Formed in early 1977, The Misfits took the band name from Marilyn Monroe’s last film and in fact, thanked the cast of the movie on the back of their first record. The founding members were: Glenn Danzig on vocals and electric piano, Jerry Caiafa (Jerry Only) on bass, and Manny on drums. Their first release on their own label, Blank Records, didn’t reflect the characteristic anger and rebellion of most “punk” records, but instead a more brooding and sinister, yet romantic side lingering beneath. Following the single, Danzig and Only recruited a new drummer and added a guitar player and pursued the horror-based punk rock direction that they are known for. Danzig and Only presided over several line up changes, eventually culminating with Jerry’s younger brother, Paul (aka Doyle) becoming the band’s permanent guitarist.

The original Misfits broke up in October 1983, having released several 7″ singles and 12″ records, all of which were DIY limited-edition and most of which were hand-assembled by the band, that have long been considered prime collectors’ items. The bulk of the band’s material was released on Glenn’s Plan 9 label. The band’s popularity grew exponentially following their split and their material and tapes of their live shows were heavily bootlegged.

Official Releases – This index features only vinyl and includes material released by the original band between 1977 and 1983

Unofficial Releases – This index features only vinyl and includes recordings of the original band

Online Resources

Fiend Collectors – database and marketplace

Misfits Central – database and marketplace

Misfits Collectors – database of official 7″ vinyl with images