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Misfits (band)

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

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

Misfits are an American punk rock band formed in Lodi, New Jersey, in 1977 by Glenn Danzig. They are widely associated with the development of horror punk, a style that combines punk rock with horror-themed imagery and lyrics. The band has had numerous lineup changes and periods of breakup and reunion.

History

Misfits formed in Lodi, New Jersey, in 1977 around Glenn Danzig. Sources describe an initial run through the early 1980s, a breakup in 1983, and later reunions and lineup changes. The original era of the band ended in 1983, followed later by reunions and continued activity under the Misfits name.

Musical style

The band is associated with punk rock and especially horror punk, a subgenre that blends punk with horror-film themes and imagery. Several sources also describe their influence on hardcore punk and heavy metal.

Cultural influence

Misfits developed a strong cult reputation and are frequently described as influential on later punk and metal bands. Their visual identity, lyrics, and merchandising helped shape horror punk as a recognizable subgenre. The group built a cult following through its imagery, live performances, and fan community known as the Fiend Club.

Band members

Glenn Danzig was the original singer and central creative figure, while Jerry Only became another key long-term member. The lineup changed repeatedly over the band's history, with later reunions involving former members.

Key facts

  • The band was formed in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey, by Glenn Danzig.
  • Its name was taken from Marilyn Monroe's final film, The Misfits (1961).
  • Misfits are commonly identified with horror punk and are cited as an important influence on later punk and metal acts.
  • The original era of the band ended in 1983, followed later by reunions and continued activity under the Misfits name.
  • The group built a cult following through its imagery, live performances, and fan community known as the Fiend Club.
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Canadian context

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.

Frequently asked questions

What kind of band are the Misfits?
They are an American punk rock band most closely associated with horror punk.
Where did the Misfits form?
The band formed in Lodi, New Jersey, in the United States.
Who founded the Misfits?
Glenn Danzig formed the band in 1977.
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.

References

  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.