Me First And The Gimme Gimmes are a punk rock cover band and supergroup formed in Los Angeles, California. The band has carved a unique and enduring niche by exclusively performing fast, energetic punk versions of pop, rock, and folk classics, releasing a series of popular albums since the mid-1990s.
The band was formed in 1995 as a side project by Fat Mike, the bassist and vocalist of NOFX. The lineup quickly solidified as a supergroup featuring members of prominent California punk acts, including Spike Slawson (Swingin' Utters) on vocals, Joey Cape (Lagwagon) and Chris Shiflett (later of Foo Fighters) on guitar, and Dave Raun (Lagwagon) on drums. Their debut release was the 1995 7-inch single "Denise" / "Rocket Man" on Fat Mike's own label, Fat Wreck Chords.
The band's full-length debut album, Have a Ball, arrived in 1997 and established their signature formula of transforming soft rock and pop songs into blistering punk anthems. This release and its 1999 follow-up, Are a Drag, which focused on show tunes, cemented their cult status and consistent sales within the punk scene, making them a staple of the Fat Wreck Chords roster.
Over the Rainbow — This explosive take on the Judy Garland standard became an instant live favorite and a definitive example of their genre-bending style.
Uptown Girl — Their punk rendition of Billy Joel's hit showcased their ability to inject new energy into well-known pop songs, broadening their appeal.
Science Fiction/Double Feature — The opening track from Are a Drag highlighted their thematic album approach and love for theatrical source material.
I Believe I Can Fly — Their cover of R. Kelly's ballad demonstrated their humorous and irreverent approach to contemporary hits in the late 1990s.
Country Roads — This high-speed version of John Denver's folk classic remains one of their most recognizable and frequently played tracks.
The band continued their thematic album streak with Blow in the Wind (2001), focusing on folk songs, and Take a Break (2003), covering R&B and soul. Their rotating lineup has included notable musicians like Jay Bentley of Bad Religion, while maintaining a relentless touring schedule known for its chaotic and celebratory live shows. They have released albums on Fat Wreck Chords consistently, including Have Another Ball (2008) and Rake It In: The Greatestest Hits (2021).
Fans of Me First And The Gimme Gimmes' raucous punk spirit and melodic sensibilities also enjoy NOFX. This is the foundational band of founder Fat Mike, sharing a similar skate punk energy. The catchy, upbeat punk style is also found with Lagwagon. Several Gimmes members hail from this band, which shares a melodic California punk sound. For another supergroup with a humorous twist on classic rock, try Tenacious D. This act also features high-energy covers and a comedic rock approach. The tradition of punk covers and irreverent attitude is echoed by The Ramones. This iconic band frequently covered pop songs in their signature punk style.
RADIO ROTATION: The music of Me First And The Gimme Gimmes receives regular airplay on a variety of radio formats, particularly on modern rock stations and specialty punk shows. Their recognizable covers and high-energy performances make them a perfect fit for alternative rock radio stations and online rock radio streams looking to engage a knowledgeable punk audience.
You can discover the raucous catalog of Me First And The Gimme Gimmes by tuning into the punk and alternative rock stations featured right here on onairium.com. Our curated selection of independent music radio stations ensures you can hear their iconic
