Social Distortion (sometimes referred to simply as
Social D) is an
American rock band formed in 1978 in
Fullerton, California.
[2] The band currently consists of
Mike Ness (vocals, guitars),
Jonny Wickersham (guitars),
Brent Harding (bass) and
Adam "Atom" Willard (drums). They are often credited as one of the leading bands of the 1980s
hardcore punk explosion.
The group briefly disbanded in 1985, due to frontman Ness' drug addiction, but reformed around 1986 and have continued being active today, even after the death of longtime guitarist Dennis Danell, who succumbed to a brain aneurysm in 2000. Since their inception the band lineup has been a virtual revolving-door of talent, with many members coming and going – Ness has been the only constant member.
Among mainstream audiences, Social Distortion are best known for their hit singles "Ball and Chain", "Story of My Life", "I Was Wrong" and "Reach for the Sky" as well as a cover of Johnny Cash's "Ring of Fire."
To date, Social Distortion has released six full-length studio albums, two compilations, one live album and two DVDs. Their most recent studio album, Sex, Love and Rock 'n' Roll, came out on September 28, 2004. They also released their first Greatest Hits compilation on June 26, 2007. Social Distortion is currently writing a new studio album, which is due for release in 2010.[3]
