Dead Kennedys are an American punk rock band that formed in San Francisco, California, in 1978. The band was one of the defining punk bands during its initial eight-year run.
Dead Kennedys’ lyrics were usually political in nature, satirizing political figures and authority in general, as well as popular culture and even the punk movement itself. During their initial incarnation between 1978 and 1986, they attracted considerable controversy for their provocative lyrics and artwork.
The group released a total of four studio albums and one EP before disbanding in 1986. In 2001, the band reformed without founding vocalist Jello Biafra; various singers have since been recruited for vocal duties.