(Artist Report)

Written by: Cody Denning 

If you grew up in the late 90s, early 2000s then yo may have heard the CKY. The edgy American rock band from West Chester, Pennsylvania, with its genre-defying sound, raw energy, and unapologetic attitude. Known for their ties to the skateboarding through drummer Jess Margera’s brother, Bam Margera, CKY has evolved from underground heroes to becoming a well known name in the rock community.

The band’s core lineup, historically centered around vocalist/guitarist Deron Miller, guitarist Chad I Ginsburg, and drummer Jess Margera, has seen shifts over the years. Since Miller’s departure in 2011, Ginsburg has stepped up as frontman, with Margera and touring bassist Ronnie Elvis James (joining in 2023) rounding out the current roster. Despite changes, CKY’s commitment to their craft remains, blending elements of alternative rock, stoner metal, post-grunge, and hard rock into a sound that’s distinctly their own.

CKY first burst onto the scene with their 1999 debut album, ”Volume 1”, a raw and eclectic record that gained traction through its inclusion in Bam Margera’s “CKY” video series and later the Jackass TV show. Tracks like “96 Quite Bitter Beings” became anthems, resonating with a generation of skaters, misfits, and music fans. The album’s gritty production, helmed by Ginsburg, captured the band’s early hunger, while its storytelling—often revolving around fictional narratives like the cursed town of Hellview added a layer of intrigue.

Following their debut, CKY signed with Island/Def Jam, releasing “Infiltrate•Destroy•Rebuild” in 2002, which marked their first taste of U.S. chart success. The album’s polished yet aggressive sound showcased the band’s growth, with songs like “Flesh Into Gear” and “Escape from Hellview” earning critical praise. Their 2005 release, “An Answer Can Be Found”, and 2009’s concept-driven “Carver City” further solidified their reputation for pushing boundaries, even as internal struggles and lineup changes loomed.

In 2017, CKY came back with “The Phoenix”, their first album as a three-piece, recorded at Rancho De La Luna in Joshua Tree, California. Released under Entertainment One Music, the album was a testament to the band’s resilience, with tracks like “Head for a Breakdown” The band followed up with the 2018 EP “Too Precious to Kill”, keeping their momentum rolling.

CKY’s fanbase, known as the CKY Alliance, has been a driving force behind their longevity. Described as fiercely loyal, fans have championed the band through thick and thin, from sold-out tours to grassroots campaigns. Their connection to skate and extreme sports culture, amplified by “Jackass” and Bam Margera’s antics, has kept CKY relevant across generations, bridging music and lifestyle in a way few bands achieve.

The band has not been without controversy. Recent reports of an altercation involving Ginsburg during a 2024 tour sparked headlines, but CKY has always thrived on their outsider ethos, channeling chaos into creativity. As they look to the future, fans eagerly await news of new music, with whispers of studio sessions circulating among the Alliance.

More recently, In 2025, It’s been told that CKY’s music will be featured in the new remaster of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 coming July 11th.

CKY’s live shows are still to this day an insane experience, blending a no-holds-barred attitude with a family like feeling. From their early days on the Warped Tour to headlining venues worldwide, they’ve proven time and again that themselves to be a great part of skate culture and rock music.

That does it for this report, thank you so much for reading and rocking with us! Buy Soundwave merchandise and support what we do!! 🤘

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