The B'52's are an American new wave band that emerged in the mid-70s with their quirky, fun sound. They started out in Athens, Georgia in 1976. Ricky Wilson and Keith Strickland, who were already friends, joined up with Ricky's sister Cindy Wilson & Fred Schneider and Kate Pierson through mutual friends. They adopted the name The B-52's from local slang for high-rise beehive hairdos.
Their popularity began to spead and their debut single 'Rock Lobster' was released in February 1978. It was instantly popular and became one of the first independent hits in the American new wave scene. In 1980, John Lennon called the B-52's his favorite band, and specifically cited "Rock Lobster" as an inspiration for his comeback with Double Fantasy.
The band continued to have a string of hits that drew from 50s & 60s pop culture and rock & roll and created their unique, kitschy style. Ricky Wilson died from AIDS-related illness in 1985, and Strickland switched from drums to lead guitar. The band progressed by added touring members for albums and live performances.
Browse our unique collection of B-52's photos and prints below
