Spotlight: Dead Kennedys Returning to New Zealand in September

Californian pioneers of unapologetically politically scorching punk rock, the music of Dead Kennedys feels critically relevant to our turbulent current era. Formed in 1978 and still featuring co-founders East Bay Ray — who innovatively bridged surf, punk and rockabilly on the group's early recordings — and bassist Klaus Flouride, with vocalist from '08 onwards Ron “Skip” Greer and new recruit Steve Wilson on drums (longterm drummer D.H. Peligro passed in '22), Dead Kennedys will be back in Aotearoa New Zealand next month, playing their first local headline dates in seven years at Auckland's Powerstation and Wellington's Meow Nui.

Responsible for such hands down classics as 'Holiday In Cambodia', 'Police Truck', 'California Über Alles' 'Nazi Punks Fuck Off' and countless more, listen up to their newly released The Rich Eat You (Live San Francisco '81), rally the troops, and turn out in force for Dead Kennedys' mighty return — brought to you by SBM Presents...

Dead Kennedys

Tuesday 16th September - Powerstation, Auckland
Wednesday 17th September - Meow Nui, Wellington

Tickets on sale at sbmpresents.com/tour/dead-kennedys/

Here's Dead Kennedys' still relevant 1981 anthem 'Nazi Punks Fuck Off'...

Press release:

American punk rock band Dead Kennedys return to Australia and New Zealand this September for their first tour in seven years, bringing their politically charged anthems and raw energy back to the stage.

Known for their blistering live performances and sharp social commentary, the band will deliver a series of high-intensity shows across both countries.

Fans can expect a setlist featuring classics such as Holiday in Cambodia, California Über Alles, and Kill the Poor, alongside deeper cuts and fan favourites.

With a career spanning over four decades, Dead Kennedys remain a defining force in punk rock. Their satirical lyrics and unfiltered sound continue to resonate, challenging the status quo as they have since their formation in San Francisco in 1978.

The current lineup features original members East Bay Ray (guitar) and Klaus Flouride (bass), alongside vocalist Ron “Skip” Greer, who has fronted the band since 2008, and drummer Steve Wilson, who joined following the passing of longtime drummer D.H. Peligro in 2022.

Touring has long been central to Dead Kennedys’ identity, and their upcoming run through Australia and New Zealand continues their commitment to delivering high-energy performances that remain as urgent as ever.