Black Flag
Upcoming concerts and tickets

Black Flag is a seminal American hardcore punk band formed in 1976 in Hermosa Beach, California. Established by guitarist and primary songwriter Greg Ginn, the group became the definitive architects of the hardcore movement. While the band underwent numerous personnel changes throughout its history, Ginn remained the sole continuous member and the driving force behind its uncompromising creative direction.

The band’s early years were marked by a succession of influential vocalists who each left a distinct mark on the punk landscape. Keith Morris served as the original lead singer, appearing on the band's earliest recordings before departing in 1979 to form the Circle Jerks. He was followed by Ron Reyes, whose tenure was brief but impactful. When Reyes left, Dez Cadena took over vocal duties; however, Cadena eventually transitioned to second guitar to accommodate the arrival of Henry Rollins in 1981. Rollins, a fan from Washington D.C., became the band’s longest-serving and most iconic vocalist during their initial run.

Beyond their musical output, Black Flag is revered for establishing the "do-it-yourself" (DIY) aesthetic that would define independent music for decades. Rather than seeking mainstream approval, the band focused on tireless self-promotion and a relentless touring schedule across North America and Europe. They were instrumental in developing a grassroots network of venues and promoters, proving that underground bands could survive and thrive outside the traditional record label system. Their work with SST Records helped flourish a movement of independent labels that supported the burgeoning 1980s punk scene.