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Davey Havok

Davey Havok is an American singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of AFI.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Davey Havok is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of AFI. He has also performed with Blaqk Audio, XTRMST, Dreamcar, and Son of Sam, and has worked in other creative fields including acting and fashion design.

Early life

Havok was born in Rochester, New York, and later moved to Ukiah, California. Public biographies identify his birth name as David Paden Passaro, later David Paden Marchand.

Music career

He formed AFI in 1991 and became its lead singer. He later expanded into side projects and collaborations spanning punk, electronic, hardcore, and new wave styles.

Other work

Outside music, Havok has been credited as an actor and author, and he has also been associated with fashion and design work.

Personal views

Several biographies describe Havok as an advocate of straight edge and veganism.

Public image

Coverage of Havok often emphasizes his versatility across genres and projects, along with his influence in alternative music scenes.

Key facts

  • Davey Havok is the stage name of David Paden Marchand, who was born David Paden Passaro.
  • He is the lead vocalist of AFI, a rock band formed in 1991.
  • He has also been part of Blaqk Audio, XTRMST, and Dreamcar.
  • He provided lead vocals for Son of Sam's debut album.
  • He has also worked in acting and fashion-related projects.
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Canadian context

Davey Havok is relevant to Canadian readers through the international alternative rock and punk scenes, especially AFI's long-standing influence and touring presence in Canada.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Davey Havok?
Davey Havok is an American singer and songwriter best known as the lead vocalist of AFI.
What is Davey Havok's real name?
His birth name is listed as David Paden Passaro, and later as David Paden Marchand in multiple biographies.
What band is Davey Havok in?
He is best known for AFI and has also been associated with Blaqk Audio, XTRMST, Dreamcar, and Son of Sam.
When was Davey Havok born?
He was born on November 20, 1975.
Where was Davey Havok born?
He was born in Rochester, New York, U.S.
What is Davey Havok known for besides AFI?
He has worked on side projects, voiced fictional music in animation, and taken part in acting and fashion-related work.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Davey_Havok
    Supports: Birth name, birth date, birthplace, origin, occupations, years active, and major music projects.
  2. AllMusic — https://www.allmusic.com/artist/davey-havok-mn0000737571
    Supports: Biography summary and his roles in AFI, Blaqk Audio, XTRMST, and Dreamcar.
  3. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0369898/
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, and music/acting career information.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0369898/bio/
    Supports: Biography details including birth name and early AFI formation.
  5. Wikipedia — https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Davey_Havok
    Supports: Alternative-language biographical details and associated projects.
  6. Wikiquote — https://en.wikiquote.org/wiki/Davey_Havok
    Supports: Publicly described personal views such as straight edge and veganism.
  7. Apple Music — https://music.apple.com/ug/artist/davey-havok/1569386682
    Supports: Career overview, genre range, collaborations, and other creative work.
  8. Pantheon — https://pantheon.world/profile/person/Davey_Havok
    Supports: Consolidated biography and project list, including Son of Sam and Harvey Girls Forever!.