamson – 3:55

Viva Dictators

Released July 27, 2005

Viva Dictators captures The Dictators in their element—on stage, delivering high-energy performances filled with punk rock swagger and hard rock precision. Released on July 27, 2005, by Escapi Music, this live album features recordings from their 2004 world tour, showcasing the band’s timeless appeal and irreverent humor. As a celebration of their enduring legacy, the album presents re-energized renditions of classics spanning their entire career.

The album features the lineup of Handsome Dick Manitoba on lead vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman on lead guitar, Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass and backing vocals, and J.P. “Thunderbolt” Patterson on drums. Viva Dictators delivers powerful live versions of fan-favorite tracks like “Who Will Save Rock and Roll?” and “Next Big Thing,” along with their signature anthem, “Master Race Rock.” Each track crackles with energy, cementing The Dictators’ reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts in punk rock history.

Critics and fans alike praised Viva Dictators for its raw energy and sharp musicianship. The album captures the band’s ability to maintain their iconic sound and stage presence decades after their initial rise to fame, offering a must-hear experience for both long-time fans and newcomers.

Track Listing:

“Who Will Save Rock and Roll?” – Andy Shernoff – 3:22
“Next Big Thing” – Andy Shernoff – 3:30
“I Am Right!” – Andy Shernoff – 3:07
“Pussy and Money” – Andy Shernoff – 2:37
“Minnesota Strip” – Andy Shernoff – 3:29
“Baby Let’s Twist” – Andy Shernoff – 3:58
“Stay with Me” – Andy Shernoff – 3:39
“Haircut and Attitude” – Andy Shernoff – 3:17
“Who Will Save Rock and Roll? (Reprise)” – Andy Shernoff – 3:22
“Master Race Rock” – Andy Shernoff – 4:15

Extended Plays

The Next Big Thing EP

Released 1993

The Next Big Thing EP by The Dictators is a short but impactful collection that revisits the band’s classic punk rock roots. Released in 1993 through Norton Records, the EP serves as both a celebration of their legacy and a showcase of their enduring influence in the punk and hard rock scenes. Featuring re-recorded versions of fan-favorites, the EP captures the raw energy and humor that have become synonymous with The Dictators’ name.

The EP features the band’s core lineup, with Handsome Dick Manitoba on lead vocals, Ross “The Boss” Friedman on lead guitar, Andy Shernoff on bass and backing vocals, and Scott “Top Ten” Kempner on rhythm guitar. J.P. “Thunderbolt” Patterson provides the driving drum work that anchors the release. The titular track, “The Next Big Thing,” is reimagined with a fresh intensity, while other cuts revisit the band’s earlier material, blending nostalgia with renewed vigor.

Although compact, The Next Big Thing EP garnered praise for its unapologetic spirit and gritty production. It served as a reminder of The Dictators’ pivotal role in shaping punk rock’s sound and attitude, bridging their past with the modern rock landscape.