Bad Music For Bad People

A DC monument: The Cramps’ classic Bad Music for Bad People LP cover has its origins in the old 9:30 basement. Beginning in the late 1970s, The Cramps developed a large cult fan base in Washington, DC for a variety of reasons: our proximity to NYC, true champions in the music press (Joe Sasfy, Howard Wuelfing), regular college radio play at WGTB and WMUC, simpatico bands to play with (Slickee Boys, Tex Rubinowitz), but most notably, a series of unforgettable performances at the LBJ Club, Psyche Delly, Ontario Theater, and the Hall of Nations at Georgetown University. The Cramps became one of our own, and to this day are credited with altering the musical paths of many lives, including yours truly. (Outrageous Music Festival at Warner Theater in May 1979, Root Boy Slim didn’t have a chance).

The Cramps also launched concert promotion company I.M.P. as the first headliner they ever booked on May 29, 1980. Unfortunately, the band never showed up (and you can read about it here under “What happened when Sam gave up the Ontario?”) But 37 years ago today they did make it back, on a four band show that included Teen Idles, soon to spawn Minor Threat… read more >