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The Misfits

The 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 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The 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 blends punk rock with horror-film imagery and themes. The band has gone through many lineup changes and periods of inactivity, but remains influential in punk and metal circles.

History

The Misfits formed in February 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey. The band was named after Marilyn Monroe's final film, The Misfits (1961). The original run of the band lasted until 1983, during which they developed a cult following. After a period of inactivity, the band saw later reunions and reformations.

Musical style

The Misfits are widely associated with the development of horror punk, a style that blends punk rock with horror-film imagery and themes. Their music is characterized by fast tempos, aggressive delivery, and lyrical themes drawn from horror films and B-movies.

Influence and legacy

The Misfits have developed a cult following and are considered highly influential in punk and metal circles. Their horror punk style has been cited as an influence by many notable bands, including Metallica, Megadeth, AFI, and Green Day. The band has also had a strong influence on Canadian punk and metal listeners through their cult status and horror-punk style.

Lineup changes and reunions

The Misfits have experienced numerous lineup changes throughout their history. Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only were key early members, along with Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein. After the original breakup in 1983, the band was revived multiple times with different lineups, including reunions that have kept the band active.

Key facts

  • The Misfits formed in Lodi, New Jersey, in 1977.
  • They are pioneers of horror punk.
  • The band's name comes from Marilyn Monroe's film The Misfits.
  • The original run ended in 1983.
  • They have a cult following and have influenced many punk and metal bands.
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Canadian context

The Misfits have had a strong influence on Canadian punk and metal listeners through their cult status and horror-punk style, although the band itself is American and not Canada-based.

Frequently asked questions

Who are The Misfits?
The Misfits are an American punk rock band from Lodi, New Jersey, formed in 1977 by Glenn Danzig.
What genre are The Misfits associated with?
They are associated with punk rock and are widely credited as pioneers of horror punk.
Where did the band get its name?
The band took its name from Marilyn Monroe's final film, The Misfits (1961).
When were The Misfits formed?
Most sources place their formation in 1977, with some specifying February or April of that year.
Are The Misfits still active?
Yes. The band has continued through reunions and later lineups, although its membership has changed often.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misfits_(band)
    Supports: Formation in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey, and name origin from Marilyn Monroe's film.
  2. Official Misfits Bio — https://www.misfits.com/info/
    Supports: Band origin, formation in Lodi, New Jersey, and continuing legacy/status.
  3. Wikipedia (German) — https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misfits_(Band)
    Supports: Description of the band as an influential horror punk group and its impact.
  4. IMDb — https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2127225/bio/
    Supports: Formation details, early lineup, and identification as an early horror punk band.
  5. MusicianGuide — https://www.musicianguide.com/biographies/1608002897/The-Misfits.html
    Supports: Alternative formation date in 1977 and early release history.
  6. Louder Sound — https://www.loudersound.com/music/albums/misfits-static-age-story-behind-the-album
    Supports: Early album history, 1977 origins, cult status, and influence.
  7. Punk Wiki - Fandom — https://punk.fandom.com/wiki/Misfits
    Supports: Horror punk classification, origin, and naming detail.