Violent Femmes are an influential American folk punk band from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, known for their raw sound and witty songwriting. Formed in the early 1980s by Gordon Gano and Brian Ritchie, they were joined in later years by Blaise Garza and John Sparrow. The group played a key role in shaping the underground folk punk and alternative rock scenes of the 1980s, inspiring a wide range of genres including indie rock, grunge, and pop punk. Their 1983 debut album, featuring enduring tracks like Blister in the Sun, Kiss Off, and Add It Up, achieved platinum status and remains a cult favorite. Over their career, Violent Femmes have released ten studio albums and several hit singles, with later work including We Can Do Anything and Hotel Last Resort. Their lineup has seen changes, especially among drummers, but Gano and Ritchie have remained at the core. Violent Femmes' honest lyrics and spirited energy continue to influence modern rock music.