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Bad Religion

Bad Religion is an American punk rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1980.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Bad Religion is an American punk rock band formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1980. The band is known for its melodic punk style, socially conscious lyrics, and the Crossbuster logo. Founding members included Greg Graffin, Jay Bentley, Brett Gurewitz, and Jay Ziskrout.

History

Bad Religion formed in the Los Angeles area in 1980 and built an early underground reputation through releases such as Suffer, No Control, Against the Grain, and Generator. The band later signed to Atlantic Records and expanded its audience with Recipe for Hate.

Music and style

The band is identified with punk rock, hardcore punk, and melodic hardcore. Its songs are noted for articulate lyrics and social commentary.

Logo and identity

Bad Religion’s Crossbuster logo became one of its most recognizable symbols. The band name and imagery were developed while the members were still teenagers.

Members and lineup

Greg Graffin has been the band’s lead vocalist and only constant member. Other core figures have included Jay Bentley and Brett Gurewitz.

Key facts

  • Bad Religion formed in Los Angeles in 1980 with four high school students.
  • The band released its debut EP in 1981 and its first full-length album in 1982.
  • Bad Religion is known for politically and socially themed lyrics.
  • Brett Gurewitz founded and owned Epitaph Records.
  • The Crossbuster logo is the band's most recognizable symbol.
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Canadian context

Bad Religion has influenced Canadian punk and alternative rock audiences and is part of the broader North American punk scene that Canadian listeners and musicians have followed closely.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of band is Bad Religion?
Bad Religion is an American punk rock band, also associated with hardcore punk and melodic hardcore.
When was Bad Religion formed?
It was formed in 1980 in Los Angeles, California.
Who founded Bad Religion?
The original lineup included Greg Graffin, Jay Bentley, Brett Gurewitz, and Jay Ziskrout.
What is Bad Religion’s best-known symbol?
Its best-known symbol is the Crossbuster logo.
What was Bad Religion’s first release?
Its first release was a self-titled six-song EP in 1981.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bad_Religion
    Supports: Formation in 1980, Los Angeles origin, founding members, first EP, debut album, Epitaph Records
  2. The Complete History of Bad Religion — https://www.thebrpage.net/theband/history.html
    Supports: Band name origin, Crossbuster logo background, early history
  3. BBC Radio 1 — https://www.bbc.co.uk/radio1/mostpunk/profiles/bad_religion.shtml
    Supports: Formation in 1980, lineup, name origin, lyrical style
  4. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Graffin
    Supports: Greg Graffin as lead vocalist and only constant member
  5. Forbes — https://www.forbes.com/sites/derekscancarelli/2020/09/28/40-years-of-bad-religion-vocalist-greg-graffin-on-science-deniers-garage-days-and-bands-inner-strife/
    Supports: Band longevity, 40-year history, continued activity