Through the use of horror movie themes and dark, gothic fashion, hardcore punk band The Misfits helped create the sub-genre known as horror-punk. Formed by Glenn Danzig in 1977, the group went through many line-up changes and experiments with style before releasing their debut album in 1982. In that time they had released several singles and EPs and toured regularly, slowly building a fanbase. Walk Among Us was never a commercial success, but it was heralded by fans as a punk classic and has become established as a landmark in underground punk. The band developed a reputation for chaotic and exciting live shows, but Danzig was becoming unhappy with the band. Earth A.D. was released in December 1983, but by that time the Misfits had already split up.

In 1995, original bassist Jerry Only decided to resurrect the Misfits, even though Danzig wasn't interested in re-joining. There is some controversy among Misfits fans about whether this new incarnation is worthy of the name, since many see Danzig's involvement as crucial. Under Only's stewardship and with a new lead singer, American Psycho (1997) and Famous Monsters (1999) were both fairly well received, and the band began to make cameo appearances in support of World Championship Wrestler Vampiro. Eventually this caused more problems and arguments within the band, which split, re-formed, and split again in 2000. A version of the Misfits continues to perform intermittently today, and plans to release a new album in 2008.