The Dickies

The Dickies are a punk rock group from Los Angeles, active from 1977 to the present. They are among the first punk bands to emerge from Los Angeles, and the first California punk group to sign to a major record label and appear on network television.

Style and early reputation

The band’s sound is punk and punk rock with a camp, humorous approach, and it draws clear influence from the Ramones. They become especially popular in the United Kingdom.

Notable songs and themes

In 1979, they reach the UK top 10 with “Banana Splits (Tra La La Song)”. Their songs often focus on Southern California life, including “Waterslide”, “I’m A Chollo”, “Manny, Moe and Jack”, and “(I’m Stuck in a Pagoda with) Tricia Toyota”, the last of which refers to a local television news anchor.

Work in film

In 1988, they provide the theme music for the cult film Killer Klowns from Outer Space.

Later activity

The band’s activity slows in the 1980s because of drug problems, but they continue to play and record intermittently.