In the fall of '06, Violent Hippie became a band. Only dancing around as a concept in the brains of Chris Cady and Tommy the Silent for quite sometime, they were joined by longtime friend and drummer, Shawn Funk, and thus Violent Hippie was born. Taking influence from classic punk, modern psychedelia, roots and surf rock, Violent Hippie prides itself as a unique band with a unique sound- a minimalist group with no bass player, and plenty of rock.
Since the band's inception, it has shared stages and opened for many major acts including Trampled by Turtles, Papa Mali, Pert Near Sandstone, the Clumsy Lovers, the Donnas, and many others. After a year of live shows, Violent Hippie recorded its first studio effort in April/May of 2008. Intentions were to release the LP in late October and campaign this fall with live support tours. Shawn Funk passed away on September 11th unexpectedly and tragically striking a horse with his car late at night on his way home. Many questions have been wrestled with in continuing with the band, its name, the finished album, and Shawn's spirit.
Violent Hippie's first album "smokethisbaby" will be released in January of '09, and live support tours throughout the spring and summer are in the works with Jeff Ringle as the new drummer. Not expecting something to present itself so quickly, Violent Hippie started having rehearsals again at the beginning of October, and are preparing for live shows and tours. By continuing on and doing our thing, we honor Shawn and his spirit- for he will always be a part of the spirit of this band- and to anyone who has a criticism of that, Violent Hippie says "Please have an open heart, and let those who were close to Shawn be the barometer of what is honoring to Shawn, and the answers that feel right after a difficult,contemplative season. Shawn was all about the music, and would not want us to quit."
A DVD is in the making as well, and should see a spring '09 release.
Many thanks to all our fans, friends, family, and Black Hills community for their incredible outpouring of support, heartfelt words and gestures through this crazy fall season. And our condolences to Mom and Dad Funk...we love you and your son always...
There is currently a search for two types of bands for record label consideration.
*** Note: PLEASE IDENTIFY IF YOU ARE IN GROUP 1 OR 2 IN YOUR RESPONSE. Emails are being reviewed by different representatives.
1. A Pop/Rock/Commercial band with female lead. Band must consist of 2 guitars (Prefer both guitar players to be of lead caliber. However, one lead and one rhythm is acceptable), keyboard/piano, bass, and drums. Lead vocal, followed by backing vocals, in that order, is a plus as it relates to other members of the group. Average age of the band cannot exceed 28 years of age.
* Group must have an outstanding lead vocalist. ** Musicianship throughout the entire band must be very strong. *** Group cannot currently be under any contract of any type that is related to the music industry.
2. A Modern Rock band with male lead. Must be a complete band but there are no prerequisites as it relates to the make up of the band. Average age of the band cannot exceed 23 years of age.
* Group must have an outstanding lead vocalist. ** Musicianship throughout the entire band must be very strong. *** Group cannot currently be under any contract of any type that is related to the music industry.
XXX - If you meet the minimum qualifications as described above. Email a link for your MySpace Page and if applicable, a link for your website to: recordingartistsearch@gmail.com
Only send one email with your links. Due to the volume of responses normally received for these types of opportunities. After review of your material, you will only be contacted if there is an interest in attending one of your shows by a label representative. As such please to not send any follow up emails regarding selections. If you were not contacted back, there was not an interest.
ayo if ya get some freetime checkout my 605 mixtape cd album pics.. the biggest mixtape in the 605 state from rapid city to sufizzy is coming out this fall... Plus you can get a sneak peek by listening to the full version of the songs on my page October 1st!!!...... spread the word out to yah friends.... im bout to make noise in this state real talk. good lookin out.100
Hey Violent Hippie, what's happening? how's your summer going? hope you're digging the beautiful weather - we've been grilling out because it's so nice here in Minneapolis!
We just released a new album Live at the Cabooze recorded in October 08 in Minneapolis, MN. You can get it on iTunes. Also, check out our Ts and stickers on our online Merch Store and help support us independent musicians! We're always on the road so if we're not coming to your city soon let us know and we will! (no seriously) Peace and love,
Hey guys, glad to see the shows up!! Ive been missing the hills like crazy the past few months....spearfish just kinda tugs at ones soul. Im proud of you for continuing your qwuest to RAWK and excited to hear the new joint!! ko meche wa bitches;)
You have our support in continuing as the Violent Hippie Band. We know Shawn will be with you in spirit every step of the way and this is what he would want you to do. Thank you for everything you have done for us. Mom and Dad Funk
