Dead Kennedys are a seminal San Francisco punk rock band known for their scathing political lyrics and frenetic energy; fronted by Jello Biafra in their classic lineup, they helped define American hardcore punk in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Songs like "California Über Alles" and "Holiday in Cambodia" remain influential staples in punk rock history.
Dead Kennedys formed in San Francisco in 1978, bringing together Jello Biafra, East Bay Ray, Klaus Flouride and drummer Ted to fuse punk fury with political satire
Practice Questions
Q:Has Dead Kennedys reunited since breaking up?
A:Yes, they reunited in 2001 without Jello Biafra.
The band reformed with alternate vocalists in 2001, prompting debates among fans and continuing tours, but lacking Biafra's original voice and political persona.
Q:Was any album artwork controversial?
A:Yes, Frankenchrist artwork led to obscenity charges.
The Frankenchrist album included controversial H.R. Giger imagery, sparking an obscenity trial that raised free speech and censorship issues in music.