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September 11, 2026Short & citedBlog
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Music Box • Band

Misfits (band)

Misfits are an American punk rock band formed in Lodi, New Jersey, in 1977 by Glenn Danzig.

Updated September 11, 20261 min readCited sources

Misfits are an American punk rock band formed in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey. They are widely credited as pioneers of horror punk.

What it is

Misfits are a punk rock band founded by Glenn Danzig in 1977. Their name comes from Marilyn Monroe's final film, The Misfits. The band blends punk rock with horror-themed imagery and lyrics, creating the subgenre known as horror punk. Their early run ended in 1983, but reunions and lineup changes have kept the band active.

Why it matters

Misfits are considered a foundational influence on horror punk and have shaped later punk and metal acts. Their cult following, built through distinctive visuals, live shows, and the Fiend Club fan community, helped define a lasting subculture. Their impact extends across North America, including Canadian punk and metal audiences.

Key details

The band formed in Lodi, New Jersey. Glenn Danzig was the original singer and creative force; Jerry Only became another key long-term member. The lineup changed frequently. Misfits are often cited as an influence on hardcore punk and heavy metal, and their horror-themed style remains iconic.

In short

  • Formed in 1977 by Glenn Danzig in Lodi, New Jersey.
  • Pioneered horror punk with horror-themed lyrics and imagery.
  • Original era ended in 1983; later reunions and lineup changes.
  • Cult following through Fiend Club and influence on punk/metal.
Canadian angle

Misfits have had influence on Canadian punk and metal audiences through the broader North American punk scene, and their horror-punk style has been referenced by Canadian listeners and musicians. A specific Canada-only connection is not prominent in the supplied sources.

Quick questions

What kind of band are the Misfits?
They are an American punk rock band most closely associated with horror punk.
Why are they called the Misfits?
The name comes from Marilyn Monroe's final film, The Misfits.
Why are the Misfits important?
They are widely credited as one of the defining bands of horror punk and as an influence on later punk and metal acts.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misfits_(band)
    Supports: Formation in Lodi, New Jersey, in 1977; name origin from The Misfits (1961).
  2. Misfits official website — https://www.misfits.com/info/
    Supports: Band origin, 1977 formation in Lodi, New Jersey, and Fiend Club cult following.
  3. Musician Guide — https://www.musicianguide.com/biographies/1608002897/The-Misfits.html
    Supports: Formation in Lodi, New Jersey; early releases and label history.
  4. Wikipedia (German) — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misfits_(Band)
    Supports: Description as a pioneering horror punk band and influence on punk and metal.
  5. Wikipedia (Spanish) — https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misfits_(banda)
    Supports: Band described as an influential horror punk and hardcore punk group formed by Glenn Danzig.
  6. Last.fm — https://www.last.fm/music/Misfits/+wiki?ver=63
    Supports: Original leadership by Glenn Danzig, Jerry Only as an early key member, and later revival under the Misfits name.
  7. MisfitsCentral — https://www.misfitscentral.com/misfits/timeline.php
    Supports: Early timeline and naming after Marilyn Monroe's final movie.